Two cruise ships which were due to dock in Tortola this week have bypassed the Virgin Islands to allow time for recovery works to be completed.
Premier Dr. Orlando Smith said Saturday that officials decided to cancel the arrivals after “careful consideration” and consultation.
A Disney Cruise Line ship was due to arrive at the cruise pier in Road Town on Tuesday and a Norwegian Cruise Line ship yesterday.
According to the BVI Ports Authority website, each ship was carrying more than 1,000 passengers.
Dr. Smith said that while the territory is “open for business” there is still much to be done to restore the infrastructure, key attractions and beaches.
“Cleanup and recovery efforts continue to address damage to critical infrastructure in the short term,” he said.
He added that upgrading key infrastructure throughout the territory is also on the agenda for the long term.
The premier explained that it was after considering the volume of visitors expected from the calls that the government agreed to delay cruise ship arrivals.
“It is important that our recovery efforts continue to ensure that we provide lasting memories of the BVI for both visitors and residents alike,” he said.
The decision was made following consultation with the Recovery Advisory Group and industry stakeholders.
The next cruise ships due to arrive in Tortola are scheduled for Aug. 29 and 30.
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