Cruise & Ferry Review - Autumn/Winter 2021

1 8 0 a gateway to Kingston, the so-called cultural capital of the Caribbean, in an environmentally sustainable manner. To improve the economic and social fabric of Port Royal, the port authority completed a comprehensive upgrade of the renowned Fort Charles attraction located in the historic town. The rehabilitation of this heritage site transformed Port Royal into a cultural and entertainment hub, driving economic growth and creating multiple new job opportunities for storytellers, tour guides and others. It has also been a major boost to the town’s visitor experience and tourism offering. Similarly, the introduction of a pedicab service in Falmouth has significantly enhanced the cruise passenger experience and has been met with much critical acclaim by both visitors and locals. The goal of the service was two-fold as it aimed to provide a unique mode of transportation for cruise passengers and others who visit the town, as well as employment opportunities for residents of Falmouth. Pursuing community development initiatives that extend beyond its ports to support locals has become a strategic imperative at the Port Authority of Jamaica for many reasons. Projects such as those carried out in Falmouth, Ocho Rios and Port Royal are mutually beneficial for improving business, as well as for promoting community engagement and fostering better stakeholder relationships. As it seeks to continually improve Jamaica’s cruise offering and visitor experience, the port authority will pursue new and innovative ways to support and develop initiatives that will benefit the port, the country’s cruise sector, local stakeholders and the wider community. CFR William Tatham is vice president of cruise shipping and marina operations at Port Authority of Jamaica Ocho Rios Fishing Village has been upgraded with new facilities and amenities for cruise guests CARIBBEAN: V IEWPOINT