Featured Cruise Destinations by the FCCA

FCCA Cruise Destinations 1

Guadeloupe Islands

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Welcome Letter ................................................ 3

Aruba ............................................................. 5

Colombia ........................................................11

Dominican Republic ..........................................17

Guadeloupe Islands ..........................................23

Mexico ...........................................................29

Panama ..........................................................35

Puerto Rico ......................................................41

Sint Maarten ....................................................47

U.S. Virgin Islands ............................................53

ColombiaAruba

Dominican Republic

Mexico Panama U.S. Virgin Islands

Sint Maarten

Puerto Rico

Con t en t s

FCCA Cruise Destinations 3FCCA Cruise Destinations2

Welcome to Cruise Destinations, our new publication designed to showcase our partner the cruise destinationsof the Caribbean and Latin America. This beautiful magazine represents another step in FCCA’s mission offurthering the symbiotic relationship between the cruise industry and our destination partners. It is a greatway to display the growth, prominence, offerings and importance in the industry of these incredible destina-tions. Only by working closely together can both the cruise industry and the destinations thrive.

I want to personally thank the nine destinations that have shown their commitment to working with the cruiseindustry and are featured in this inaugural edition. These nine destinations – Aruba, US Virgin Islands, St.Maarten, Mexico, Dominican Republic, Panama, Columbia, Puerto Rico and Guadalupe – represent the epit-ome of cruise ports of call. Because of their dedication to working with the cruise industry, they have expe-rienced drastic growth that has made a positive impact on their local economies, all the while providing anextraordinary experience for the thousands of cruise passengers that visit their destinations.

On behalf of the FCCA , I hope that this publication will enlighten and inform by providing an inside glimpseinto these destinations and show more clearly what they have done to cultivate cruise tourism. We want towork with all of the destinations, building mutually beneficial relationships showing the beauty of this exquisiteregion to thousands of people from around the globe.

Please enjoy this first edition of Cruise Destinations. If you have any questions, comments or suggestions,please let us know.

Regards,

Kevin SheehanFCCA Chairman;CEO, Norwegian Cruise Line

The FCCA is pleased to present you with our new publication, Cruise Destinations. This important resourceis a way to showcase some of our most prominent destination partners. Every country featured here has takengreat strides to work symbiotically with the cruise industry and constantly endeavors to foster a mutually rewarding relationship. All of these nine destinations are valued Platinum Members of the FCCA. They areall true partners that can be called on and trusted in times of need.

Furthermore, they are absolutely vital to the industry because of the steps they have taken to establish theirroles and relationships. So we are glad that we can allow them this opportunity to display their importance tothe industry, the infrastructure they have put in place, the tourism offerings they provide and other assets thatmake them not just important to the cruise tourism industry, but essential to the entire tourism industry, whicharose because of their relationship with and dedication to the cruise industry. These relationships have trulyhelped these countries blossom and utilize the potential of the cruise industry.

Aruba has made a commitment to having a relationship with the cruise industry by working closely with ourindustry and developing and collaborating on ways to increase cruise calls. Because of their partnerships anddedication, they are projected to have an estimated 187 calls and 403,352 passengers in 2011.

Colombia’s consistent efforts have proven to the industry that they are dedicated to creating a safe environ-ment for the ships and passengers. There was never a question of their tourism offerings, which are bountifuland incredible, but their stigma had prevented full actualization of the cruise industry’s benefit. Now that theyhave worked with the lines to overcome this obstacle, they have seen substantial growth both in passengersand calls. In particular, the Port of Cartagena has had a 57% increase in passenger calls in the past 10 years.

Dominican Republic has shown their status as a valued partner of the industry through their role as a the hostof last year’s FCCA Conference & Trade Show and their constant improvements to tailor themselves as a cruisedestination by catering to the industry and passengers. They are expected to see 150 calls and 332,225 passen-gers because of the relationship they have formed with the industry and the infrastructure they have developed.

Guadeloupe Islands has been far more active with the cruise industry. They are working hard in partnershipwith the cruise industry to learn how to increase their traffic. The future is in their hands, and it should bebright. They are expected to see a 12% increase in 2011 over their 2009 passenger statistics, seeing 96,070passengers, opposed to the 85,712 received in 2009.

Mexico has a very diverse offering because of their size and 19 ports. This variety and uniqueness has justbegun to be tapped and still has potential for growth beyond the five million annual passengers they haveseen for the past years, especially because of the strides they have taken to work with the industry. Their Sec-retary of Tourism has now partnered with the cruise industry to delve into their new and one of a kind oppor-tunities under their tagline, “The Mexico you thought you knew.”

Panama was always known for their Canal and looked to the cruise industry to enter the tourism sector.This has been a tremendous vehicle for Panama to promote their tourism product and benefit their econ-omy. In 2011, they will see 191,976 passengers, a 7% increase over the 179,259 passengers they servedin 2009.

Puerto Rico’s success as a major homeport and port of call came with growing pains. Now, Puerto Rico hasa clear vision and a firm hand on the steering wheel. Because of their partnership with the FCCA and thecruise industry, they have been able to learn what they needed to do to chart a route of greatness and are wellunderway as will be exhibited when they host this years FCCA Cruise Conference and Trade Show, October3-7, 2011. They are projected to have an estimated 399 calls and 1,026,710 passengers in 2011.

Sint Maarten has grown from 105,000 cruise passengers in 1980 to attracting more than one million. This isfrom their constant contact and efforts to emplace the proper infrastructure and amenities for the cruise linesand passengers. Currently, they successfully implemented their vision to bring all partners from the privatesectors to the table. Sint Maarten will see a growth from 985,074 passengers in 2009 to 1,276,373 in 2011—a 30% increase.

U.S. Virgin Islands has developed a security plan that has been shared and copied by many destinations thatallows for effective communication with the cruise industry during any situation. This communication withthe industry helps explain why they have grown from 1,353,163 passengers and 481 calls in 2009 to 1,701,945passengers and 554 calls in 2011—26% and 15% increases, respectively. USVI also had the highest per pas-senger out of the 29 destinations reviewed in BREA’s Economic Impact Study, at $193.22.

Yes, the cruise industry provides a vital economic impact for many destinations, and many more want to beable to optimize its opportunities. But to do this, it takes constant effort. Establishing the proper infrastructureand offerings is essential. To accomplish this, it is necessary to partner with the cruise industry to learn whatthey need and how to enact and emplace it. Once this partnership is engaged, it becomes easy to see how reciprocal the relationship can be.

Respectfully yours,

Michele M. PaigePresident, FCCA

Welcome MessageWelcome Message Welcome MessageWelcome Message

ArubaAruba

FCCA Cruise Destinations 5Content provided by: Aruba Tourism Authority

A


Aruba rang in 2010 with a record-setting 2009 cruisepassenger arrivals, 606,970 visitors, and the news thatCarnival Cruise Lines’ Miracle would be making 16calls to Aruba from October 2010 up to and includingMarch 2011.

This could mean an additional flow of 32 thousandcruise visitors to our shores and the perfect opportu-nity to showcase the Bo Aruba (Your Aruba, a mega“Urban and Neighborhood Renewal” project). Theambitious four-year, $350 million USD infrastructuralinvestment project consists of the renovation of Oran-jestad and its surrounding neighborhoods, the con-struction of a centralized plaza in the downtown areaand the conversion of the current container port intoa recreational area where beachgoers can enjoy andrelax in a user-friendly environment.

