There is an interesting letter to the editor in today’s paper by local marine veteran Robbie Ferron. He argues that islands most likely to be successful during the upcoming yachting season in an unsure “new normal” are those with consistent and clear, well-communicated rules.
The same can probably be said about the cruise sector. Destinations are to proactively engage the cruise lines on matters such as COVID-19 protocols so they can be ready when the passenger-carrying vessels start visiting again.
As the ships make more than one stop, that is best done in a regional context with others on their itineraries. The Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA) obviously plays a major role in this process.
It has been awfully quiet – at least locally – in that regard, as the industry reportedly grapples with social-distancing and other pandemic-related requirements. But behind the scenes, work is taking place to ensure the necessary safeguards such as providing cleaner air and preboarding testing if needed after every port of call. For example, some of the rapid test methods look promising and getting quick results could make a big difference.
Approved vaccines, once widely available will undoubtedly solve part of the problem, but – even then – certain measures may be maintained. It is important to study these developments carefully and contribute to restoring part of the country’s livelihood, especially in Philipsburg.
Stayover tourism too must be constantly evaluated to stay ahead of the competition. There had been talk of in the future possibly requiring only testing on arrival instead of a negative PCR result within 72 hours before departure, which is proving to be a challenge for many travellers.
Perhaps now, with a rising number of local infections, is not the best time to revisit this matter, but down the road it could have a big impact on the island’s economic revival.
