By Delana Isles

THE PROJECT to remove the Mega One Triton shipwreck from Governor’s Beach in Grand Turk is now complete.





On Wednesday (March 11), the premier and Cabinet ministers attended a removal ceremony in the nation’s capital to commemorate the completion of the $3.2 million project.





The vessel has been beached since the passage of tropical storm Sandy eight years ago, and the completion of the project was promised before the start of the 2020 hurricane season.





During the ceremony, also attended by representatives of Carnival Corporation, Premier Sharlene Cartwright Robinson thanked everyone who assisted efforts of the removal of the Mega One Triton, with special thanks to Carnival Corporation who partnered with the Government in funding its removal.





"Due to the success of the cruise industry in Grand Turk, the Governor’s Beach is becoming increasingly popular and has been noted as the best beach in the region and best in region for dive excursions.





"The premier and TCIG are thrilled to restore this beautiful beach not only for the enjoyment of tourists but for residents alike and look forward to the re-establishment of the Blue Flag Certification,” the Premier’s Office said.





Similar sentiments were expressed by residents online - welcoming the removal with a hope that the beach is restored to its former pristine beauty.





"Finally! Hopefully our beach will find its way back to its unblemished self again. Thanks to everyone involved in this effort,” one Grand Turk resident posted.





"Thank God, now I can go on the beach and do not get stressed out looking at that rusty boat,” another commented.





While the ship has primarily been an eyesore, for some, especially visitors, it has been something of an attraction in the nation’s capital.





"Wow. It must be great to have your beautiful beach back again. Although, it was becoming quite a landmark for visitors and a reminder of the horrific weather you endured during the tropical storm. Can’t wait to visit again,” a tourist commented.





Other commenters called for the wreck in Long Bay to be tackled next.





The shipwreck is currently loaded onto a huge barge, and is expected to be towed away this weekend to Sint Maarten.





Government officials said when the wreckage is all gone, intense clean-up work will be undertaken at the beach.





The project officially commenced on February 17 and the removal was done in accordance with the Government contract and strict adherence to international safety standards.





Consultants CWaves, an expert company was contracted to oversee the removal in accordance with methodology agreed, was on hand for the duration of the process.





A number of assessments were carried out leading up to the final removal to ensure there was no long term environmental impact.





In September 2019, the Government through the legal tendering process, tendered the project TR 19/29 removal of Mega One Triton.





This followed with the award of a contract to successful bidder, international company Koole Contractors.



