A major cruise moment

By Dana Niland
CJ Travel Editor

The Antiguan Cruise Sector registered an historic moment this week when Norwegian Breakaway, the largest cruise ship to dock at its port, arrived at the Nevis Street Pier.

Antigua and Barbuda Minister of Tourism Asot Michael, alongside other top officials from the tourism sector, welcomed the captain and crew of the vessel to Antigua and Barbuda during an inaugural plaque exchange ceremony on board.

“The Norwegian Breakaway is truly a landmark vessel in the cruise industry–with the capacity of almost 4,000 passengers, and with the additional 1,650 crew members, that is 5,650 visitors to our lovely island in one day,” Michael said.

Michael said he viewed it as a “firm commitment” that Norwegian Cruise Line has endorsed the destination as one that can provide its guest with a first class shore experience.

Inaugurated in 2013, Norwegian Breakaway is over 1,000 feet long and has won honors including Best Cruise Ship for Entertainment, Best Specialty Restaurants, Best New Ship, Best Rookie Cruise Ship, and Best Cruise for Families, among others.

“As part of our promise to improve services on island, our Government has taken steps to ensure we’re providing the most desirable product possible to visitors and residents,” Michael said. “We aim to become the port-of-call of choice for those traveling to the Caribbean from around the world. A total transformation of the port facilities and downtown St. John’s will ensure that we once again regain our former status as a “marquee” destination in the cruise tourism industry.”