Carnival eyes Cuba
The world’s largest cruiseship operator is moving forward with plans to expand its presence in the Caribbean.
Carnival noted parts of the Hollywood blockbuster ‘Jurassic Park’ were filmed in Amber Cove.
In a statement issued Wednesday afternoon Carnival Corp told investors that it will begin welcoming guests at a newly developed port in the Dominican Republic this fall.
The company claims the $85m investment in the overhaul of Amber Cove represents the highest cruise industry expenditure the island has ever seen.
“In looking to the future, the [Amber Cove] port is strategically located to be incorporated into itineraries featuring potential stops in Cuba,” the owner added.
While China and South America have become increasingly important markets Carnival claims the Caribbean is still the most popular cruising region in the world.
It pointed out that its new facility, which is scheduled to open in October 2015, will feature a two-berth port capable of accommodating the largest cruiseships in operation.
“The facility, a joint project between Carnival and the Rannik family of Grupo B&R, is expected to host more than 250,000 cruise passengers in its first year of operation,” it continued.
“The new portwill also give cruise passengers an opportunity to see another part of the Dominican Republic, our Amber Coast, which hasn’t been available as part of cruise itineraries in nearly 30 years,” added Francisco Javier, tourism director of the Dominican Republic.
Carnival says its new port will be used by six of the company’s brands – Carnival Cruise Line, Costa Cruises, Cunard, Holland America Line and P&O Cruises (UK).
source:www.tradewindsnews.com
