An Update on Sanibel Oil Slick

The city of Sanibel, Florida is located on a tropical island. Here people usually expect to see soft white sandy, a beautiful beach, and very rich foliage. The water is also crystal blue and very welcoming. These images are certainly contrasted by the recent BP oil spill disaster that has affected the Gulf Coast area. What about Sanibel? Any oil spill damage to speak of as of July 2010?

No, Sanibel has not been affected by the oil leak. However, tourism is still taking a nosedive and it’s making Sanibel merchants (and the entire tourism industry—a major part of the city) nervous. Despite the fact that there is no oil spill damage, many vacationers are canceling their plans or avoiding booking travel anywhere near Florida.

The tourism industry is indeed being held captive by oil spill notoriety. It is not the oil but the headlines that are hurting the city’s tourism. The city speculates the loss of tourism because of BP’s bad press could amount to millions of dollars.

Is it likely that the oil spill will come to Sanibel or Captiva? Oil damage is indeed great, but officials in the city say that it is unlikely the spill will reach so far southward. Nevertheless, city officials are monitoring the oil spill for the slight possibility that oil will start mixing with the ocean water. Experts are not denying the possibility that the oil spill will hit Florida—but do doubt it will reach the Sanibel area.

As Chamber of Commerce President Ric Base says, “Whenever [anyone] hears Florida, they hear the whole state of Florida.” City officials remain confident that the oil spill will be contained by the time the second tourist season arrives. There is still plenty of beauty to see in Sanibel and Captiva. Oil spill or not, tourism goes on. The beaches are not impacted by the disaster! Come enjoy yourself.