International assessors are to visit Bermuda next week to survey a $2.8 million pilot boat that suffered major damage after it steamed into a reef.

A government spokeswoman said the St David, bought for $2,795,000, in 2912, was insured for $2.8 million dollars.

Lawrence Scott, the transport minister, said: "We are very grateful that none of the crew was hurt in the crash of St David.

“Investigations are still under way, and the damage to the vessel is being assessed by Lloyd’s Classification, who will be arriving on the island early next week.

“Once the inspection has been completed Lloyd’s will provide recommendations for repairs."

The ministry earlier more details about the incident would be released after the report was prepared and the temporary loss of the vessel would not affect shipping operations.

The St David suffered damage after it collided with a reef near the north-east breaker beacon at about 6.45am on May 6 during a training exercise.

The four crew members on board were unhurt, but the boat had to be towed to Dockyard because its propellers and driveshafts were severely damaged.

The 61ft boat, constructed by the Gladding-Hearn Shipyard in Somerset, Massachusetts, has been used in medical evacuations and for offshore search and rescue missions.