POND ISLAND--It is time to allow the larger cruise vessels to remain in port in the evening hours, said Tourism and Economic Affairs Minister Stuart Johnson on Wednesday. A change to the existing legislation would be required to make this a reality.
"Imagine: if passengers stay in the evening hours they will likely dine in our restaurants, take an evening island tour or even embrace our nightlife. This will generate additional economic activity for the business community,” Johnson said.
While on a working visit to SeaTrade Med Cruise Conference in Lisbon, Portugal, last week he was lobbying for large cruise vessels to remain in port into the evening.
Meanwhile, Seaborne will recommence home-porting in St. Maarten starting at the end of November with a 450-passenger cruise vessel.
"I look forward to the support of key stakeholders to fully realise these initiatives, inclusive of homeporting, extended hours for cruise vessels and others yet to come," Johnson said in a press statement.
