March 3, 2003 – The U.S. Coast Guard plans to make permanent a "security zone" rule implemented on a temporary basis a year ago that requires other vessels to stay at least 50 yards away from cruise ships entering, leaving, docked at or moored in the Charlotte Amalie harbor unless they have specific permission to get closer.
The security zone rule was instituted in the wake of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks on the U.S. mainland. Lt. John Reinert of the Marine Safety Office detachment on St. Thomas said the reason for the rule is that vessels coming close to cruise ships could launch a terrorist attack.
Reinert noted the "security zone" distance equals half the length of a football field.
Daysail boats that pick up passengers off the cruise ships and certain other vessels are allowed to get close to the ships, he said, but they must be on a list provided to the Coast Guard by The West Indian Co.
Since the rule took effect in February 2002, there have been some violators, mainly dinghies and small boats, according to Reinert. "People said they didn't know about it," he said.
There will be no public hearing on making the rule permanent, but anyone wishing to comment can do so by writing to Commanding Officer, Marine Safety Office San Juan, PO Box 71526, San Juan, PR 00936. Comments also may be delivered in person to the commanding officer at the same Marine Safety Office, located on the fourth floor of the Rodriguez and Del Valle Building, Calle San Martin, Road 2, Guaynabo, Puerto Rico. The office is open from 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Monday through Friday except federal holidays.
To reach Reinert, call 776-3497.
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