Strategic planning leads to uptick in Port Antonio cruise arrivals, says Seiveright
Published:Thursday | February 27, 2025 | 12:09 AMGareth Davis Sr/Gleaner Writer
PORT ANTONIO, Portland:
Senator Delano Seiveright has hinted that Port Antonio, Portland, is poised to attract additional luxury boutique vessels, as the Ministry of Tourism seeks to establish the resort town as a favourite destination for American and European tourists.
Seiveright’s comments come against the background of a cruise ship visit by Oceania Sirena, which docked at the Ken Wright shipping pier in Port Antonio on Wednesday with 637 passengers and 400 crew members at 7 a.m.
“Recent upticks in cruise arrivals in Port Antonio are not mere coincidences; they are the result of strategic planning by Minister of Tourism Edmund Bartlett and all our public and private partners,” stated Seiveright.
“While Port Antonio may not be able to accommodate mega Oasis-class vessels like Falmouth, it possesses a unique charm that attracts luxury boutique vessels, which are increasingly in demand. I firmly believe that the best is yet to come for this beautiful destination. We will continue to market Port Antonio as a premier port of call, showcasing an exceptional tourism product that offers visitors an unforgettable experience,” he added.
Among the attraction sites that were visited by the passengers and some crew members were Reach Falls, Winifred Beach, Frenchman’s Cove, Folly Ruins, and Rio Grande rafting.
MEANINGFUL EARNING
Eastern Portland Member of Parliament Annmarie Vaz, who toured the vessel on Wednesday, spoke about the need for players in the industry to earn from their livelihood in a more meaningful and sustainable way.
According to Vaz, constant dialogue with the Ministry of Tourism is yielding results, as cruise ships are arriving in Port Antonio more frequently due to the lobbying efforts and the rich tourism history of the parish.
“I have a duty as member of parliament to at least ensure that craft traders, attraction sites, and other interests are able to earn from their livelihood,” commented Vaz.
“While Port Antonio (Ken Wright pier) is unable to accommodate the mega-liners carrying 5,000 passengers or more, it is able to handle the luxury boutique ships, which allows JUTA (Jamaica Union of Travellers Association) members, craft vendors, some commercial operators, and even the jelly man on the street, to earn from their livelihood.
“I am optimistic that, for this year and beyond, Port Antonio will see an increase in cruise ship arrivals, which will at least create some level of hope for those, who remain loyal and committed to the industry,” she concluded.