Port Antonio gets two cruise-ship arrivals | Lead Stories

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 ships, providing a much-needed boost to local businesses. The arrival of the Insignia and Seven Seas Navigator marked a significant moment for the community, as it was the first time in over two decades that Port Antonio received back-to-back cruise vessels. This event not only brought joy to the residents but also offered a chance for local vendors and tourism operators to earn a living during the busy winter season.

Reviving Memories and Economic Opportunities

The arrival of the cruise ships has rekindled memories for many long-time residents. Veteran craft vendor Cathlene Henry, who has spent 65 years in the craft trade, expressed her gratitude for the influx of tourists. “This is a really good time for craft vendors and JUTA (Jamaica Union of Travellers Association) operators,” she said. Henry reminisced about the days when cruise ships like Star Ward and Nordic Prince docked daily at the Ken Wright shipping pier. In the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s, Port Antonio welcomed two cruise ships each day, with tourists flocking to attractions like Rio Grande rafting and Somerset Falls.

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Henry’s reflections highlight the importance of tourism to the local economy. The recent arrivals have provided craft vendors with the opportunity to showcase their goods and earn income. The winter tourist season looks promising, and Henry is optimistic about the future. She noted that the return of cruise ships could signal a revival of Port Antonio’s tourism industry, which has faced challenges in recent years. The local economy relies heavily on tourism, and the arrival of these ships is a step in the right direction.

Community Impact and Future Prospects

East Portland Member of Parliament Annmarie Vaz visited vendors and JUTA members during the holiday festivities to gather feedback on their experiences with the visitors. She emphasized the positive impact of the cruise ships on the local economy. “All the tourism industry players in and around Port Antonio benefitted in a meaningful way,” she stated. Vaz highlighted that the arrival of the ships was a rare occurrence and a boon for everyone, including supermarket operators and local residents.

Looking ahead, Vaz is in discussions with the Ministry of Tourism to secure more cruise ships for Port Antonio. She mentioned that another cruise ship is scheduled to arrive on February 26 and March 10, which could further enhance the local economy. “Port Antonio deserves its fair share of the tourism pie,” she asserted. Vaz’s commitment to advocating for the community’s interests reflects a broader hope for sustainable tourism growth in the region. The recent arrivals of the Insignia and Seven Seas Navigator have not only provided immediate economic relief but also laid the groundwork for a more prosperous future for Port Antonio.