By
Rebecca Gibson |
The British Virgin Islands officially opened its new cultural and retail complex, Tortola Pier Park, on 16 February, 18 months after construction started.
Attended by representatives from the Government of the Virgin Islands and more than 10,000 people – including cruise passengers, BVI residents and overnight guests – the opening ceremony showcased BVI culture. Guests were met by greeters in traditional dress and were able to enjoy live steel pan music, fashion shows and a parade featuring traditional mocko jumbies, dancers, drum core and more.
The event culminated with the official ceremony when executives from partner cruise companies Disney Cruise Line and Norwegian Cruise Line pledged to continue supporting BVI’s cruise sector.
“It has been quite an exciting journey for the board of directors, management and staff of Tortola Pier Park Ltd. and our tenants,” said Dona Regis, CEO of Tortola Pier Park Ltd. “Today it feels really good to be able to stand here in this beautiful facility and see the fruits of our labour come together in such an unbelievable way. I am happy to say that as of this week we have 30 stores operational, including retail experiences, services, tour operators, and food and beverage. We also celebrate our tenants who have worked extremely hard over the past few months to ensure that their stores are build out to the highest of standards and ready to serve guests.”
Tortola Pier Park is now open from 9am – 6pm Monday to Saturday, and also opens on Sunday if a cruise vessel is in port. Bars and restaurants remain open until 11pm.