Along with all of these exciting new developments,Aruba now offers visitors the opportunity to findample information about their cruise product onwww.aruba.com, with the site offering a glimpse of aseries of new projects to be fully implemented. Someof these exciting new products include destination

wedding opportunities for cruise visitors, resort daypasses, special discounts for Crew Members and aWelcome Back Program developed with private sec-tor partners.

The Aruba Ports Authority is ready to begin theprocess of investing an estimated US $35 million tomove the current container port in Oranjestad to theirnew Multi-Cargo Sea Terminal at Barcadera. With thereopening of the Barcadera Port for containerizedcargo, the Government of Aruba expects the terminalto be used as a potential small hub for Free-Zone orTransshipment Cargo. The new multi-cargo sea ter-minal at the Barcadera site shall be implemented witha design, build, finance, operate, maintain and transferConcession Agreement (DBFOMT).

APA N.V. and the Government of Aruba have decidedthat the Barcadera project will be implemented as aPublic Private Partnership (PPP) under the LandlordModel. While APA will be responsible for the invest-ments in and maintenance of basic quay-infrastruc-ture, dredging of the navigation channels, marineservices, land leasing and port administration, the

This the Best of Times for

Aruba’s Cruise Industry…

FCCA Cruise Destinations8

concessionaire will be responsible for the investmentsin terminal infrastructure, labor and operational activ-ities. The total combined investment by APA and theconcessionaire is estimated at between USD $54 andUSD $62 million. The project is estimated to be fullyoperational about one and a half years after the sign-ing of the Concession Contract takes place.

The relocation of the container port opens up newpossibilities and opportunities to further develop theisland’s cruise industry, as well, which will surely en-compass the improvement of the quality of life in thecity centre and the livelihood of the business and ac-tivities that operate in the capital of Oranjestad.Aruba will be better prepared to greet even more ofthe big ships with renovations and beautificationplans scheduled by the Aruba Ports Authority and theGovernment.

Among the latest Government initiatives are theCaribbean’s Longest Linear Park, which includes:pedestrian areas and bike paths, restaurant terraces

and outdoor dining, walkways to connect museums /cultural attractions and outdoor areas to showcaselocal Aruban art.

Located just 2 1/2 hours by air from Miami and 4hours from New York City, Aruba is ideally posi-tioned in the southernmost outer fringes of theCaribbean hurricane belt, boasts year-round coolingtrade winds, perfect weather with average annual tem-peratures of 82˚F and less than 20 inches of rainfallper year. Aruba offers 28 luxurious hotels/resorts,championship golf courses, sumptuous day spas, vi-brant casinos and nightlife, extraordinary interna-tional and local cuisine in a wide span of settings,renowned name-brand shops and boutiques, excitingland and water activities, art galleries and museums,world-famous music festivals and much more to bediscovered. The backdrop of a cosmopolitan tropicaldestination of warm, hospitable people is the perfectdestination for first-time guests and loyal return visi-tors who come back to Aruba at a 55% rate, the mostin the Caribbean.

ColombiaColombia

FCCA Cruise Destinations 11©2011 Princess Cruises. Ships of Bermudan Registry.

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Content provided by: Proexport ColombiaContent provided by: Proexport Colombia

N


Nestled on the northern coast of South America near the

equator, Colombia is blessed with a tropical climate that

is equally pleasant year round—nearly 365 days of

sunshine paired with mild nights. With shorelines on

both the Pacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea, Colombia

boasts beautiful natural landscapes with topography that

ranges from stunning white-sand beaches to the tallest

seaside snow-capped peak in the world.

In Colombia’s vibrant musical scene, gastronomical

delights and tourist attractions, as well as in its

autochthonous cultural and artistic activities, there is a

sense of well–being that the international press identifies

as the best kept tourist secret in the world, calling it one

of the top ten must-see destinations.

In recent years, the country has established an image of

stability as a result of aligning economic growth and de-

velopment with the environment and the population of

each region.

Colombia’s cruise destinations provide a variety of

experiences for cruise passengers, from the vibrant

contemporary city of Cartagena de Indias to Santa Marta,

the magical and oldest city on continental America and

a site where Indian cultural heritage and an extraordinary

diversity of landscapes and beaches are mixed together.

CarTagena de IndIas

Recently described as a “hidden retreat” by Travel +

Leisure magazine and “a fairytale city of romance,

legends and sheer beauty” by Lonely Planet, Cartagena

de Indias is a port not to be missed.

Founded in 1533 on a wide, sheltered harbor on the

Caribbean coast, Cartagena de Indias was once one of the

wealthiest ports in the New World. The high, salt-

bleached walls that circumscribe its Old City were built

to thwart pirates and privateers during the height of the

Spanish colonial era in the 1600s. Now a UNESCO World

Heritage site, the Old City preserves the rich history and

culture of days gone by, while the rest of the seaport pul-

sates like a salsa party with trendy hotels and restaurants,

designer boutiques, emerald shops and sizzling nightlife.

Port of Cartagena

The Port of Cartagena de Indias is managed by the So-

ciedad Porturia Regional de Cartagena de Indias. With

over 12 years of experience and strategically located

within the urban area of the city, the port provides the

cruise lines with the latest technology and excellent

services for the inland logistics:

• The Cruise Ship Terminal is located in a large, well-

protected bay with a depth of 45 feet.

• The access channel is 492 feet wide, well managed

and lighted.

• 8 docking positions with no size restrictions, capable

of receiving all current cruise vessels.

• Different types of services including, but not limited

to, drinking water, waste disposal, provisioning and

bunkers.

• The Cruise Ship Terminal is located less than two

miles from the old city, five miles from the Rafael

Nunez international Airport.

• A Duty Free Store and shopping area, Juan Valdez

Coffee store, restaurants, information booth,

independent city tours, telephones and Internet access

are all available at the port.

• The Port provides services 24 hours a day, all year

round.

Five Things to do in Cartagena

1. Visit the Walled City

Here, you can see the Clock Tower built in the 18th cen-

tury; the tower rises above the main gate to enter the

walled city and is considered the symbol of Cartagena.

One can visit the Customs Plaza, which is guarded by

the statue of Christopher Columbus; it is the biggest

plaza in the city and home to the Casa de las Aduanas

(Customs Office). Cartagena de Indias was the third and

final site of the New World Spanish Inquisition. Inside

the walled city, one can visit the Palace of the Inquisi-

tion, where hundreds of witches and other heretics were

tortured and executed. Heredia Theater, a center for

the arts and cultural events built in 1911, is a true gem


and one not be missed. The Walled City is also home of

The Bovedas Quarter; this military Quarter was used

as a lodging site for the troops, military provisions and

stores in the past and is now a market, featuring hand-

crafts from all over the country. The Church of Santo

Domingo is the oldest church in Cartagena, built in the

late 17th century. Make sure to visit the Gold Museum,

a cultural hotspot where visitors can see an important

collection of valuable pre-Columbian gold artifacts and

ceramic pieces, along with numerous artifacts made by

the Zenu Indians.

2. Visit the Rosario Islands

Just 45 minutes away by boat is one of Colombia’s most

prominent underwater natural reserves: a 23-island ar-

chipelago by the name of Rosario Islands that has

turquoise-colored waters and one of the most important

coral reefs on the Caribbean coast. Alternatives include

the Peninsula of Barú, with its glistening white-sand

beaches and the Island of Múcura in the Gulf of Mor-

rosquillo, accessible by sea from Cartagena (2 hours by

speed boat).

