SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico — The Caribbean Fantasy response is downsizing from an emergency response to long term project management.
The project management phase consists of the continuing joint marine casualty investigation, hazardous and non-hazardous waste disposal, damage and stability assessment, and survey and removal of cargo. Non-essential personnel are being demobilized as the transition occurs.
Customs and Border Protection and the U.S. Department of Agriculture will inspect vehicles and cargo prior to release. For information on the status and delivery of vehicles, cargo or passenger effects contact American Cruise Ferries, the operator of the Caribbean Fantasy, at (787) 622-4800 Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The Coast Guard maintains responsibility as the Captain of the Port for mooring concerns, Maritime Transportation Security Requirements and administrative orders for removal and disposal of oily waste. The Coast Guard is maintaining a 100-yard safety zone around the vessel.
The joint marine casualty investigation includes the Coast Guard, the National Transportation Safety Board, RINA Services and the flag state, Panama.
The responding salvage company is developing a heavy weather mooring plan for the vessel.
Agencies that assisted with the Caribbean Fantasy Response include American Cruise Ferries, Ardent, Baja Ferries, the Coast Guard, the Environmental Protection Agency, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the National Response Corporation, O'Brien's Response Management, the Department of Planning and Natural Resources, the Puerto Rico Emergency Management Agency, the Puerto Rico Environmental Quality Board, the Puerto Rico Fire Department and the Puerto Rico Department of Natural and Environmental Resources.
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