I just got this email from Voyage Charters who are located in West End Soper's Hole,Tortola, BVI. Provided for those who are interested. . .

Quote
"It is 48 hours since Hurricane Irma impacted the British Virgin Islands and, as further information comes out, it is clear no part of the territory has been spared from the devastation. Both the Premier and Governor of the territory released statements confirming a State of Emergency is in effect and relief efforts will be co-ordinated under that basis.

http://www.bviddm.com/message-from-...th-obe-following-hurricane-irmas-impact/

Direct communication with the islands is very limited and, at this time, our US reservations office has not been able to establish a line of communication to VOYAGE charters BVI personnel but we are receiving some updates via a shared sat phone . We do know the base managers and families are accounted for and someone also reported seeing other base staff safe and well.

From what appears to be reliable source, an on the ground report from the vicinity of the VOYAGE charters BVI base in Sopers Hole, describes extensive structural damage to docks, buildings and vessels including the ship yard where some of the VOYAGE fleet were stored. Although it will be many days before detailed damage assessments can be made we can only assume that tourist travel and conduct of business by VOYAGE charters BVI, will not be possible for the commencement of the season in October.

For guests with departures in October, the cancelation clause of their charter contracts will apply. A decision on following months will be made over the next few days as information becomes available from the managers of VOYAGE charters BVI David Beavis, from the US reservations office, will travel down to Tortola as soon as services and conditions allow, in an effort to assist colleagues and obtain accurate information for our charter clients.

At this time, we have faith that the British Virgin Islands, it's tourist industry and VOYAGE charters BVI will be restored. We hope any of our clients affected by cancelation will consider rescheduling to a later date which will allow VOYAGE charters BVI to look to the future.

We have received many offers from our clients and friends who are ready and willing to travel to the islands to provide physical support. Whilst we are sure this help will be needed at sometime, travel and communication services are too limited at this time. In the interim please consider making a donation to the BVI relief efforts through one of the reputable aid organizations such as the British Red Cross."


Philip
USA #1006