3. Enjoy the Sun on the Beach

At Marbella and Bocagrande Beaches, one can prac-

tice and enjoy several water sports and then cool off with

a refreshing drink at one of the beachside kiosks. Make

sure to try a fruit salad prepared by one of the famous

“palenqueras” (fruit vendors).

4. Shopping

Shopping in Cartagena is a real pleasure. Handicrafts,

Emeralds and Antiques are the three items that tourists

can buy exclusively in Cartagena, as they are not

found anywhere else in the world in this quantity and

quality. Tourists can also find a great selection of re-

gional handicrafts on display at the vaults and in

stores in the historic downtown, as well as in most

tourist centers. Although emeralds originate in other

parts of the country, more jewelry stores specialize in

this precious gem in Cartagena. In addition, antique

lovers will be in heaven exploring the 40 antique

shops in the historic walled center of the city along

Santa Teresa, Baloco, Santo Domingo, La Mantilla

and La Inquisition streets.

5. Experience the Vibrant Cuisine and Nightlife

Nights in Cartagena are famous for their romanticism,

charm and “rumba” (party atmosphere). Enjoy the

Caribbean and international cuisine in the city’s restau-

rants, atop fortress walls, in a museum or on a plaza facing

a monumental 17th-century church. Take a ride in a

horse-drawn carriage or in a “chiva” (a traditional open-

sided bus) along the narrow streets of this small world

that lies at the heart of the city. Enjoy sun, salsa, val-

lenato and countless other rhythms played by folk music

groups in a variety of atmospheres ranging from discos

to open-air venues.

sanTa MarTa

Located on the northeastern Caribbean coast of Colom-

bia and at the foot of the highest coastal mountain range

in the world, “La Sierra Nevada,” Santa Marta has a dry

climate with an average temperature of 82°F and a pop-

ulation of 410,309 people.

Founded in 1525 by Spanish conqueror Rodrigo de

Bastidas, Santa Marta was the first city to be founded in

Colombia and second in South America, after Cumaná

(1521) in Venezuela. Set against the backdrop of the

Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, the city is one of great

contrast, providing visitors a mix of history, Native

American cultural heritage, charming people and an

extraordinary diversity of landscapes and beaches.

The oldest city in South America and possessor of an

unrivalled architectural heritage, Santa Marta is best

known today as an adventure destination. Graced by the

world’s tallest seaside mountain that rises nearly 19,000

feet, this is the land of the Arhuaco and the Kogui abo-

riginal tribes that resisted colonization. Santa Marta is

famous for sites of extreme natural beauty: Admire the

natural pools of Quebrada Valencia and Cinto, consid-

ered to be one of the most beautiful bays in the Ameri-

cas; visit the archaeological remains at Ciudad Perdida

(The Lost City); and experience the spectacular Tayrona

National Natural Park.

Another site in Santa Marta is the land of Aracataca, the

birthplace of Nobel Prize winner Gabriel Garcia Mar-

quez, and of a time in history that came to an end with

the death of Liberator Simón Bolívar, whose remains are

preserved at his estate on the outskirts of the city. This

beautiful country estate, “Quinta de San Pedro Alejan-

drino,” has served as a venue for many fantasy-filled

business events.

Port of Santa Marta

The Santa Marta Maritime Terminal is managed by the

Sociedad Portuaria de Santa Marta S.A. The port

provides the cruise lines the latest technology and

excellent services for inland logistics, including:

• Proximity to the urban area of the city, walking

distance from the old city and places of interest.

• Safe, deep waters with a depth of 60 feet.

• Seven docking sites in prime conditions. With no size

restrictions, the docking sites are able to receive any

cruise vessel.

• Services of drinking water, waste disposal, provisioning

and bunkers.

• A Duty Free Store, restaurants, city tours, telephones

and Internet access available at the port 24 hours a

day, all year round.

An Insider’s Guide to Colombia’s Most Historical Ports

Cartagena de Indias, ColombiaSanta Marta, Colombia


Five Things to do in santa Marta

1. Visit Tayrona National Natural Park

More than 37,000 acres of palm trees, bays, beaches and

seas with strong currents—perfect for surfing—mangrove

swamps and coral reefs share this fascinating place with

hundreds of species of mammals, bird species and rep-

tiles. Add to that several archaeological remains of the

Tayrona people—a pre-Colombian population—and this

becomes a one-of-a-kind destination on the Caribbean

coast. Horseback tours, raft trips down the Don Diego

River, with its rapids and falls, and long hikes to places

like La Piscina or El Cabo are especially worthwhile in

this amazing park. Lodging is easy and memorable at

campsites, traditional tourist inns or at Ecohabs (romantic

modern replicas of traditional Tayrona dwellings).

2. Visit the Historical Center

Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino is an 18th-century villa

where the Liberator Simon Bolivar died in 1830. Today,

the villa is divided into three main tourist attractions:

the main house, the Bolivarian Museum of Contempo-

rary Arts and the Tayrona Museum. The Cathedral is a

historical site not to be missed. Built in 1760, it serves

as a national monument to this day. Lastly, the Customs

House is the oldest house in America built in 1530 and

now hosts the Tayrona Museum.

3. Visit the Lost City

A 14th-century city built high in the Sierra Nevada de

Santa Marta. At 18,942 feet, it is one of the largest pre-

Columbian towns discovered in the Americas.

4. Visit the Village of Taganga

This village of fishermen and seagulls, just 15 minutes

from Santa Marta, is a haven for diving and snorkeling en-

thusiasts because of its clear, calm waters. In Taganga, you

can find an authentic fishing village with its typical homes.

5. Visit Mamancana Natural Reserve Park

Mamancana boasts nearly 1,400 acres of tropical forest

and experiences in hang gliding, canopying, paragliding,

motor gliding, rock and tree climbing, mountain biking,

rappelling, down hilling, horseback riding, diving, bird

watching and all-terrain vehicle tours.

san andres, PrOVIdenCIa and sanTaCaTaLIna

A Trio of Enchanting Islands in the Caribbean

San Andrés, the capital of an archipelago that lies about

435 miles northwest of the continental coast of Colom-

bia, is one of the country’s most enticing destinations.

English and Dutch corsairs, buccaneers and adventur-

ers—their ships laden with slaves—arrived on these

Caribbean island centuries ago and discovered a colorful

paradise. Surrounded by “the seven-colored sea,” the is-

land offers white-sand beaches, a natural swimming

pool called Poxe Hole that is carved out of coral rock,

snorkeling and diving and a plethora of nautical sports,

ranging from jet skiing to kite surfing.

Downtown San Andrés offers lively restaurants, bars,

nightlife and is a haven for shopping lovers. A free port

with no value-added tax, San Andrés has more than 500

shops offering well-known brands of perfume, liquor,

clothing, handicrafts, jewelry and accessories. Sunset

outings on the Morgan Galleon, accompanied by the

beats of reggae and soca Caribbean music and dining on

local seafood bathed in coconut milk, are among visi-

tors’ favorite activities.

A close neighbor and sister of San Andrés, Providencia

is considered one of the Caribbean’s loveliest islands.

