Jamaica’s Tourism Minister, Edmund Bartlett, envisions a vibrant future for Port Royal, stating that it will be “the biggest and most exciting destination in the Caribbean.”
While acknowledging it is not there yet, Bartlett exudes confidence in its trajectory during a post-Cabinet press briefing on Wednesday.
A gem in the making
Addressing concerns over the perceived slow pace of tourism development in the seaside town, Bartlett suggests that Port Royal’s challenges are not entirely self-inflicted.
He points to its geographical location on the southern side of Jamaica, where cruise itineraries are currently lacking.
Overcoming challenges
To transform Port Royal into a sought-after destination, Bartlett emphasizes the need for strategic initiatives.
This includes forging partnerships with boutique cruise ships for direct entry into Port Royal.
Bartlett reassures that efforts are underway, with stakeholders, including Prime Minister Andrew Holness and Professor Gordon Shirley, CEO of the Port Authority of Jamaica, actively involved in the development process.
