The cargo vessel Typhoon Express will not be arriving to Montserrat as scheduled on Thursday, 19 December.
Due to “sea conditions”, the boat will now sail to the island on Monday, 23 December, according to a press release from the Access Division.
“Customers are therefore advised to reassess their cargo arrangements considering this update,” the release stated.
The Access Division has requested that customers register their perishable items with the cargo agent in Antigua on Monday and contact the agent with any additional queries.
For assistance, customers can reach the agent in Antigua, Ken Christian at christianenterprises268@gmail.com, (268) 773-4515, or (268) 736-7886.
The Access Division also noted that the operational schedule is subject to change due to unforeseen conditions.
Container backlog
Lorraine Lewis, country manager at Montserrat Shipping Services, in a Facebook post on Monday, 16 December, said Little Bay port has been experiencing congestion.
She said this has been due to a high volume of barrels and other cargo stored in the warehouse, and as a result, the unloading of new containers was put on hold.
“We are actively working with port authorities to resolve the situation and clear the warehouse as quickly as possible,” Lewis continued.
“In the meantime, we kindly ask for your patience and understanding as we navigate this temporary delay.
“We will keep you updated with any changes and notify you as soon as your shipment can be unloaded. If you have any immediate questions or concerns, please feel free to reach out.”
On Tuesday, 17 December, the Montserrat Port Authority said in a Facebook post that it was extending its opening hours for the “unstuffing” of containers and for cargo delivery.
The warehouse in Little Bay will be open from 4pm to 6pm daily until Friday, 20 December, and from 9am to 4pm on Saturday, 21 December, it said.