Surrounded by a coral reef, it is joined to the island of

Santa Catalina by the Lovers Bridge.

Five things to do in san andres

1. Diving the Cays

San Andrés is a diver’s paradise thanks to several small

islands nearby that are surrounded by coral reefs. Johnny

Cay, The Aquarium and Haynes Cay are a little more

than a mile away from San Andrés, while the Bolívar

and Albuquerque Cays lie 16 nautical miles to the south-

west. The nearby cays are ideal for relaxing, while the

distant ones are perfect for snorkeling and diving due to

their extensive coral reefs.

2. Practice Water Sports

Water activities including windsurfing, kite surfing, sail-

ing, water skiing, snorkeling, scuba diving, jet skiing

and deep sea fishing are all offered. Name the water

sport, and it can be arranged on San Andrés, Providencia

and Santa Catalina.

3. Visit Morgan’s Cave

The famous pirate Henry Morgan resided on the archi-

pelago, and it was from here that he planned various as-

saults on galleons laden with gold destined for Europe.

It is said that his treasure was hidden in Morgan´s Cave,

a small, deep lake within a cave of coral rock.

4. Visit la Loma Neighborhood

This traditional neighborhood of San Andres deserves

special mention on account of the unique architecture

of the houses, with spacious gardens and bright colors

that match the blue of the sky perfectly. This inheri-

tance comes from the Anglo- West Indies tradition and

is present in numerous houses, which are characterized

by tall structures that allow the breezes to blow under

the house.

5. Visit the Aquarium

This cay has excellent beaches. At the aquarium, the

small fish swim amid the people. You can arrive to

Haynes Cay by practically walking over water; the two

islands are united by a coral bar that teems with life.

For more information about

Colombia’s historical ports,

contact Proexport Colombia or

visit us at www.colombia.travel

Proexport Colombia

Colombian Government Trade Bureau

601 Brickell Key Dr. Ste 608

Miami, FL 33131

Camilo Duque, Leisure Tourism Director

E-mail: [email protected]

Tel: 305-374-3144

Fax: 305-372-9365

www.proexport.com.co

Johnny Cay, San Andres, Colombia


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Dominican RepublicDominican Republic

Content provided by: Ministry of Tourism, Dominican Republic

T


The Dominican Republic (DR) is a land of brilliantcontrasts, like stunning white-sand beaches nearmodern cities and quaint towns; mountains withrivers and breathtaking waterfalls; beautiful, ariddeserts; saltwater lakes; lagoons and mysteriouscaves. Discovered by Christopher Columbus in1492, the DR boasts fascinating history, includingSpanish royalty, pirates of the Caribbean, thrillingmusic and rich arts and culture. And with threemajor cruise ship ports, the DR has it all for cruiseship passengers.

The DR rests in the heart of the Caribbean on the east-ern two-thirds of Hispaniola, the second largest islandin the Caribbean. This location makes the country ex-tremely well suited for flexible cruise itinerary plan-ning, as well as easy transfers around the country, dueto excellent road and airport infrastructure.

The Port of Don Diego and Sans Souci in Santo

Domingo, the La Romana International Tourist Pierin La Romana and the Samaná Bay and Cayo Lev-antado Piers boast nearby sophisticated cities, charm-ing towns, secluded beaches, intriguing museums,

lively music and arts, unique shopping and eco-ad-venture tours.

sophisticated santo domingoUrban, sophisticated and historic, Santo Domingo isone of the most important and impressive cities in allof the Americas. With a metropolitan population es-timated at three million residents, the city is locatedon the Caribbean Sea at the mouth of the Ozama River

and is the oldest, continuously inhabited European set-

tlement in the Americas. Amid its world-class arts, ho-tels, restaurants and shopping, you will find theColonial City, named a world heritage site by UN-ESCO in 1990.

The new Don Diego and Sans Souci Terminals are animportant part of the Port of Santo Domingo and wel-come the world’s most venerable cruise ships toAmerica’s first city. Sans Souci Terminal is a destina-tion in itself, with a new activity every month to greetcruise passengers, including folkloric ballet, carnivalcelebrations, Dominican welcome drinks and sou-venirs. From Sans Souci, cruise guests can ride horse-drawn colonial carriages to the historic Colonial city.

new in santo domingo:Chu Chu Colonial Train

Opening in March 2011, the new Chu Chu Colonialtourist train offers an educational and cultural bird’seye view of Santo Domingo and the Colonial City’smost important monuments: architecture and history.Tours will run seven days a week from 9:00am until5:00pm and supply passengers with audio guidesavailable in five languages.

Dominican Fiesta

The new Dominican Fiesta tour is an experience thatimmerses cruise guests in dynamic Dominican cul-ture. The tour includes a taste of Dominican carnival,merengue, cigars, rum and a sampling of deliciousDominican gastronomy. The famous Chateau de la

Fuente, with the Tabacalera Fuente, producer of themost desired Dominican cigars, is featured on thistour, where you will learn how to become a cigar con-noisseur, recognize different types of tobacco and paircigars with Dominican Grand Reserve rums.

Chocolate, Clay and Sugar

Tour the old sugar plains of north Santo Domingo;watch artisans make pottery; and see how deliciousDominican chocolate is prepared. A cluster of inde-pendent local farmers produce some of the country’shighest quality cocoa beans. Here, you will appreciateall stages of cocoa growing; handpick cocoa pods;and participate in all of the steps of the harvestingprocess. A visit to the local plant where independentgrowers come together to process beans according tothe highest standards of Fair Trade and Organic Cer-tification is a highlight.

Churches of the Colonial City

This enriching tour begins in the Colonial City, whichwas built around its magnificent and historicchurches. The rich art and history of this settlementwill be narrated as you visit the only late gothic con-structions in the New World, including the Santa Bar-bara church, the Convento de los Dominicos, theChapel of La Altagracia and the Chapel of NuestraSeñora del Perpetuo Socorro, with their gothic-stylechapels.

The Art Route

Designed for the traveler who wants to see and appre-ciate Dominican art, you will view important artworkfrom renowned Dominican artists, such as Ramon


Oviedo, Guillo Perez, Alberto Ulloa and AmayaSalazar. During the tour, you will also enjoy a privateviewing of several of the area’s most important artgalleries.

santo domingo attractions:Colonial City

The Colonial City is the perfect starting point for vis-itors to discover Santo Domingo. The first street inthe Americas is Calle Las Damas, the site of numer-ous historic buildings, including the Ozama Fortress,the oldest fortress in the Americas. There is also thehouse of Nicolás de Ovando, governor of SantoDomingo in the early 1500’s and a ruthless warrioragainst the Taino Indians.

National Parks & Gardens

Los Tres Ojos is a 50-foot-deep cave with three lagoons surrounded by stalagmites and lush vegeta-tion and located just five minutes from the ColumbusLighthouse. At about 7.7 square miles, the Santo

Domingo Botanical Gardens is the largest in theCaribbean and is comprised of exhibits of the naturalflora of the island, palm trees, orchids and exoticplants. It is perfect for nature enthusiasts.

World-Class Shopping

Santo Domingo will charm even the most discrimi-nating shoppers, with some of the favorite malls in-cluding the newly developed Blue Mall, whichfeatures Louis Vuitton, Armani, Cartier and more; theAcropolis Mall, with its European stores and restau-rants; and the ultra modern Novo-Centro that is trans-

forming the capital city’s skyline. Another great storeis Megacentro, Santo Domingo’s largest shopping mall.

