According to the BVIPA’s new Acting Deputy Managing Director, Oleanvine Maynard, 17 ferry passengers entered the territory from St Thomas in the neighbouring US Virgin Islands.

“The process went well as everyone complied with the health protocols given,” Maynard told BVI News Thursday night.

Tourism Director Clive McCoy echoed similar sentiments, stating: “We are thrilled that the seaport is open. It is a testament to the hard work that HM Customs, Immigration, Public Health, BVI Tourist Board, and many others under the leadership of the BVIPA have done to get to this point. Yesterday went as expected and we anticipate that any hiccups will be addressed moving forward.”

Under the existing restrictions, up to 50 persons are permitted to enter the territory via seaports daily.

Meanwhile, yesterday’s reopening marks the first time in more than a year the BVI’s marine borders are officially open to international traffic — an important sector of the territory’s economy.

For now, ferry-transported visitors will only be able to enter the territory via the Road Town Jetty on Tortola, where health officials and other resources have been set up to screen incoming passengers.

Only one round trip is being operated daily.