Special committees  have been set up with an objective to commemorate the historic occasion  with key industry stakeholders and residents, but to also give cruise guests a memorable  arrival and departure. The committees are  comprised of persons from the BVI Tourist Board, Ministry of Communications and Works and the Authority.

 

Some  of  the  festivities  planned  include  live  music,  dancers  and  mocko jumbies.  The  public  will  receive  official  notification  about  the time  of  the  opening ceremony in the coming weeks.  

 

Managing  Director  of  the  BVIPA  Mr.  Claude  O.  Skelton  Cline  said  a  festive atmosphere will be created at the cruise pier  to commemorate the  cruise pier opening, stating, “What is very  special about April 29, is that we are also  welcoming Norwegian’s ‘Getaway’  to our new cruise pier facilities and  we are doing what  we can to ensure  our guests visit is a memorable one.”

 

In  January  2014,  Norwegian  Cruise  Line  and  Disney  Cruise  Line  signed preferential  berthing  agreements  with  the  BVI  Ports  Authority, to  put  into  force  an annual  guarantee  of  350,000  and  75,000  passengers  respectively.  Norwegian’s Getaway will bring over 4,000 passengers to the Territory’s shores on April 29. 

 

Prior to the official opening  in April, the Authority is  anticipating  the arrival of the  Carnival Liberty, which has visited the BVI before, but will be the very first ship to the pier. Arrangements are also being made to officially welcome the ship.  

 

The cruise pier development is in line with the  BVI Ports Authority’s vision to create a unique and modern cruise pier facility that  is environmentally compatible and sustainable, that delivers a memorable and world-class experience. The BVI Ports Authority is  responsible for the Territory’s cruise infrastructure and facilitates port calls.