By the Caribbean Journal staff

Following the industry-shaking ban of cruises and other travel to Cuba, major cruise lines are scrambling to adapt — and one Caribbean cruise destination is out in front.

The US Virgin Islands said it was working closely with the major lines as they race to rework their itineraries that had included stops in Cuba.

US Virgin Islands Tourism Commissioner Designee Joseph Boschulte said the Ports of the Virgin Islands have reached out to cruise lines to offer the opportunity for passengers to visit the territory, particularly the less-trafficked port in St Croix.

“We have been in contact with the lines about making calls to both St. Croix and St. Thomas,” said Boschulte, who said he told executives that the Territory’s ports can accommodate diverted vessels on short notice.

“We have the capacity and are encouraging the lines to experience St. Croix especially – an emerging tourism destination steeped in rich culture and heritage and whose stakeholders are prepared to provide a welcoming experience for cruise ship passengers,” he said.

Boschulte said the USVI’s ports would continue to monitor the impact of the new Cuba travel policy on the regional industry.

— CJ