Roseau Cruise Ship Berth
Roseau Cruise Ship Berth operates under the Dominica Air & Sea Ports Authority and is a vital maritime facility that significantly contributes to the island’s tourism and economy. Located on Dame Mary Eugenia Charles Blvd, adjacent to The Dominica Museum, Garraway Hotel, and Fort Young Hotel, this berth is a primary docking point for numerous international cruise ships visiting the island.
About Roseau Cruise Ship Berth
Roseau Cruise Ship Berth opens onto King George V Street, less than a minute from Peebles Park and the Neg Mawon Emancipation Monument. It is strategically positioned to provide easy access to the capital’s amenities and attractions. This facility plays a crucial role in accommodating the influx of tourists arriving by sea, thereby boosting local businesses and the tourism sector. The Roseau Market, Botanic Gardens and Windsor Park Stadium are within walking distance.
The Roseau Cruise Ship Berth is designed to handle large cruise vessels, providing them with the necessary docking facilities. The terminal area is equipped with various amenities to ensure a comfortable experience for passengers. These include an outdoor market, shops, and restaurants conveniently located near the berth. The terminal also has easy access to taxis, mini-buses, and tour buses, facilitating seamless transportation for tourists exploring the island.
Features of the Roseau Cruise Ship Berth
- Length of the Platform: 160 ft. (49m)
- Width of the Platform: 37 ft. (11.30m)
- Access Walkway: 289 ft. x 11 ft. (88m x 3.3m)
- Depth of Water Alongside: 13m
- The highest level of the sea along the berthing line: 9.65m
- Berthing Dolphins: Five (5) berthing dolphins.
- Mooring Dolphins: Six (6) mooring dolphins.
Economic Impact
The cruise ship berth is a cornerstone of Dominica’s Tourism Industry. It has enabled the island to host numerous cruise ships annually, significantly contributing to the local economy. For instance, before Hurricane Maria in 2017, Dominica had scheduled 219 cruise ship calls for the 2017-2018 season. Although this number was drastically reduced post-hurricane, the port has since recovered, with 189 booked ship calls expected for the 2018-2019 season, bringing in around 304,000 cruise tourists.
Tourists docking at the Roseau Cruise Ship Berth have easy access to some of the island’s top attractions. The Villages in the Roseau Valley — Wotten Waven, Trafalgar, Laudat, and the Morne Trois Pitons National Park — are within a short drive, offering visitors a chance to explore the island’s rich biodiversity and natural beauty. Additionally, the vibrant streets of Roseau, lined with old stone-and-wood buildings, offer a glimpse into the island’s cultural and historical heritage.
Transportation and Accessibility
Transportation options from the cruise ship berth are plentiful. Taxis and tour buses are readily available to take tourists to various destinations around the island. This accessibility ensures visitors can conveniently explore Dominica’s attractions, from its scenic beaches to its lush rainforests and majestic waterfalls.
By understanding the significance of the Cruise Ship Berth, Roseau, one can appreciate its role in enhancing Dominica’s tourism infrastructure and economic resilience. This facility exemplifies the island’s commitment to providing a welcoming and efficient entry point for cruise passengers, contributing to Dominica’s tourism industry’s overall growth and development.