BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – PRIME MINISTER Dr. the Hon. Denzil Douglas has given Sky Safaris his nod of approval as he not only cut the ribbon to the new office space, but he also took flight over the Wingfield River to officially declare the lines open.
The official opening ceremony, held on the site of the old Romney Manor last Saturday (May 9), brought together a number of government and private sector officials, as well as partners of the new company to get a firsthand experience of zip-line tours.
Managing Director of parent company Delisle Walwyn & Co. Ltd. Denzil Crooke said that with strategic planning, deep-seated resolve to act and critical partnership and networking, the EC$2M project was able to come to fruition.
He said, “In the face of economic challenges, we have committed to an EC$2M venture. Some of you may be contemplating a project and may be dismayed by challenges, but may this experience be an encouragement to you.”
In a brief address at the opening ceremony, PM Douglas described the new business venture as a “tangible contribution to the continued development in the tourism product of St. Kitts-Nevis”. He congratulated Delisle Walwyn & Co. Ltd. and Greg’s Safaris for their confidence not only in their capacity to succeed but also in the nation’s investment climate during difficult economic times.
“Although there are challenges faced by the crisis, we will make sure that there are opportunities for investment. This is one of those opportunities – an opportunity for employment, an opportunity for improved lives and an opportunity for tourism to remain an exciting and growing element of our economy,” Douglas said.
PM Douglas noted that the new company is a combination of recreational and historical experiences as the site “brings back memories of the history of our country”. He therefore stressed the importance of safety and environmentally-friendly sustainable tourism development as he deemed the area as one of the unspoiled sites on the island.
“Although we promote eco-tourism, we must ensure that there is continued protection of our environment. I believe Sky Safaris will take both safety and environmental protection into consideration,” Douglas said, adding that his government would continue to promote environmental protection for the area and for similar sites around the island.
Although he didn’t take the entire tour, Douglas showed no fear as he strapped up and took flight on the first zip-line, challenging Senator Richard Skerritt to a battle of speed to the finish. Douglas exclaimed that the ride was “a great experience!” adding that he was able to survive his first flight.
The Sky Safaris site is expected to be fully developed with a full-service bar and gift shop and may soon offer bungee jumping as another recreational element in the overall tourism development at Wingfield River.
