Managaha Island reopened to visitors last Monday, Sept. 7, after months of cleanup and repairs following Super Typhoon Sinlaku, according to Jennifer Tan, executive vice president of Sea, Air, and Island Leisure.
Tan told Marianas Press that Sinlaku caused extensive damage to facilities on the popular tourist island, with the cost of repairs and cleanup reaching well into six figures.
The storm knocked down trees, scattered debris across the island, damaged roofs and building structures, pulled apart gutters, and chipped paint after days of strong winds and rain.
“But off the top of my head, I don't have that number, but it is well into the six figures for sure,” Tan said when asked for an estimate of the damage.
Managaha had been closed even before Sinlaku arrived as worsening sea conditions made travel to the island unsafe.
Tan said the company decided to stop operations once the passage became dangerous, putting the safety of employees and visitors first.
The closure came only a few months after Managaha reopened last Feb. 15.
Tan said the company initially expected to deal with Sinlaku like other storms, with plans already in place for cleanup and a quick reopening. The extent of the damage changed those plans.
“Definitely very, very frustrating,” she said. “But at the same time, it is about protecting our crown jewel, as we all call it, and also protecting our employees, protecting the safety of anybody who would go to Managaha.”
After months of work, Tan said the concession area is nearly ready and visitors can expect normal services when the island reopens.
“All our services will be fully functioning, all rentals, F&B, the swim zone, everything will be ready,” she said.
Some sections of the island, however, will remain off-limits because it is bird breeding season. Tan said birds have burrowed into the sand in some locations, requiring those areas to be protected.
She said the restrictions are part of the responsibility of protecting Managaha's natural environment.
Despite those limited closures, Tan said visitors should have everything they need, including working bathrooms, food and beverage service, rentals, and access to the swimming area.
“I don't expect guests to feel like they don't have everything they need to have a good time. I think Managaha is the same as it's always been. It's beautiful,” she said.
Access will also be available to local residents, not just tourists.
Tan said the company's agreement with the Department of Public Lands requires service to the local community. A chartered boat will make trips to Managaha twice a day, while residents with their own boats can also visit and use the services available on the island.
With the reopening finally at hand, Tan invited residents to return to what is often called the CNMI's “Crown Jewel.”
“Come see it. Come enjoy it. Come take a look,” she said. “I would say that our Crown Jewel is still our Crown Jewel.”
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