Christophe Harbour – St. Kitts Yachting Facility
The Ministry of Tourism and the St. Kitts Tourism Authority have reaffirmed their commitment to developing a thriving yachting industry in St. Kitts. While the island is not yet ready to promote yachting as an official tourism product, a structured plan is now taking shape to ensure future success.
Collaborating with Regional Partners
Tourism Minister Marsha Henderson shared that tourism leaders in Anguilla intend to create a regional yachting hub connecting Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, St. Maarten, and St. Kitts and Nevis. St. Kitts plans to be part of this network but will only move forward when it can deliver a seamless and enjoyable experience for visiting yachters.
Formation of a Yachting Committee
To guide the industry’s development, a dedicated Yachting Committee has been established. This committee meets monthly and includes representatives from:
- Government agencies
- Private stakeholders
- Non-governmental organizations
The committee is focused on building the infrastructure and services required to support the industry before any international promotion begins. Minister Henderson stressed that the goal is to be fully prepared before marketing St. Kitts as a yachting destination.
Identifying Critical Needs
Among the key areas being addressed are essential services and regulatory readiness. Questions under review include:
- Availability of lifeguards and maritime (#ad) safety personnel
- Customs processes for smooth arrivals and clearances
- Efficient systems to handle docking, berthing, and related logistics
These considerations are vital to ensuring that visitors receive high-quality service and that their arrival procedures are straightforward and welcoming.
Responding to Past Challenges
Minister Henderson acknowledged that yachters have previously faced difficulties when arriving in St. Kitts. Complaints included lengthy clearance procedures and excessive bureaucracy, with visitors required to make multiple stops before being able to dock or berth. These concerns underscored the need for a comprehensive and well-managed framework to support yachting tourism.
Future Promotion and Growth
Once the necessary systems and resources are in place, St. Kitts plans to launch and promote its yachting product regionally and internationally. The goal is to attract more private vessels, increase marine-related tourism revenue, and position the island as a key player in the Caribbean’s growing yachting market.
By addressing infrastructure gaps and streamlining processes now, St. Kitts aims to ensure that future yachters will enjoy a safe, efficient, and welcoming experience. This proactive approach will not only enhance the visitor journey but also strengthen the island’s reputation as a premier yachting destination in the years to come.