Port Antonio Welcomes Back-to-Back Cruise Ships
PORT ANTONIO, PORTLAND: The resort town of Port Antonio experienced a surge of excitement this Christmas season. On Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, the town welcomed two cruise vessels, marking a significant moment for local vendors and the tourism industry. The arrival of the Insignia and Seven Seas Navigator brought much-needed income to craft vendors and other businesses in the area. This event is particularly noteworthy as it is the first time in over two decades that Port Antonio has received back-to-back cruise ships. The festive atmosphere was palpable, with locals eager to engage with the visitors and showcase their crafts.
Significance of the Cruise Ship Arrivals
The arrival of the Insignia on December 24 and the Seven Seas Navigator on December 25 is a milestone for Port Antonio. Veteran craft vendor Cathlene Henry expressed her joy, stating, “This is a really good time for craft vendors and JUTA (Jamaica Union of Travellers Association) operators.” At 65 years old, Henry has witnessed the ups and downs of the local craft trade. She reminisced about the days when cruise ships like Star Ward and Nordic Prince docked daily at the Ken Wright shipping pier. In the 1970s, ’80s, and ’90s, Port Antonio regularly welcomed two cruise ships a day, bringing tourists eager to explore local attractions like the Rio Grande and Nonsuch Caves.
Henry’s reflections highlight the long history of tourism in the area and the potential for a revival. The recent arrivals have rekindled hope among local vendors. They see this winter tourist season as a promising opportunity to earn a sustainable income. The positive impact of the cruise ships extends beyond craft vendors. Local businesses, including supermarkets and restaurants, also benefit from the influx of visitors. The excitement surrounding these arrivals signals a potential turning point for Port Antonio’s tourism industry.
Community Engagement and Future Prospects
On both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, East Portland Member of Parliament Annmarie Vaz engaged with vendors and JUTA members. She sought feedback on their experiences with the visitors. Vaz noted, “All the tourism industry players in and around Port Antonio benefitted in a meaningful way from the arrival of the two cruise ships.” This sentiment reflects the broader community’s enthusiasm for the return of cruise tourism. Vaz emphasized the importance of ongoing discussions with the Ministry of Tourism to secure more cruise ships for the future.
Looking ahead, Vaz mentioned that another cruise ship is scheduled to dock in Port Antonio on February 26 and March 10. She expressed optimism about the potential for additional vessels in 2025, which would further support the local economy. “Port Antonio deserves its fair share of the tourism pie,” she stated, committing to advocate for the community’s interests. The recent cruise ship arrivals have reignited hope for a thriving tourism sector in Port Antonio, benefiting not only craft vendors but the entire community.
