POINTE BLANCHE--Port St. Maarten has requested a permit to allow cruise ships to open their casinos at night when in port. The request by the Port is not for the opening of a land based or floating casino in the country.
Tourism and Economic Affairs Minister Irania Arrindell told Parliament on Tuesday evening the request for the casinos on board the cruise ships is to open stems from ships that want to stay in port longer or those that will overnight in the country.
The current regulations prohibit cruise ships from opening on board casinos while in port. This is a means of stimulating cruise passengers to visit the country and make use of the amenities ashore such as casinos, restaurants and other activities.
