Latest News: A New Willy T BVI Bar & Restaurant!
A New Willy T BVI Bar & Restaurant!
Willy T, a BVI Institution – Destroyed
As many of you well know, last fall was a devastating time for the Caribbean. In September, the Virgin Islands were practically decimated, wiping out much of the island’s infrastructure, as well as some age-old institutions! The islands that got the brunt of the hurricanes’ force are still feeling the shock even now, months later.
In the BVI hurricanes tend to hit the islands infrequently, with 13 hurricanes occurring in the 20th century. Many of these hurricanes passed by the islands, causing strong winds and occasionally hitting the northernmost Anegada Island.
However, in September 2017 Hurricane Irma hit the BVI and caused devastating damage. What made this even worse is that it was followed by Hurricane Maria 14 days later. In the BVI Hurricane Irma was a category 5 hurricane and hit the BVI on 6th September 2017. The eye of the hurricane hit Virgin Gorda, Tortola, and Jost Van Dyke, causing significant extensive damage. In the BVI Hurricane Irma hit with more force and wind speed than predicted and became the strongest hurricane ever recorded over the Atlantic Ocean.
In the BVI after Hurricane Irma, there was catastrophic damage with over 4,000 homes destroyed, 85% of housing, and the electricity was only restored months after the hurricane. The world-famous Willy T was also destroyed.
Top 3 Things to Know About New Willy T BVI Bar & Restaurant
1. Tradition, Restored!
One of the greatest BVI traditions, The Willy T BVI Bar & Restaurant, fell victim to significant damage. So much so that the restaurant management decided to replace the original Willy T vessel with a new, bigger boat. The new boat will be almost identical, just a larger version. The bigger the better, right?
2. Reconstruction
After being constructed in America, the new Willy T returned to the BVI on May 10th, however they quickly ran into more difficulties. Upon their arrival, the government told them that the boat was not allowed to moor in their previous home of Norman Island because of an expired seabed license.
3. Now, the Willy T Has Found a New Home – Peter Island!
Restaurant manager, Ewan Anderson said, “It will be ok. It’s another location, it’s on the water, and it’s good for tourism — good for Great Harbour.” This new location is relatively close to the Willy T’s old site, but about 15 minutes away. Peter Island is also home to the Peter Island Resort, which is still dealing with its own hurricane damage. It is unknown exactly when the resort and the Willy T will be fully open for business. However, we remain enthusiastic! Anderson believes that the Willy T will be up and running soon.
