YachtAid Global to support communities and islands across Cyclone hit Vanuatu

In Tonga, as of 13 April, 17 evacuation centres are sheltering 323 people. An estimated 428 houses have been damaged or destroyed.

YachtAid Global (YAG) the superyacht disaster management aid agency is ramping up support to provide humanitarian aid, conservation, and disaster response leadership to Vanuatu after Tropical Cyclone Harold made catastrophic landfall as a Category 5.

A life-threatening storm surge and wind gusts of over 300 kph have been reported at Espiritu Santo, the island of Pentecost and other islands across Vanuatu.

In Tonga, as of 13 April, 17 evacuation centres are sheltering 323 people. An estimated 428 houses have been damaged or destroyed.

No yachts are being coordinated because of COVID-19 with Vanuatu so far being free of the Virus and hopefully staying as such.

Instead YachtAid Global is seeking donations for relief work supporting Operation Nasama

Treasured cruising ground

Nevertheless the islands are a treasured superyacht cruising ground and are in need of help

Storm damage near Vanuatu’s capital, Port Vila, on Tuesday.Credit…Philippe Carillo/Agence France-Presse — Getty Images

Efforts by YachtAid Global encompass global programs, logistics management and consultation for superyachts which want to contribute to the world around them.

They facilitate volunteering by yachts and crew as they work on humanitarian and conservation initiatives in the communities they visit.

When a natural disaster strikes, YachtAid Global coordinates the acquisition and delivery of humanitarian aid to impacted coastal communities, working with a global network of volunteers, vetted NGOs and disaster relief experts.

YAG abides by agenda-free program work. We work with vetted strategic partners and proven processes to ensure timely, needs-verified, ethical and responsible humanitarian and conservation work.

Saves lives

This work saves lives, builds stronger coastal communities, and helps donors and businesses expand their philanthropic footprint.

100% of all donations will provide relief to people impacted by the hurricane Harold in the form of emergency supplies like food, tarps, hygiene kits, and medicine, in addition to longer-term recovery assistance to help residents.

YachtAid Global is working with yachts in the region to coordinate support. In addition, we are working closely with our NGO partner organizations that are deeply rooted in local communities and are best position to provide long-term support for survivors of natural disasters like this tropical cyclone.

Cyclone Harold brings strong winds in Luganville, Vanuatu April 6, 2020, in this still image obtained from a social media video. (Courtesy of Adra Vanuatu/Social Media via Reuters

The people affected by tropical cyclone Harold will need help for years as they rebuild their lives, homes, and communities.

One of the primary tasks of YachtAid Global is finding vessels to transport donated goods. There are times when superyachts shift the goods from origin straight to destination, and other times, they move the goods to a location closer to its ultimate destination. Superyachts interested in helping by being a vessel of transport, should contact YachtAid Global.