JHTA, St Ann Chamber welcome reopening of Ocho Rios pier

The Jamaica Hotel and Tourist Association (JHTA) Ocho Rios Runaway Bay Chapter (JHTA-ORRB) and the St Ann Chamber of Commerce have both lauded the reopening of the Ocho Rios pier, which was closed for almost two years to undergo repairs.

At the same time, both organisations remain optimistic that the new cruise shipping season which just got under way, and the winter tourist season, set to commence December 15, will be successful as the tourism industry rebuilds after the onslaught of Hurricane Melissa on October 28.

Strong winds were blamed for pushing a cruise ship onto the pier in February 2024, damaging it and leaving a US$20 million repair bill.

The Port Authority of Jamaica, which was responsible for overseeing the repairs, contracted the Canadian firm, Harbourside Engineering Consultants for the main reconstruction, and its sister firm, Harbourside Geotechnical Consultants, to provide technical data.

On November 11, the Zuiderdam cruise ship became the first ship to dock at the pier since February 2024, marking the beginning of the cruise ship season.

“The JHTA-ORRB warmly welcomes the ships to Ocho Rios, and we’re just happy that the Ocho Rios pier is back in operation,” Vana Taylor, chairperson for the regional body told The Gleaner.

“We’re looking forward to a very good season and for Ocho Rios to become the number one port and the number one for cruise shipping again in Jamaica.

“For the winter tourist season, of course we’re very optimistic we’re going to have a good season. Jamaica is open, many of our properties are open – villas and apartments, hotels. So we’re really looking forward to a good season,” Taylor added.

Meanwhile, president of the St Ann Chamber of Commerce, Dr Ransford Davidson, said the chamber welcomes the reopening of the Ocho Rios pier and the resumption of cruise operations.

“The return of over six thousand visitors aboard two vessels marks a significant step toward the parish’s economic and social recovery,” Davidson stated.

“Ocho Rios has long stood as a cornerstone of Jamaica’s tourism industry, and the reopening of the port symbolises resilience, renewal, and the collective strength of our business community. This development provides much-needed stimulus for local enterprises — from tour operators and craft traders to food vendors, attractions such as Dunn’s River Falls and Mystic Mountain, and our hospitality sector at large,” he added.

Davidson said the chamber is looking ahead to the upcoming winter tourist season and is optimistic about the opportunities it will bring for increased visitor arrivals, employment, and revenue across St Ann.

“We extend our appreciation to all stakeholders — the Port Authority, local businesses, government agencies, and community partners — who worked tirelessly to ensure Ocho Rios remains open, vibrant, and ready to welcome the world once again, following a devastating Category 5 hurricane,” Davidson said.

- Carl Gilchrist

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