Metamorphosis - Cruise Ship Portal

Grenada received its first cruise ship,
containing 780 official cruise visitors,
in 1955. At the time, there were only
60 hotel rooms on the island catering for those
few discerning travellers who journeyed there.
Grenada’s cruise tourism industry has since
developed by leaps and bounds and the island
now welcomes almost 300,000 passengers
annually. The industry contributes more than
60% of total visitor arrivals to the island and is
one of the best means of introducing potential
stay-over visitors to its unique mix of experiences.
For the past ten years, Grenada’s cruise industry
has enjoyed relatively steady growth. However,
in 2007 and 2008 cruise passengers increased
by 23.61% and 8.28%, respectively. The 2009
performance was augmented by the advent of
Pulmantur Cruises, which buffered the summer months with
weekly visits. Overall, an increase of 21.46% was recorded in
cruise ship visitor arrivals from January to November 2009.
Island of experiences
Grenada offers its visitors a wealth of experiences, old and new.
In recent years these have included the creation of an underwater
sculpture gallery, the expansion of duty-free shopping, eco-type
adventures and the enhancement of the island’s natural and manmade
attractions. For example, Grenada has improved its product
offerings by providing easier access to the inner courtyard of Fort
George. This new route creates a unique experience where
visitors can relax and enjoy the beauty of the historic town, often
referred to as the “city on the hill”.
The welcoming ambience at the Melville Street Cruise Ship
Terminal continues to play a crucial role in attracting cruise ship
passengers. It ensures that an array of unique souvenir items, such as
oils and perfumes, are available at its range of shops. Visitors can also
sample the indigenous art displayed on paintings, crafts and fabrics.
As well as hikes to Grand Etang, Seven Sisters, Mount Qua
Qua and Concord Waterfall, visitors to Grenada now have an
Company insight > Ports & destinations
Caribbean cruise appeal
Grenada’s cruise industry is growing at a phenomenal rate, 21% in 2009, and passengers will continue
to be attracted to this beautiful island as it undergoes a range of development projects.
“
Grenada is focused on the
preservation and conservation of
its natural and cultural attributes
in a context that will maintain its
reputation as an unspoilt
Caribbean destination.
In 2009, cruise visitors to Grenada increased
by 21.46% compared with 2008.
additional hike to enjoy. The Morne Longue Fedon Camp
eco-tourism attraction allows hikers to experience a range
of birds and monkeys in their natural habitat, as well as enjoy
picturesque views of the eastern seascape and the ruins of
Fedon Camp, which featured prominently in the Julien Fedon
Rebellion of March 1795.
The Annandale Waterfall is being upgraded to reflect a higher
level of organised participation by members of the local
community. Reducing congestion among vendors and other
service providers via tailored tours, parking areas and a
community-based management structure, are part of plans to
upgrade the experience provided to all who visit this attraction.
Grand Anse Beach is benefiting from further enhancement
initiatives through the construction of additional changing
rooms, lockers and shower booths, as well as the provision
of thatched umbrellas for added shade. In Carriacou, tourism
enhancement plans include the restoration of the Beausejour
Windmill and the installation of a wooden theatre at the
Belair Park. The Maroon & Regional String Band Music
Festival, which is planned for 23–25 April 2010, is aimed
at preserving the culture of that 13m² island by having
it showcased at a professional level.
Grenada is focused on the preservation and conservation of
its natural and cultural attributes in a context that will maintain
its reputation as an unspoilt Caribbean destination. �
The Grenada Board of Tourism
The Grenada Board of Tourism is charged with promoting
Grenada as a preferred Caribbean tourist destination.
www.grenadagrenadines.com
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