Basseterre, St. Kitts – Nevis
March 19, 2008 (CUOPM)
The 671-passenger vessel “Regatta” was berthing Wednesday at Port Zante after ground swells made it unsafe to make its scheduled call to Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands.
According to the St. Christopher Air and Sea Ports Authority, the Regatta “arrived at the Pilot Station this morning at 6:45 and was successfully berthed by one of SCASPA’s pilots with the assistance of the Berthing Officer.”
Head, Corporate Affairs and Public Relations, Delcia Bradley-King said SCASPA’s Marine Department was contacted on Tuesday and indicated to the agents that the cruise ship could be accommodated.
“This is not the first time that SCASPA has accommodated an unscheduled vessel. As discussed in our last press conference, there are occasions when for one reason or another, vessels have to abort berthing in other ports and they come to St. Kitts,” said King.
She said SCASPA is happy that to assist The Regatta and their agents, but are particularly pleased that the St. Kitts and Nevis economy will benefit from the unexpected passenger arrivals.
Also in port Wednesday was the 2,642-passenger Carnival Mircale and the 228-passenger Royal Clipper. The 2,642 passenger Carnival Destiny is scheduled to berth on Friday.
The 2,020- passenger Empress of the Seas is to visit on Saturday.
Next week will be a busy week for stakeholders in the cruise ship industry when close to 19,000 passengers are scheduled to visit on board 10 ships.