News

Dominica is positioning itself as a growing and reliable partner in the global cruise tourism industry, with significant investments planned to improve the island’s port infrastructure.

Chief Executive Officer of the Dominica Air and Sea Port Authority (DASPA), Ian Pinard, says this is a time of great opportunity for the sector, noting that forward-thinking investments are essential to meet the demands of the cruise industry.

Plans are underway to upgrade facilities to handle more passengers, improve safety standards, and enhance the visitor experience, while staying true to Dominica’s values of sustainability, culture, and community.

During the last cruise season, Dominica welcomed 350,000 passengers on 236 cruise calls. Mr. Pinard says these numbers show the sector’s strong growth and underscore the need to keep major cruise lines interested in returning as long-term partners.

The government is focusing on upgrades at the Roseau Cruise Ship Berth, Woodbridge Bay Port, and Cabrits Cruise Ship Berth. As cruise vessels grow in size, the aim is to deliver on a promise made to cruise lines and their guests — that Dominica is worth the journey.

Plans are also being finalized to expand the landing platform at the Roseau Cruise Ship Berth to accommodate multiple passenger gangways. Currently, Princess Cruises, which carries over 4,000 passengers, can only dock at Woodbridge Bay, the island’s only port with two gangways.

Mr. Pinard says the upgrades will allow Roseau to handle larger ships and multiple gangways, making it more competitive in the regional cruise market. Dominica’s cruise season runs from October to April each year.