Residents including participants, boat owners, and mariners are asked to exercise caution and adhere to all safety measure during the Poker Run festivities on May 27.

Acting Director for the Virgin Islands Shipping Registry and Receiver of Wrecks, Captain Raman Bala said the safety of the users of the Territory’s pristine waters is of utmost importance.

He said, “Apart from sailing and power boating, the BVI is host to various water sports activities such as swimming, snorkeling, paddle boarding, diving, surfing, kite surfing, etc. Therefore, safety measure must be strictly observed to avoid any accident or incident.”

All participants are to operate only within the designated area during the competition. These include: Leverick Bay, Virgin Gorda; Scrub Island Marina; Great Harbour, Jost Van Dyke; The Bight Bay, Norman Island; and Road Habour, Tortola.

Participants are also asked to be on the lookout for other users of the Territory’s waterways. Additionally, all boats should be fit for purpose and outfitted with the necessary equipment for safe navigation.           

The public and other water users are reminded to be aware of boats going at full speed within the area of the Poker Run during the time of the races and avoid, if possible, water sport activities in the area of the Poker Run for the duration of the competition.

Persons can access more information on the Virgin Islands Shipping Registry’s safety alert, by visiting the registry’s page on www.bvi.gov.vg, or use the following direct link – http://bvi.gov.vg/sites/default/files/resources/poker_run_2018_safety_alert.pdf.

Photos attached:

1. Official poster for Poker Run 2018
2. Poker Run 2018 Safety Alert