Cruise Ships Will Return to Dominica by May/June If People Would Be Vaccinated

Minister of Tourism, Denise Charles, said cruise ships could return to the country by May/June if at least 70% of the population would get vaccinated to achieve herd immunity. She stated that general vaccination against the COVID-19 pandemic would assure cruise guests to Dominica that they are safe, and this would also protect Dominicans from getting infected by visitors.

“The cruise ships are ready to come back to Dominica,” Charles disclosed. “I have had a few meetings with them; they are looking at May/June. All they want to ensure is that when they bring their guest here, people can feel safe as well.”

According to the tourism minister, the cruiselines are also working to vaccinate their entire staff and employees against the pandemic, and they are willing to comply with disembarkation protocols established by host countries along their itinerary.

Charles also said tour operators and taxis must equally get vaccinated and have evidence of a vaccination card when serving the tour needs of cruise visitors. She emphasized that the onus of bringing cruise ships back to the country rests on Dominicans and that they must do all that is required by the government and health authorities to see this happen.

In a related development, Charles announced that the possibility of holding this year’s World Creole Music Festival (WCMF) is still under consideration.  She said achieving 70% vaccination among the general population would be a major indicator towards approving or cancelling the musical festival. She said the Discover Dominica Authority (DDA) will consult with the Ministry of Health to determine the feasibility of holding the annual event.

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