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Final touches are being carried out on the new Union Island Ferry Terminal ahead of the official handover of the facility, scheduled for Saturday, October 11th, 2025.

The Union Island Ferry Terminal, located in Clifton, is the largest of the three new ferry terminals constructed across the Southern Grenadines as part of the Government’s ongoing reconstruction programme following the devastation caused by Hurricane Beryl in July 2024.

The new terminal will feature a modern open-air market, retail spaces, and comfortable passenger waiting areas, enhancing both commercial activity and travel convenience for residents and visitors according to Chevonne Stewart, who has been appointed by the Government to assist in the rebuilding efforts across the Southern Grenadines.

This project forms part of a public/private partnership between the Government of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and British businessman Ian Wace and his Gumbolimbo Group which is headed by John and Jessica Davidson.

Through this collaboration, ferry terminals were previously completed and commissioned at Saline Bay, Mayreau, and Grand Bay, Canouan, both of which were officially opened on July 1st, 2025, one year after Hurricane Beryl severely impacted the Grenadines.

Speaking to the API, according to John and Jessica Davidson of the Gumbolimbo Group, British Businessman, Ian Wace, initially pledged US$5 million toward rebuilding efforts in the Southern Grenadines but later increased his contribution to US$25 million, significantly advancing the Government’s efforts to restore infrastructure, improve livelihoods, and strengthen climate resilience in the area.

In an interview with the API, co-ordinator of housing in the Southern Grenadines, Chevonne Stewart, expressed optimism about the upcoming handover and the positive impact the new facility will have on the community.

“Vendors finally have a place to call home again, and residents have a comfortable space to wait for the ferry,” Stewart said. “It’s a proud moment for Union Island and an important sign of progress for the Southern Grenadines."

Hurricane Beryl caused widespread destruction across the Southern Grenadines, displacing approximately 3,000 people and severely damaging housing, public infrastructure, and livelihoods. The construction of the three ferry terminals represents a key component of the Government’s broader recovery, resilience, and redevelopment strategy for the affected communities.

The handover ceremony for the Union Island Ferry Terminal will take place this Saturday, October 11th, and will be attended by Government officials, community leaders, and residents as Union Island continues its steady path toward recovery and renewal.

SOURCE: The Agency for Public Information (API)