WILLEMSTAD - Yachts that seek refuge in Curaçao’s Spanish Waters during the hurricane season are proving to be of limited financial benefit to the country. Caroline Manuel, Sector Director of Infrastructure and Spatial Planning at the Ministry of VVRP, has highlighted more negative consequences than positives associated with this practice.
Harbormaster Marlon la Roche further elaborated that the yachts contribute only a “minimal” amount in mooring fees. Additionally, there are issues with waste management from the boats, which complicates the situation further.
Manuel criticized the current yacht management policy as fragmented and lacking a cohesive strategy. “A single management entity could provide a solution,” she suggested. This entity would operate alongside the harbor master’s office, focusing on oversight and administrative coordination while ensuring that Spanish Waters are not damaged or polluted.