STEPHON NICHOLAS
GML Tobago Correspondent
A High Court judge has asked jet ski operators in Tobago to consider locations outside Pigeon Point Heritage Park to solicit clients and launch their watercraft.
During a virtual hearing this morning between the Tobago House of Assembly (THA) and jet ski operators, Justice Sherlanne Pierre said Pigeon Point cannot be the only option available.
On April 23, the THA was granted a temporary injunction banning jet skis from Pigeon Point Heritage Park and Buccoo Reef Marine Park. The prohibition follows the fatal jet ski accident at Pigeon Point on April 8 that claimed the life of seven-year-old Angelica Jogie.
Responding to a query from the judge about why Pigeon Point is their preferred location, defendant Kelvin Jerry said "99 per cent of visitors" are present there.
Jerry said visitors would approach them to ask about their services or they would walk around asking beachgoers if they were interested in riding a jet ski.
Pierre acknowledged the business model used by operators for close to two decades but advised them to modernise the industry.
The judge said, "That was 18 years ago, we are having this discussion in 2026.”
"There are so many other ways to solicit,” the judge pointed out, adding that “most persons who come to Tobago plan their trip, most persons use social media platforms."
She noted operators can create an app, use TikTok, Facebook and even partner with hotels to offer packages.
"If you already have the customers that broadens your options. If you have the customers, you don't have to launch at Pigeon Point."
She added, "For 18 years the same approach has been made, but the world has moved on."
Attorney Samantha Lawson, counsel for the jet ski operators, noted there is a safety element to be considered as well.
Defendant Alexander Phillips said the shelter provided by Pigeon Point is not offered by other locations.
"I doing jet ski about 16 years now and safety is the priority. The water does change by Store Bay and Swallows; it does get real bad for safety for our customers," he said.
However, the judge challenged the defendants, saying: "The only sheltered or calm area in Tobago cannot be only one spot."
Samantha Lawson, counsel for the defendants, argued that Store Bay is on the Atlantic side of the island while Pigeon Point is in the Caribbean Sea.
However, both beaches are on the Caribbean Sea.
"Pigeon Point lends itself to a better market," Lawson said.
Pierre replied, "Forgive my geography, Pigeon Point is the only beach on the Caribbean side?"
Lawson said Swallows Beach is also on the Caribbean side, but it was too shallow for mooring and disembarking.
"Have a look at it," Pierre said. "When we have been in one spot doing things the same way for almost 20 years, anything different looks wrong, bad and difficult."
The matter was adjourned until 1 pm tomorrow, with parties asked to make oral submissions before a determination is made on maintaining the injunction.
Attorney Christlyn Moore represented the THA.