Unforgettable La romanaTwo hours east of Santo Domingo, the La RomanaInternational Tourist Pier is located in the picturesquetown of La Romana, another favorite stop for cruiseships. La Romana is home to the luxurious Casa deCampo Resort and is one of the newest members ofthe Leading Hotels of the World. The resort featureschampionship golf on its magnificent Teeth-of-the-Dog, Dye Fore and Links golf courses. Along withgolf enthusiasts throughout the world, Casa de Campoattracts international celebrities and dignitaries for itssumptuous seclusion, polo fields, villas, marina andpampering spa. Nearby Catalina Island is also fullyready to receive anchored cruise ships with the facil-ities that can accommodate up to 2,000 guests.

new in La romana:KANDELA, the Show

Recently updated with a new approach, the spectacu-lar KANDELA show is a Dominican extravaganza.KANDELA features the music, rhythms and dance ofthe region in a breathtaking 5,000-seat Grecian styleamphitheater at Altos de Chavon, inaugurated by thelate Frank Sinatra.

La romana attractions:Altos de Chavón

A must-see in the area is Altos de Chavón, a replicaof a 16th-century Mediterranean-style village locatedon the upper part of the Chavón River. Coral block

and terra cotta brick buildings house artists’ studios,craft workshops, galleries, stores and restaurants. This cultural center features the Chavón amphitheater,an Archeological Regional Museum; the Amber/Lari-mar Museum, where you can learn how Mother Nature created these natural gemstones; art galleries;St. Stanislaus Church; chic shops, such as the CasaMontecristo Cigar Boutique; and wonderful dining.

Cueva de Las Maravillas (Cave of Wonders)

The Cueva de las Maravillas is located on the SanPedro Highway toward La Romana. It is home tothe most important sample of rock art left by theTaino people in the Caribbean and features amaz-ing rock formations, such as stalactites, stalag-mites and columns. The mysterious and wondrouscave art created by the Taino people includes 276pictographies.

Living Underwater Museums

Fascinating Underwater Archaeological Reserves arelocated in front of the coast of the Bayahibe hotelzone. Shipwrecked galleons dating to the early 18th

century have been recreated here to portray how theylooked when originally discovered by marine biolo-gists. Both snorkelers and scuba divers can visit themuseums.

Tabacalera de García

The García Tobacco operation is a unique cultural ex-perience. You will discover how the brands of highestprestige cigars are made: Montecristo, Romeo &Juliet, H. Upmann, Don Diego, Santa Damiana, Veg-

Dominican Republic Has It All

GET A CLOSER VIEW

GoDominicanRepublic.com

Even before you set foot ashore, you realize how truly extraordinary Dominican Republic is. The arrival of the cruise ship to any of the three world-class harbors: Santo Domingo, La Romana or Samaná, is nothing short of spectacular, with views of the impressive mountain landscape, wonderful marine life and other splendid sights as you travel through. Sail to the Dominican Republic. The adventure of your dreams is closer than you think.


aFina, Onyx and many others. Today, the DR is theworld’s largest exporter of handmade cigars.

The Padre Nuestro Archeological Trail

The Padre Nuestro Archeological Trail, located in theNational Park of the East, leads you to unique floraand fauna, making it easy to appreciate the tropicalvegetation along the 1.25 mile route and includesareas populated by the ancient Taino Indians.

The samaná PeninsulaThe Samaná Peninsula is famous for quiet, unspoiledbeaches, radiant turquoise ocean waters, lush greenmountains with abundant coconut trees and peacefulsolitude amid lively little villages like Las Galeras,Las Terrenas and Playa Rincon. The Peninsula is a ro-mantic destination with majestic waterfalls, the se-cluded Cayo Levantado, tropical forests anduntouched mangrove reserves found in nearby LosHaitises National Park.

Each winter, thousands of humpback whales return tothe protected waters around the Samaná Peninsula,where they frolic, mate and give birth in the safety of

the DR’s Whale Sanctuary. No wonder Samaná Bayis popular with cruise ships that anchor inside its pro-tected waters.

new in samanáSamaná Visitor Center

The DR Ministry of Tourism recently opened a newvisitor information center in Samaná that featurestrained tourism experts, wireless internet access andvaluable destination insights.

Land Whale Observatory

In January 2011, the DR Ministry of Environment es-tablished the first land-whale observation point on theSamaná Peninsula, just in time for the DR’s annualwhale-watching season. The observatory is located inPunta Balandra, an ideal vista that allows visitors tocapture sightings of the hundreds of majestic hump-back whales that return to the protected waters of theSanctuary for Marine Mammals of the DR.

Zipline Canopy Tour

The most thrilling way to experience the rare beautyand majesty of Samaná is to enjoy the area’s new

Canopy Tour, which is available starting April 2011and is managed by one of the pioneers of ziplinetours. The zipline adventure begins at Juana Vicente,located just a few minutes from the Samaná Pier, andtakes you flying safely over coconut palms and lushgreen valleys with spectacular mountain views ofSamaná Bay and Cayo Levantado.

samaná Peninsula attractions:Beaches, Towns and Islands

A short ten-minute tender ride from the cruise anchorin Samaná Bay takes passengers to the pier and beachin Samaná City and to the island of Cayo Levantado,where perfect day-trips include swimming, snorkelingand diving. Visitors can also reach the area’s greatbeaches, including Playa Bonita and Cozon, with ro-bust waves, and the more tranquil beaches in Las Ter-renas and El Portillo, all on the northern side of thePeninsula. The more remote Playa Rincón on the ex-treme east features a spectacular one-mile bay.

El Limon Waterfall

This is truly a great adventure that you will never forget.This trip takes you to the interior of the peninsula, wherethe mountains reach a height of 2,100 feet. You will goon horseback for 30 minutes along very steep paths withincredible tropical vegetation, wildlife, coffee and cocoaplants and a great variety of tropical fruits.

Humpback Whale-Watching

More than 50,000 people visit Samaná each year towatch the humpback whales during their mating sea-son between Jan. 15 and March 15. The DR protectsthese gentle mammals from being hunted so that theymay enjoy the warm waters surrounding the Peninsulaas they mate, give birth and care for their young.

Los Haitises National Park

Easily reached by a short boat ride across the Bay is LosHaitises National Park. This area is known as having oneof the most important forests and mangrove reserves in theentire Caribbean, complete with keys and caves. You can

only enter the park with a certified guide.

Souvenir Shopping

You will find a wide variety of shops for souvenirs inSamaná City and Las Terrenas. It is important to notethat Samaná is one tourist area in the DR where creditcards are not as readily accepted. It is best to bringcash, traveler’s checks or use your ATM card at oneof the banks in town.

GuadeloupeIslands

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Content provided by: Guadeloupe Islands Tourist Board

T


it all seems more dreamlike than real. As Guadeloupeis the favorite land for sports and nature-based leisureactivities, walks, exploring canyons, mountain biking,hikes and treks all give you the opportunity to soakin this rejuvenating bath of greenery.

Guadeloupian culture, shaped by its turbulent historyand diverse ethnic mix, cannot be reduced merely tothe term “Creolified”.

