Prior to the official opening of the new cruise pier on April 29, 2015 the Authority is anticipating the arrival of the Carnival Liberty, which has visited the BVI before, but will be the very first ship to the pier. Photo: BVIPA

Special committees have been set up with an objective to commemorate the historic occasion with key industry stakeholders and residents, but to also give cruise guests a memorable arrival and departure. The committees are comprised of persons from the BVI Tourist Board, Ministry of Communications and Works and the Authority.

Some of the festivities planned include live music, dancers and mocko jumbies. The public will receive official notification about the time of the opening ceremony in the coming weeks.

Managing Director of the BVIPA Mr. Claude O. Skelton Cline said a festive atmosphere will be created at the cruise pier to commemorate the cruise pier opening, stating, “What is very special about April 29, is that we are also welcoming Norwegian’s ‘Getaway’ to our new cruise pier facilities and we are doing what we can to ensure our guests visit is a memorable one.”

In January 2014, Norwegian Cruise Line and Disney Cruise Line signed preferential berthing agreements with the BVI Ports Authority, to put into force an annual guarantee of 350,000 and 75,000 passengers respectively. Norwegian’s Getaway will bring over 4,000 passengers to the Territory’s shores on April 29.

Prior to the official opening in April, the Authority is anticipating the arrival of the Carnival Liberty, which has visited the BVI before, but will be the very first ship to the pier. Arrangements are also being made to officially welcome the ship.

The cruise pier development is in line with the BVI Ports Authority’s vision to create a unique and modern cruise pier facility that is environmentally compatible and sustainable, that delivers a memorable and world-class experience.

The BVI Ports Authority is responsible for the Territory’s cruise infrastructure and facilitates port calls.