On January 30, 2024, the Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis witnessed a historic moment as the world’s largest cruise ship, “Icon of the Seas,” docked at Port Zante, Basseterre, St. Kitts, marking its first stop on its maiden voyage.
The monumental task of berthing the colossal vessel was entrusted to Kittitian Captain Ludell-Lloyd. In an interview, Captain Harvey-Lloyd expressed his pride in handling such a large ship. He stated, “I am proud to handle such a big ship, and I did all this for the country, the citizens of St. Kitts and Nevis. I am happy that everything went well and safe.”
The “Icon of the Seas” embarked on its inaugural seven-day journey with approximately 5,610 passengers on board. Marsha Henderson, Minister of Tourism, highlighted the significant impact of tourism on the local economy, contributing to over 40% of the GDP in St. Kitts and Nevis.
Henderson praised the flawless execution of the berthing process by the teams from SCASPA (St. Christopher Air and Sea Port Authority) and UDC (Urban Development Corporation). She also emphasized the long-standing relationship with Royal Caribbean, which has been bringing its Oasis Class ships to St. Kitts since 2011.
Elison “Tommy” Thompson, CEO of the St. Kitts Tourism Authority, was present at Port Zante to welcome the “Icon of the Seas.” He expressed delight at the ongoing partnership between St. Kitts and the Royal Caribbean Group.
Russel Benford, Vice President of Government Relations for the Americas and the Royal Caribbean Group, was also on the island to welcome the ship. He described the “Icon of the Seas” as a unique vessel that represents seven years of dreaming, innovation, design, and construction. He added, “This ship really represents 50 years of innovation at Royal Caribbean Group and the cruise industry. The ship is different from any ship you’ve ever seen before.”
This event marks a significant stride for St. Kitts and Nevis in the tourism industry, demonstrating the nation’s capacity to accommodate the world’s largest cruise ships.
Where Skerrit Press Conference on dat nuh,,,
How comes he doh have noffing to say wiff his usual: “Dominica is the Envy of the rest of the Caribbean oh wait I mean The World”,,,
DNO allyou cannot chase mista dong and force him to make another Foolish Comment as usual!!!
It’s a floating methane factory.
Good for St. Kitts to so easily and flawlessly accommodate the world’s largest cruise ship on its maiden voyage. Will Dominica be ever able to do this under the stewardship of the present administration? Not a chance as their focus is single-mindedly on feathering their own nest.
@Ibo, It’s always easy for Dominicans like you to seat around on you all bloody black backsides criticizing your country, my question to idiots like you what are you lots doing to help improve apart from bad mouthing Dominica with smelly breath all day long.