Senator Delano Seiveright has suggested that Port Antonio, located in Portland, is on the verge of attracting more luxury boutique cruise vessels as the Ministry of Tourism works to establish the resort town as a prime destination for American and European tourists.
Seiveright’s comments follow the arrival of the Oceania Sirena cruise ship, which docked at the Ken Wright shipping pier in Port Antonio on Wednesday morning, bringing 637 passengers and 400 crew members. He emphasized that recent increases in cruise ship arrivals to the area were not coincidental but rather the result of strategic efforts led by Minister of Tourism Edmund Bartlett and a collaborative effort from both the public and private sectors.
“While Port Antonio may not be able to accommodate massive Oasis-class ships like those that dock in Falmouth, it has a unique charm that draws luxury boutique vessels, which are in high demand,” Seiveright noted. “I am confident that the best is yet to come for this beautiful destination. We are committed to marketing Port Antonio as a premier cruise port, offering a one-of-a-kind experience for visitors.”
During their visit, passengers explored popular attractions, including Reach Falls, Winifred Beach, Frenchman’s Cove, Folly Ruins, and the Rio Grande for rafting.
Creating meaningful earnings for locals
Eastern Portland Member of Parliament Annmarie Vaz, who toured the Oceania Sirena on Wednesday, emphasized the importance of ensuring that local communities benefit economically from the growing tourism industry. She highlighted the ongoing dialogue with the Ministry of Tourism, which has led to more frequent cruise arrivals in Port Antonio, largely due to persistent lobbying and the area’s rich tourism history.
“I have a responsibility as an MP to ensure that local businesses—whether craft vendors, tour operators, or others—can earn a sustainable livelihood from this growth,” Vaz said. “Port Antonio may not be able to handle the massive cruise liners that carry thousands of passengers, but it can accommodate luxury boutique ships, which creates opportunities for JUTA members, craft traders, and even the street vendors, like the jelly man, to earn.”
Vaz expressed optimism for continued growth, stating that the increased cruise arrivals would bring renewed hope and opportunity for those dedicated to the tourism industry in Port Antonio. “I am hopeful that, for this year and beyond, Port Antonio will see even more cruise ships, helping to sustain and grow the livelihoods of many in our community,” she concluded.
