The first regular cruise call since the COVID-19 pandemic started in March 2020 (see related story) this Wednesday is indeed a significant moment in the island’s recovery from the related socio-economic crisis. The homeporting initiative with the same cruise line is no doubt providing a much-needed boost, but so-called “transit calls” are important especially for shopping, tours and attractions.
The company has plans for nine of its 14 ships to resume passenger trips by mid-September, more than half the fleet. The industry in general predicts a strong rebound, with pent-up travel demand.
Particularly now that the vessels can sail from US harbours again, popular destinations such as Port St. Maarten stand to benefit. It is essential to prepare well for this development to deliver a good product at reasonable prices, quality service and a not only pleasant but also safe vacation experience, in Philipsburg and elsewhere.
Regarding stayover tourism, extension of the closing time from 11:00pm to 2:00am helps offer visitors the kind of evening entertainment that the island is known for too. The same goes for lifting the curfew on the French side, although businesses can still only operate until 11:00pm there.
Both COVID-19 infection and vaccination numbers locally justify this move, according to Minister of Public Health, Social Development and Labor VSA Omar Ottley. In addition, the reality is that while liquidity support from the Netherlands remains indispensable, the country cannot rely on such forever and must work hard to restore its own livelihood sooner rather than later.
