Owner of the fire-destroyed Kaikoconut floating bar says he will rebuild as soon as possible.

Glen Hector confirmed there is no doubt about restoring the business. He said the vessel will return despite the major loss.

The luxury party boat attracted hundreds of visitors each week. As a result, it became a must-do activity for many tourists.

However, a fire destroyed the two-level catamaran on Sunday night. The vessel could hold about 175 people and featured a restaurant and water attractions.

Hector said the damage exceeds EC$2 million. He explained that the boat took three years to build.

“My boat took three years to build,” he said. “It burnt in less than 30 minutes.”

Meanwhile, the cause of the fire remains unclear. Hector described the incident as baffling.

He said his team followed normal closing procedures that evening. In addition, no one was on board when the fire started.

Despite the loss, Hector remains determined. “I am 100 percent rebuilding,” he said.

Furthermore, he confirmed that insurance will help. However, he said he will rebuild even without it if necessary.

He estimates the process could take about one year.

At the time of the fire, Hector was at home with his young son. Shortly after, friends called to report flames near Valley Church Beach.

His daughter, Noemie, went to check the vessel. However, he told her to stay away due to danger.

There was about EC$35,000 worth of alcohol on board. Therefore, Hector feared a possible explosion.

Before the fire, Kaikoconut had built a strong reputation. It earned a five-star rating on TripAdvisor.

In addition, the business secured cruise ship contracts and future bookings. The day after the fire, 200 people had reservations.

As a result, Hector has already started issuing refunds. He said deposits total over EC$120,000.

The company also planned to attend a major cruise event in Miami next month.

Hector built the venture after years of planning. Meanwhile, he also developed Creole Antigua Tours over two decades.

However, the COVID-19 pandemic created serious setbacks. It forced his business off the water and strained finances.

Nevertheless, he continued building despite supply and material challenges. He described the process as the biggest challenge of his life.

Now, the fire leaves eight staff members out of work. Meanwhile, the wreck remains on the seabed.

The insurance company will soon begin salvage operations. This will help determine the next steps.

Despite the setback, Hector remains committed. He said the dream will not end and future generations will continue it.