Passengers aboard the Seabourn Odyssey Cruise ship that docked in Peter Island earlier today are prohibited from disembarking the ship. This is in accordance with the anchorage format initially approved by local health authorities for incoming ships following the spike in Covid-19 cases.
In an invited comment Premier of the Virgin Islands and overseeing Tourism Minister, Honorable Andrew Fahie stated that anchorage will be employed in the interim of Cabinet reviewing and employing the proposed bubble that will allow for guests to roam in select areas.
The Tourism Minister also noted that guests are enjoying their experiences despite the restrictions.
“Ships were approved under the previous arrangement to go to anchorage. Permission was given for their guests to use the ship’s marina and utilize the ships water sports activities. Since then, ships have been regularly calling to anchorage without issues. Until the operational plan for passenger movements is approved, they will continue to go to anchorage.”
“This clearly demonstrates that the BVIPA and partnering agencies have been able to adjust and creatively accommodate our cruise partners with vaccinated passengers during such challenging times. It is our understanding that the ships guests have enjoyed this new experience,” the premier added.
DESIGNING A COVID-19 BUBBLE DIDN’T COME WITHOUT ITS CHALLENGES
On September 2nd, 2021 the Cabinet of the Virgin Islands made an executive decision to remove the rapid testing requirement that would allow Cruise ships with fully vaccinated passengers to debark. However, disembarkation would be subjected to a “bubble” that permits movement only in identified areas.
The BVI Tourist Board tasked to lead the charge on designing a bubble, seemingly encountered some difficulties which subsequently resulted in the Premier deploying additional assistance to finalize the plan.
“Cabinet also decided that BVITB would lead a task force to develop an operational plan within 7 days for cruise ship excursions once berthed. BVITB encountered some challenges in developing the plan and additional resources from the Premier’s Office were deployed to assist.”
“The plan was received yesterday September 14th for Cabinet’s consideration and approval. Once Cabinet convenes, the appropriate considerations will be made and BVITB will be expected to engage all stakeholders at the appropriate levels to ensure success,” Premier Fahie added.
The leader of the territory, while noting the recent ultimatums of the cruise ship industry and economic benefits, said the plan will be rushed.
“While we view Cruise Tourism as an important contributor to our economy, we can and will not rush the process. We will ensure that a workable plan is fully implemented for the further safe resumption of Cruise Tourism.”
Based on the BVI Ports Authority’s website, the next cruise ship Norwegian Gem is scheduled to dock on October 7th at 7am. Over 3,000 guests are expected to visit the territory for an estimated 6 hours.