Bryan to Meet with USCG on STX-PR Shipping Halt

M.A. Dworkin

USVI - The U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) has agreed to meet with Governor Albert Bryan Jr. to address concerns over recent orders affecting the M/V Water Spirit II and BVI M/V Admirals Pride, two cargo vessels that help move food, refrigerated goods, vehicles, appliances, construction materials, industrial parts, and other essential items between Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands.

The issue involves Captain of the Port orders issued on April 30, 2026, directing the vessels to stop their current Mediterranean-style mooring operations at Pier 10 in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Governor Bryan is asking the Coast Guard to consider a temporary variance that would allow the vessels to continue while all parties work together on a safe, practical and lasting solution. 

Governor Bryan said the matter requires urgency because the affected vessels support a long-standing cargo route that grocery stores, small businesses, contractors, retailers, vehicle owners and families depend on every day. 

“We respect the Coast Guard’s authority and we share its commitment to maritime safety,” Governor Bryan said. “At the same time, we have to recognize the real-world impact this decision could have on the people of the Virgin Islands. This route moves food, refrigerated goods, vehicles, appliances, construction materials, industrial parts, and household items that our residents and businesses rely on. We are asking for a fair opportunity to work through the issue together without cutting off an essential service before a workable alternative is in place.”

Governor Bryan’s request focuses on two immediate steps: Allowing the vessels to continue operating temporarily while safety and mooring concerns are addressed, and bringing the appropriate parties to the table to identify a solution that is safe, practical and workable for all involved.

Congresswoman Plaskett has also been actively engaged on the critical issue.

“We all recognize this disruption poses a direct concern for Virgin Islands residents and businesses who depend on Water Spirit’s freight service for the timely movement of goods between St. Croix, St. Thomas, Tortola and San Juan,” the Congresswoman stated, noting that her office had reached out directly to the USCG and has remained in continuous contact with USCG and the Puerto Rico Ports Authority. 

The Governor said the issue is about more than vessel operations. It is about protecting a supply chain that affects the cost, availability and timely movement of goods across the Territory. Any sudden disruption, he said, could have consequences for residents waiting on household items, businesses filling orders, grocery stores stocking shelves and contractors trying to keep projects moving. 

Governor Bryan thanked the USCG Sector San Juan for its continued partnership and said he is encouraged that the Coast guard has agreed to meet with him to discuss  a path forward.