Flames have ripped through buildings on the dock at Antigua Yacht Club Marina in Falmouth. The fire has destroyed much of them.
Devastating footage has been released on their social media of the remains being devoured by flames that lit up the night sky.
Staff from Cloggy’s the bar and restaurant at the end of the dock stood and watched the flames in despair as their restaurant burned. The fire started on the night of 2nd of October 2023.
The beach bar had been the go-to place for Caribbean yachties since it opened nineteen years ago.
The cause of the fire is currently unknown, but the restaurant confirmed on social media that nobody was injured. They added, “19 years went tonight up in flames… nobody got injured… we are down but will be back!”
The flames also engulfed neighbouring establishments. These include the Skull Duggery café, Dock Master’s Office, and Dockside Liquor.
Devastating incident
This devastating incident is likely to lead to the loss of over 100 jobs. That will deal a severe blow to the local community and economy.
Antigua Yacht Club Marina remains resilient. It is determined to continue serving the sailing and yachting community. Speaking on behalf of the Falcone Family, Shaun Falcone issued a statement. In it he said. “Despite this unfortunate incident, we want to assure our valued members, patrons and the sailing community that the main marina facilities, including diesel, water, electricity and dockage, remain fully operational.
We are committed to providing uninterrupted services to our visitors and guests. A new location for our office has already been set in motion to ensure seamless communication and assistance for all our customers.”
With the Antigua Charter Yacht Show scheduled to run from 4th-9th December the aftermath of the fire will likely cause some disruption.
Sympathy and support
Franklyn Braithwaite the President of the Antigua & Barbuda Yachting & Marine Association (ABYMA), said in response, “The Board and Members of ABYMA all offer their sympathy and support for the Falcone Family and the businesses and individuals impacted. The AYCM is the heart of our community and despite the challenges will remain so. They are our friends and we are here to support them.”
Alfa Nero the 82 metre superyacht and the subject of a disputed sale remains moored to the Marina docks. She was just yards away from the incident when it occurred.