A land of different influences—African, European,Indian and American—Guadeloupe is the guardian ofa multiple identity, the bearer of a society that is con-stantly being transformed by new influences. So thereare several Guadeloupes to discover, depending onwhich little window you peek through. Back in vogueare Indian rites, the African memory or even thequadrille of the 17th-century colonists. Of course,that’s what entices lovers of the archipelago to comeback again and again, and often stay for good. For thatunique soul—warm, sophisticated and proud—is the“cargo of humanity” evoked by Guy TYROLIEN inILES (“Bales d’Or”). Yet it’s in the streets that youfind real Guadeloupian culture, rather than the muse-ums. Its literature, music, painting and crafts openyour eyes wide to a whole complex and passionate re-ality. So listen carefully; sharpen your senses; openyour heart; and you will grasp just some of theessence of this enchanting world.

A land of Flavors

On the Guadeloupe islands, the magic of the culturalmelting pot and huge variety of spices has let a culi-nary genie out of the lamp, casting spells over thegreat Creole restaurants, like the "roulottes de bokits."Being island-based brings a natural affinity with fishproducts, and Guadeloupe is indeed the secondbiggest consumer of fish in the world (per head ofpopulation). Fish bouillon, clam chowder, grilled lob-ster, and queen conch fricassee are some of the suc-culent dishes you’ll love tasting.

With more than a third of the land dedicated to farm-ing, this agricultural and rural economy means thereis a wide range of young vegetables. Guadeloupianswere ‘green’ before their time with their Creole gar-dens of fruit orchards and vegetable patches. The culi-nary classics are still hearty dishes, eaten by all thefamily or at great festive meals.

Proof, if it’s needed, of the incredible fusion of cul-tures—Caribbean, European, Indian and African, en-riched by the influences of the Middle East—is found inthis gastronomy. Gourmets and gourmands alike will beoverwhelmed by the fertile land of the Guadeloupe is-lands and its gastronomic expertise, relishing the deli-cious smell of a curry, tasting the sweet flesh of Juliemangoes, drinking a freshly squeezed juice made from“péyi” cherries, or savoring the aromas of a vintage rum.

Basse-Terre

Dominated by the imposing silhouette of its old Lady(La Soufrière volcano, 4813 ft/ 1467 m), Basse-Terre isone of the wings forming the “Butterfly” of Guadeloupe.

Basse-Terre is a mountainous massif, covered by amagnificent tropical forest of almost 66 square miles(17000 ha), which has been a designated National Parksince 1989. It has lots of well marked hiking trails ofvarying degrees of difficulty. Its lush vegetation (over3000 species of trees) provides shelter for an exoticwildlife, free from poisonous animals. With its water-falls, cascades, basins, parks and different plantation,it reveals all of its natural charm! Beaches of pebbleand sand in shades of ochre, brown, black and pink lineits coast, and it has a fantastic underwater reserve ofworld renowned Jacques COUSTEAU Reserve (witha submerged bust of him). Basse-Terre provides ampleevidence of the cultural diversity of the island: Catholicchurch and Hindu temple, archaeological remains ofthe first inhabitants and the 17th-century military fort.The town of the same name, the administrative centerof the Department is a real history book.

Grande-Terr

Grande-Terre, also known as the Little Brittany of theAntilles, forms one wing of the Butterfly of theGuadeloupian archipelago. Unlike its twin, Basse-Terre, it is flat and formed from limestone.


The Islands of Guadeloupe—Basse-Terre, Grande-Terre, La Desirade, Les Saintes (Terre-de-Haut andTerre-de-Bas), and Marie-Galante—welcome you tothe Caribbean!

You’ll have an unforgettable stay, enjoying the widerange of activities offered on the two large islandsforming the “butterfly” and on the smaller dependen-cies. The four main themes of our Activities Pro-gram—Blue, Green, Cultural and Flavors—willtempt you to try our water sports.

The Guadeloupe islands are certainly some of themost beautiful places for water sports.

Caressed by the trade winds, tempered by the everpresent sun all year round, lashed by the AtlanticOcean and lapped by the Caribbean Sea, the Guade-

loupian archipelago is definitely blessed by the gods.A treat for the eyes as they encounter the incredibleshades of blue of the Caribbean Sea. Then a treat forthe senses with a range of water sports so expansivethat you won’t even be able to get through them allduring your vacation. Stretching out on the sand withyour toes dipped in the water; riding the sea on a jetski; diving in search of coral and sponges; seeing thewind swell your sails under an unblemished sky; find-ing out all about the nature reserve of Grand Cul-de-Sac Marin; taking a catamaran trip in search of whitesand bank. You can do anything in the water, and itfeels so good! Relaxation, stimulation, freedom, feel-ing good…

Everyone will think your photos have beentouched up and that your vacation stories are a bitexaggerated.

The wonders of nature, to be consumed without mod-eration!!!

Getting away from it all to the “land of verdant hills.”Funny how this expression seems perfect for Guade-loupe. For on Basse-Terre, if there is one color thatstands out, it’s certainly green! Or, rather, greens, forthe ever changing light seems caught up in a play ofcolors with thousands of plant species. Trees, ferns,epiphytic leaves, cannas, and wild orchid do their ut-most to surprise the freshly landed visitors! Learning topaint on Guadeloupe certainly changes your appreci-ation of color, as the desire to represent nature leadsstraight to the purest shades. The bitter, fresh smell ofvolcanic earth is just as compulsive as the brightsplashes of color. This exotic picture is completed majestically by the roar of waterfalls in the forest andthe crystal clear lapping of a gently cascading river;

The Five Sides of Paradise


Grande-Terre is a limestone plateau perfectly suitedto growing sugar cane, which covers most of the island. You will realize the importance of this agricul-tural activity if you visit the GARDEL sugar factoryor the Bellevue distillery, located in the town of LeMoule, the former colonial capital. The magnificentshaded beaches of white sand along its coastline pro-vide brilliant sunbathing places if you want to lazeabout. Calm lagoons of turquoise sea, as well as wavesports, are a joy for surfers and windsurfers. Lots ofrestaurants and hotels will guarantee you a taste of thebest Creole cuisine, balmy Guadeloupian nights andthe range of nighttime activities (casinos, discos, revues, etc.). With its natural beauty spots (Pointe desChâteaux, the cliffs of la Grande Vigie, the GrandsFonds. etc.), Pointe-à-Pitre, the economic capital withits historical monuments, museums, spice and flowermarkets with intoxicating smells, and the sugar canelandscapes of Port-Louis, Grande-Terre offers a widerange of choice to suit every visitor.

La Desirade “Infinite Nature”

The island of La Désirade has been desired by somany in its history! From a distance, its shape lookslike the keel of an upturned boat. Life on La Désiradeis timeless. Peace and simplicity characterize this tab-ular rock that is quite different from all of the othersin the archipelago. In fact, nothing can disturb thetranquil atmosphere that reigns on the island, nor af-fect the authentic character and kind welcome of its

inhabitants, mainly descendants of people from Brit-tany, Normandy and Poitou. Seven miles long (11km) and just over a mile wide (2 km), it has magnif-icent beaches of white sand and is sheltered by longcoral reefs, a delight for swimmers and divers. Onlythe south coast is inhabited. There is one single,straight road linking Grande-Anse, the main markettown, to the different communities, Les Galets, LeSouffleur and Baie-Mahault. La Désirade, just like thewild islands of Petite-Terre that are linked to it, hasan astonishing variety of plant life. You will also findsome beautiful and fascinating colonies of animals onthe verge of extinction: iguanas, agoutis, tropicbirds,etc. Gradually, the island is beginning to modernizeand is gearing up for an appropriate scale of touristdevelopment: beaches and organized hiking trails,gîte accommodations, and pleasant restaurants.

