For the 2016-2017 cruise season, the Territory is expecting over 700,000 cruise passengers and several inaugural calls to the port of Road Town.

Minister for Communications and Works, Honourable Mark Vanterpool, said that he is enthusiastic about the projections and is ensuring that the infrastructure of the Territory is prepared for the high influx of tourists.

During the plaque exchange for the inaugural call of Aida Diva, today, November 11, Aida representatives noted that 90 percent of their 2000 passengers where on excursions and tours, a good sign that shows passengers do indulge in the services offered to them.

Captain Nikos Nitaschai of Aida Diva said, “Tortola is one of our best islands. The city is close, clean and the new environment with the new shops (Tortola Pier Park) is what our passengers like. It helps a lot for tourism.”

Within the last few weeks, there were inaugural calls from Mein Schiff 4, Viking Star and Aida Diva.

For the month of December, plans are being made by the Ministry of Communications and Works, through the Office of the City Manager, to host several Christmas events in the City of Road Town from December 1 to 24. With this, the ministry is hopeful that visitors and residents will be encouraged to patronise the various shops in town and even walk more as everyone gets into the Christmas spirit.

Ministry of Communications and Works is in support of an enhanced community life for every resident and visitor to the Virgin Islands while pushing the BVI forward.

• Photo of Captain Nikos Nitaschai of Aida Diva and Minister for Communications and Works, Honourable Mark Vanterpool, exchanging plaques at the plaque presentation. (Photo credit: Ronnielle Frazer/GIS)
• Photo of Disney Cruise and Mein Schiff 4 at the Port of Road Town. (Photo credit: Ronnielle Frazer/GIS)