THE BOTTOM--Saba is moving closer to the future operation of Black Rocks Harbor, with island officials recently visiting St. Maarten to study how established port and marina operations manage security, berth allocation, commercial activity and cargo handling.
Commissioner Bruce Zagers, Harbourmaster Travis Johnson and Domain Manager Malinda Hassell took part in the working visit, which included discussions with IGY Marinas and Port St. Maarten Group. The visit was intended to give the Saba delegation practical insight that could be applied as preparations continue for the eventual operation of Black Rocks Harbor.
According to details published by Antilliaans Dagblad, at IGY Marinas, discussions focused on the management and operation of marinas and ports, including day-to-day operations, safety, berth management and commercial considerations. The publication reported that the delegation also looked at services and expertise that could become relevant once Black Rocks Harbor becomes operational.
The Saba delegation also visited Port St. Maarten Group, where attention shifted to cargo areas, the commercial pier, port operations and security. According toAntilliaans Dagblad, discussions included International Ship and Port Facility Security, ISPS, requirements that govern security at ports and port facilities.
The publication reported that Port St. Maarten indicated it is prepared to share its experience and provide advice as Saba develops the security arrangements for Black Rocks Harbor.
The cooperation is not entirely new. Port St. Maarten and Saba have discussed port operations and regional connectivity for years. Previous discussions have included port handling, operations, economic development and stronger inter-island connections, including the movement of goods and passengers between the islands.
For Saba, however, the current focus is becoming increasingly practical. Black Rocks Harbor will require more than physical infrastructure. The island will also need systems for security, vessel movements, commercial activity, berth management, staffing and daily operations.
That makes exposure to established operations in St. Maarten particularly relevant. Port St. Maarten has extensive experience handling cruise, cargo and inter-island activity, while the Simpson Bay Lagoon and surrounding marina sector have long served recreational vessels and large yachts.
The Black Rocks Harbor project is expected to provide Saba with additional maritime capacity and reduce some of the operational limitations associated with its existing harbor facilities. The recent visit also indicates that attention is now extending beyond construction and toward the question of how the facility will actually function once operational.