Les Saintes “The Paradise Islands”

Life rolls along quietly here. Memories of the turbu-lent past of the archipelago and the bloody naval bat-tle with the English and French fleets facing eachother off the coastline remain consigned to the historybooks.

Terre-de-Haut is renowned for its gorgeous bay withclear, turquoise waters, its spectacular sugarloafmountain, its charming village with quiet roads linedwith cute cottages. The inhabitants of Breton and Norman descent have a long tradition of fishing,

which they do in small, open boats called “sain-toises.” You can visit the Napoleon Fort with its mu-seum and its surprising exotic garden. The island’srestaurants are stocked with fresh produce on a dailybasis and offer tasty tropical cuisine. Terre-de-Baswith its beautiful beach at Grande-Anse, the remainsof the former pottery, leisurely strolls or even the tinyvillage of Petite-Anse is worth getting to know better! Less busy than its sister island, it offers its temporary guests peace and quiet, a relaxed pace oflife and the hospitality of its inhabitants.

“Marie-Galante, So True!”

Located 27 miles (43 km) from Pointe-à-Pitre, Marie-Galante (Aïchi en Caraïbes) covers an area of 61 sq.miles (158 km²). This round island, hence the nick-name “the big pancake,” with its quiet roads and var-ied plant life is the sugar cane island par excellence.Known as the island of a hundred mills, it had alreadygained a reputation for its rum by the 18th century.Vast sugar cane fields still cover most of the landtoday. On the roads, you will meet authentic ox-drawncarts, the means of transport used by farmers. Theysay it’s home to the best rums in the world, and Marie-Galante jealously guards the secrets of its culinaryspecialties on the menus of its colorful restaurants. Itsbeaches of white sand are some of the most beautifulin the Caribbean! With its hospitality and the legendary warmth of its inhabitants, Marie-Galante isauthenticity itself in the Guadeloupean archipelago.

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Basse-Terre, Grande-Terre, La Désirade, Les Saintes, Marie-Galante

the 5 sides of paradise

www.lesilesdeguadeloupe.com

Guadeloupe Islands Tourist Board

5, square de la Banque - BP 555 - 97166 Pointe-à-Pitre cedexTé l. : +590 (0)5 90 82 09 30 - Fax : +590 (0)5 90 83 89 22

E-mail : [email protected]

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The Lawn Club, Celebrity Solstice® Class ©2011 Celebrity Cruises Inc. Ships’ registry: Malta and Ecuador

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Content provided by: Mexico Tourism Board

M


Mexico has become one of the leading destinations

worldwide for cruise ship travel. In 2010, Mexico has

received 34 percent more cruise ship visitors than in

previous years. While onboard passengers can enjoy

casinos, stores, gyms, live shows, dance clubs and a

wide selection of food the ports along the coasts of

Ocean, the Mexican Caribbean and Sea of Cortes offer

unique attractions for passengers to visit while docked.

The Route of the Mexican Caribbean:

Located less than 600 nautical miles from important

ports like Galveston, New Orleans or Tampa, the Mex-

ican Caribbean adds convenience to its wide variety of

attractions for guests to enjoy a pleasant visit in Mexico.

Our guests will find a fascinating blend of ancient

Mayan and Spanish folk influences in its infinite range

of gastronomical choices. Areas full of mystical sur-

roundings, beautiful beaches with crystal clear waters

and colonial cities are waiting for the visitors who seek

perfect harmony with the environment.

Port of Progreso

Progreso is one of the largest offshore ports in the world.

Its pier has a length of more than 7 km, and it has 10

berthing positions for cargo and passenger ships.

Progreso’s Cruise and Ferry Terminal is owned and op-

erated by SSA Mexico. It has one cruise pier with 2

berths with total lengths of 330 meters. The commercial

building has several stores, parking lots for buses, taxis

and rental cars, customs and immigration facilities, rest-

rooms and private security. The terminal and pier are

separated from cargo piers.

Services to the ships include mooring, unmooring, water

and food supply.

Port of Mahahual

Costa Maya, the Western Caribbean’s first port designed

exclusively for the cruise ship industry, is strategically

located just hours from Cancun on Mexico’s southern

Yucatan Peninsula. Resembling an ancient Mayan city,

Costa Maya is able to accommodate three ships at once,

with the capability to dock Oasis- and Epic-size ships,

and entertain visitors of a destination that showcases the

ancient and colonial heritage of the Mexican Caribbean

with all of today’s conveniences. Set against the deep

turquoise sea, Costa Maya is comprised of three grand

pavilions, artisan and luxury shopping areas, a beach

club, saltwater pools, fine restaurants and bars, and all

the resources necessary to explore the surrounding jun-

gle and coral reefs. It is the region’s most complete and

diverse port, providing cultural, natural and archeolog-

ical excursions.

The Port of Cozumel:

The port of Cozumel is positioned as the most important

cruise ship destination in Mexico and one of the main

ports of call worldwide. Its modern port infrastructure

is integrated by three cruise ship terminals: the Banco

Playa Marina, the ferry terminal and the San Miguel

Maritime Terminal, which provides services to passen-

ger vessels and tender ships. This maritime terminal is

located in the heart of downtown Cozumel. Cozumel has

the capability of receiving the largest cruise ships in the

world. To this day, Cozumel has hosted ships of up to

8.5 of draft and LOA of 340 mt.

The Route of Baja and the Sea of Cortes

The natural resources of the Sea of Cortés astound in its

variety, both in the ecosystems’ found along the coast

and the variety of birds and marine life. The temperate

waters along the coast are home to several species of

whales, including the Pacific Gray, the Humpback and

occasionally the Orca. Many species of dolphin call the

Sea of Cortés home, as well as seven species of marine

turtles. In addition, there are giant Manta rays, an amaz-

ing variety of colorful tropical fish in the natural reefs

and a many varieties of shrimp in the estuaries of the

rivers and bays. Fishing is considered the main activity

in many parts of the Sea of Cortés, home to marlin, sail-

fish, tuna, swordfish and mahi mahi.

Port of Los Cabos:

Los Cabos is one of the best sport fishing locations in

the world, with abundant kinds of fish, which include

sailfish, blue marlin, dorado, wahoo, yellowtail, bar-

racuda, medregal, merely, mackerel, nicely, gilding,

horse mackerel and diverse varieties of fish guards.

Cabo San Lucas is the backstage for some of the most

famous marlin fishing tournaments in the world. Being

part of the “Mexican Riviera” cruise-ship route, it has

developed a wide range of infrastructure in behalf of the

safety and commodity for its cruise passenger visitors.

And as for handling cruise passengers, the remodeling

of Tender Docks 1 and 2 of the Wharf Pier, as well as

the enlargement of Tender Dock 5, has been established

in order to be capable of receiving ships of 1,020 feet

length.

Infrastructure:

• Four positions for simultaneous anchorage

• Walkway around the bay

• More than 150 m of band for landing stage

• Berthing for six tenders

• Dockage facilities

• Three private marinas

• Mooring facilities

• Fuel supply

• Provisioning

Port of Guaymas

As the “New Destination of the Sea of Cortes,” Port of

Guaymas is ready to welcome tourists from all around

the world with a new-state-of-the-art International


Cruise Center incorporating a Santa Fe style and mag-

nificent facilities that include 16 commercial shops.

