Union Island Ferry Terminal Set for Official Handover, Marking Major Post-Hurricane Beryl Recovery Milestone

New Ferry Terminal to Boost Union Island's Recovery

The new Union Island Ferry Terminal in Clifton, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, is scheduled for its official handover on Saturday, October 11, 2025. This event marks a crucial step in the island's ongoing recovery and infrastructure development following the widespread devastation caused by Hurricane Beryl in July 2024. The terminal is the largest of three new ferry facilities constructed across the Southern Grenadines, designed to enhance both commercial activity and travel convenience for residents and visitors.

Rebuilding After Hurricane Beryl's Impact

Hurricane Beryl made landfall on July 1, 2024, as a Category 4 storm, intensifying to a Category 5, and inflicting catastrophic damage across the Southern Grenadines. Union Island, along with Canouan and Mayreau, experienced the most severe impact, with reports indicating that 90-100% of homes were affected and over 90% of critical infrastructure was destroyed. The storm affected an estimated 56% of the population in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. The construction of the new ferry terminals is a central component of the government's comprehensive reconstruction program aimed at restoring essential services and livelihoods in the affected communities.

A Collaborative Infrastructure Development

The Union Island Ferry Terminal project is the result of a significant public-private partnership between the Government of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and British businessman Ian Wace's Gumbolimbo Group. Mr. Wace initially pledged US$5 million towards rebuilding efforts in the Southern Grenadines, later increasing his contribution to US$25 million. The Gumbolimbo Group is headed by John and Jessica Davidson. The state-of-the-art facility in Clifton will feature:

• A modern open-air market
• Dedicated retail spaces
• Comfortable passenger waiting areas

Similar ferry terminals were previously completed and commissioned at Saline Bay, Mayreau, and Grand Bay, Canouan, both officially opened on July 1, 2025, exactly one year after Hurricane Beryl's severe impact. Chevonne Stewart, Coordinator of Housing in the Southern Grenadines, appointed by the Government to assist with rebuilding efforts, has expressed optimism about the positive impact the new facility will have on the community.

Broader Recovery and Future Outlook

The handover ceremony is expected to be attended by Government officials, community leaders, and residents, underscoring the collective effort in the island's path towards recovery and renewal. This project is part of a wider initiative to rebuild and strengthen infrastructure across Union Island, which also includes ongoing efforts in airport repairs, hospital upgrades, school reconstruction, and housing development. The completion of the Union Island Ferry Terminal signifies not only a physical reconstruction but also a symbol of resilience and progress for the Southern Grenadines as they continue to rebuild and enhance climate resilience.