In an effort to boost vaccinations among tourism stakeholders in the cruise industry, government agencies and cruise tourism sector partners have collaborated to create a Vaccinate to Participate programme.
This is according to a media release from the BVI Ports Authority (BVIPA) on Wednesday June 16, which said the programme is aimed at complimenting the government’s COVID-19 vaccination rollout and to encourage industry staff to get vaccinated.
“Promoting a positive vaccination message, creating awareness of the benefits of the vaccination, and encouraging persons who work in the cruise tourism sector to get the vaccine is the goal of the Vaccinate to Participate programme. It is designed to ensure a healthy return to cruise for the Territory,” the BVIPA stated.
Director of Tourism Clive McCoy commented on the importance of the programme, stating that the territory must meet cruise industry standards to safely resume the sector as it prepares for its first fully vaccinated passenger cruise ship.
He said, “We’re encouraging all front-line tourism workers such as Tour Guides, Tour Operators, Taxi Drivers and hospitality workers to get vaccinated.”
Managing Director of the BVIPA Oleanvine Maynard also commented on the initiative, adding that she believes the objective can be achieved to have as many persons vaccinated as possible.
“Going back to the pre-pandemic cruise levels is an objective for the BVIPA, we want all local businesses to have the opportunity to participate in this industry and therefore we need to get vaccinated; it is as simple as that. I trust we can, and we will manage together,” she stated.
Chief Executive Officer of the Cyril B. Romney Tortola Pier Park Vance Lewis also shared similar sentiments to his counterparts. He said a collective effort from all stakeholders is necessary for the healthy resumption of cruises in the BVI.