The U.S. Coast Guard Captain of the Port (COTP) ordered Port Condition X-Ray to be set at the Port of Palm Beach as of 12:00 pm ET on Thursday, September 7, 2017. Sustained gale force winds are expected to affect South Florida within 48 hours. The Port and its tenants and users are currently making preparations for Hurricane Irma’s arrival, in full accordance with the U.S. Coast Guard’s Marine Safety Information Bulletin posted below.
All oceangoing commercial vessels greater than 500 gross tons must prepare to depart the Port and anchorages. Upon the setting of Port Condition Yankee on Friday, September 8, 2017 at 8:00 am ET, these vessels shall depart immediately. Terminal operators should prepare to terminate all cargo operations. The U.S. Coast Guard Port Survey Teams will be deployed to validate implementation of Port Condition X-Ray. The COTP may require additional precautions to ensure the safety of the Port and waterways.
Cruise Passengers
Bahamas Paradise Cruise Line has canceled sailings for Friday, September 8, 2017 and Sunday, September 10, 2017, to Grand Bahama Island from the Port of Palm Beach in Riviera Beach. Affected travelers can call 1-800-374-4363 or their booking agent to reschedule a cruise or request a refund. Guests who re-book by September 30, 2017 will receive a $50 onboard credit per cabin. Bahamas Paradise Cruise Line’s hurricane hotline is 1-800-214-0864.
Resources
United States Coast Guard, Sector Miami: http://homeport.uscg.mil/miami
-- Marine Safety Information Bulletin: http://bit.ly/2eOWeuN
Weather.gov/Miami
AlertPBC.com
ReadyPBC.com
FloridaDisaster.org
ReadySouthFlorida.org
211hurricane.org
Ready.gov
Florida Emergency Information Line: 1-800-342-3557
Palm Beach & Treasure Coast 211 HelpLine: Dial 211