Basseterre, St. Kitts – The highly anticipated 2024-2025 cruise season was officially launched with the arrival of the Sapphire Princess, a grand 2,670-passenger vessel from Princess Cruise Line, which made its inaugural call to St. Kitts on Friday, 18th October 2024. The ship docked at Port Zante early in the morning, opening the gateway for passengers to immerse themselves in the island’s vibrant culture, history, and scenic beauty.
The Honourable Marsha Henderson, Minister of Tourism, was present to personally welcome the ship’s captain, crew, and passengers. In her address, Minister Henderson highlighted the unique opportunities awaiting visitors, urging them to venture beyond the usual tourist attractions of sun and sand.
“It is my privilege, on behalf of the Government and people of St. Kitts and Nevis, to warmly welcome you to our beautiful island,” she said. “While our beaches are stunning, St. Kitts has so much more to offer—rich history, unique cultural experiences, and pristine, untouched landscapes. I hope, Captain, that you and your passengers find the time to explore these hidden treasures.”
Captain Paolo Ravera of the Sapphire Princess reciprocated the warm welcome, expressing his delight at leading the ship’s inaugural visit to St. Kitts. He shared his enthusiasm for bringing the ship to the Caribbean, a region loved by travellers worldwide, and praised St. Kitts as a destination with considerable appeal.
Joining Minister Henderson at the welcoming event were key tourism and port officials, including Kelly Fontenelle, Chief Executive Officer of the St. Kitts Tourism Authority (SKTA), Calvin Duggins, Chief Operations Officer of the St. Christopher Air and Sea Ports Authority (SCASPA), and Jamal Pitt, Port Operations Supervisor of the Delisle Walwyn Group of Companies.
Minister Henderson expressed confidence in the growing allure of St. Kitts as a cruise destination, with the Sapphire Princess’s arrival setting a positive tone for what is expected to be a bustling and prosperous cruise season. She emphasised the importance of offering visitors more than just traditional tourism experiences, encouraging them to explore the island’s cultural and historical depth.
Passengers on board the Sapphire Princess had the opportunity to enjoy guided tours to some of St. Kitts’ most iconic sites, including the UNESCO-listed Brimstone Hill Fortress, along with a variety of cultural and nature-based excursions.
As the Sapphire Princess embarks on its journey, the visit underscores St. Kitts’ expanding reputation as a premier Caribbean destination, with more cruise ships expected to visit throughout the season, contributing to the island’s tourism growth.
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