Anguillian importers are counting their loss this week following an incident in which the MV Vagabond, a Tortola-owned cargo boat, reportedly struck a rock on its way to Anguilla and the neighbouring French and Dutch islands.

Ian Connor, the Anguillian agent for the boat, said it struck the rock on Monday night as the vessel headed up from Road Town, Tortola, after arriving there from Puerto Rico on Sunday.

The cargo was mainly for Anguilla and items such as lumber and other merchandise, floated off the boat as it took in water. Among the cargo was a backhoe for Alan Gumbs. The impact against the rock reportedly ripped a hole in the bow area of the steel hull which took in water flooding the stern and engine room.

Connor said specialists were called in and efforts were commenced to refloat the half-sunken boat. It was reported that some underwater welding was necessary to facilitate the process.

The Vagabond is one of two boats owned by the Stout family of Tortola and was regarded the main vessel bringing cargo to Anguilla and the neighbouring islands.

The sister ship, Tortola Pride, will continue the cargo service, according to Connor.

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