Harbour has plans for arrivals and events
FOUR years of preparation for the NatWest Island Games will finally be put to the test at St Peter Port Harbour.
The harbour is not only dealing with competitors, officials and spectators arriving and leaving the island, it is also venue for some events, and all on top of handling normal summer traffic.
Harbour master Captain David Barker said plans to ensure the harbour’s readiness for the Games had begun in 2019 and had accelerated in the last six months, working with the organising committee.
‘Guernsey was meant to host the Games in 2021 before Covid hit, so we had done a lot of preparation already in making sure that we would not be too overwhelmed with people,’ he said. ‘This included blocking cruise ships coming to the island for the week, as otherwise transport services would be completely overwhelmed.’
He said that traffic control officers and other marine staff would maintain a strong presence in the harbour throughout the week, especially during the sporting events.
The opening ceremony features a parade of about 2,500 athletes from North Beach to the Albert Pier on Saturday evening.
‘The sailing will be taking place in the Little Russel, while the triathlon relay swim will start from the cruise pontoon, with competitors swimming around some buoys before heading to Albert Marina,’ said Captain Barker.
‘Staff are involved with making sure that nothing interferes with swimmers on the day.’
The final day of competition on 14 July is set to be a particularly busy day for the harbour, with the triathlon relay, cycling criterium and half marathon all being held.
‘There will be hundreds of staff and volunteers setting up barriers and road restrictions, and completing risk assessments. I think the Lt-Governor and his wife are also helping out with the car parking.’
He added that local boat owners had been sent a notice informing them of the activities taking place.
‘The harbour will operate a normal schedule for most of the week, with extended opening hours the day before the Games starts and the day after the Games ends.’
As well as the Games, the harbour will also welcome the return of Tour de Ports de la Manche, a popular French sailing regatta, during the week.
‘The boats for that event will arrive midweek, and Victoria Marina will be full. It’ll be a busy week for us, but manageable,’ Captain Barker said.