Only two minutes from downtown and the main high-

lights of the place, convenience plays a large factor. Dis-

cover the paradise where the desert meets the sea.

Guaymas has experienced a colorful past as a port along

the Pacific coast of Mexico. It has become the most im-

portant port of the State of Sonora and one of the oldest

ports of Mexico.

Infrastructure: Berth positions: 1 / turning basin: 450 m

/ depth: 10.5 m

Port of Mazatlán

Called the “Pearl of the Pacific” for generations,

Mazatlán remains untarnished after all these years. Mod-

ern resort hotels and a busy infrastructure in the bustling

downtown core are connected by a major avenue lined

by the Malecón, the longest in the country, following the

curve of the bay. As the shrimp capital of the hemisphere,

seafood was de rigueur for visitors, and it still ranks

among the highest on a list of must-tries for visitors.


/ depth: 12 m

Port of Puerto Vallarta:

Puerto Vallarta is proud of being the second gourmet

destination following Mexico City. Restaurants offer

the best in fine dining, where the experience goes be-

yond just what’s on your plate. Cuisine ranges from typ-

ical Mexican to the Mexican chic haute cuisine to the

latest culinary offerings of the world, with the freshest

produce and seafood available. If you plan your time

right, you’ll visit during the annual Gourmet Festival

every November, a series of events you’ll never forget.

Chefs come from around the world to enjoy our shores.

Why don’t you?!


/ depth: 12 m to 14m

Port of La Paz

The haven of La Paz has long been one of the secrets of

Baja California Sur, known only to the avid fishermen.

This capital city, the largest in southern Baja, has grown

rapidly in recent years and now boasts an infrastructure

to match smaller resort towns.

Since it actually faces northwest, sunsets are enjoyed

from the Malecón in the evening. The architecture of

this small town, founded in the 16th century, harks back

to another time in Mexico.

When it comes to fishing, there are many who swear by

La Paz. The best way to see and experience some of the

outer islands on the curved coast is to live aboard a fish-

ing vessel.

One of the picturesque towns to visit in the region, about

an hour away, is Todos Santos, known as an artist’s

haven, as well as a typical sleepy colonial town.


/ depth: 13.40 m

Port of Ensenada

Ensenada meets the needs of cruise ship travelers by pro-

viding plenty of downtown enticements, dynamic shore

excursions and custom group tour packages. Each year,

approximately one half million cruise ship passengers

experience this thriving seaport’s incomparable hospital-

ity that is seeped in tradition and flavored with a cosmo-

politan twist. Enhancing Ensenada’s warm and friendly

ambience are its exceptional shopping, outstanding din-

ing, diverse recreational activities and rich array of nat-

ural, historical and cultural attractions. Located 60

nautical miles south of San Diego, Ensenada has been

one of Mexico’s top three most visited ports-of-call for

major international cruise lines for more than 25 years.

The port of Ensenada has a specialized cruise facility,

Ensenada Cruiseport Village, which features:

• 2 berths: 185 m & 163 m length with 10.0 m. draft, for

up to 3,500 pax vessels.

• A total area of 160,000 sq. meters with 48,000 sq. me-

ters for shops & entertainment.

• 200-slip marina.

• Customs & immigration checkpoints and passenger &

baggage screening in full compliance with ISPS Code.

The Sea Routes of Mexico


The Route of the Mexican Riviera

One of the most outstanding coasts in the Americas is

the exciting Pacific Coast of Mexico. A top favorite for

fishermen, sailors and travelers of all kinds, the entire

coastline of 7,828 kilometers or nearly 5,000 miles of-

fers incredible variety. Even the coastline of Baja Cal-

ifornia measures in at over 2,200 miles. You can see the

sunset and sunrise over the water from specific loca-

tions along the coast. Consider the ports of Cabo San

Lucas, Mazatlan, Puerto Vallarta, Manzanillo, Aca-

pulco, Huatulco and the recently inaugurated Puerto

Chiapas, each one of them unique in its own way and

offering a flavor that is at once truly Mexican, as well

as international and unique.

Port of Manzanillo:

Manzanillo’s enjoyable warm temperate climate, deli-

cious food and land, water, air or fire activities, along

with smiles every place you look around will certainly

make you want to come back. On a small geographic ex-

tension, Manzanillo and its surroundings are a destina-

tion of contrasting beauty.

Touristic cruise terminal:

Berth: 390 meters long capable of receiving 2 cruise

ships simultaneously / capacity: 4500 passenger /

depth: 12 m

Port of Acapulco

For cruise operations, Acapulco has two berths and

three anchoring positions. A floating pier for tenders is

located at the east end of the passenger pier, and a sec-

ond tender launch is located in front of the car terminal.

As mooring aids, the port has a mooring dolphin lo-

cated 100 m. from the east end of the pier and four

mooring buoys. A turnaround or homeport cruise op-

erations facility with 2,166 m2 is in operation with 25

counters for check in, two X-ray machines, a metal de-

tector arch, and a digital CCTV surveillance system.

In addition, an air conditioned terminal building for

transit calls with 900 m2 operates of restrooms, bars,

restaurants, retail shops, authorized ground transporta-

tion or taxi cabs, money exchange service, information

& hospitality desk and an internet & long distance call

communication center.

The passenger terminal is located in the Historic District,

which offers cruise passengers a safe and easy place for

touring just two blocks from downtown area. Many

tours are available to visitors: City Tour, Turtle Release

Tour, Nature Walk, Kayaking or snorkeling at la

Roqueta Island, Acapulco Bay Sail, Walking Tours, Hik-

ing, White Water Rafting, Horse Back Riding, Deep Sea

Fishing, Cultural & Historical Tours, Shot over Jet, Sail-

ing tours, Aztec Dinner and the Multimedia Show at the

Fort of San Diego, among others.

Bays of Huatulco

Oaxaca´s nine bays were chosen by their unique char-

acteristics, such as exceptional beauty and proximity to

important cultural and colonial attractions combined

with a perfect balance between cultural and natural

resources. This makes them ideal for attracting interna-

tional tourism.

Huatulco is now the tenth cruise receiving port in Mex-

ico, thanks to the construction of the dock, Muelle de

Cruceros de Santa Cruz, with capacity to attend 2 cruise

ships with an average of 3,350 passengers and 1,100

people in staff, each.

Located at 1,730 nautical miles from San Diego and

1,950 from San Francisco, Huatulco offers a conven-

ient location on the Pacific Ocean. Its geographical

position favors the Transcanal route: south of Aca-

pulco and north of Puerto Caldera in Costa Rica,

which is the last arrival port from Central America to

Mexico.

The complex covers a large area of spectacular land-

scape that allows people to commune with nature, par-

ticularly in the virtually unspoiled beaches of

Chachacual, Cacaluta, El Organo and Conejos.

Infrastructure

• Pier with capacity for two 4th and 5th generation

cruise ships (919 ft long by 117 ft wide and weighing

101,535 tons)

• Four berths for boarding and disembarking onto two

floating docks

• Provisioning

• Fresh water supply

• Sewage service

• Garbage service

Port of Chiapas

Puerto Chiapas is located in Southern Mexico on the

Pacific Ocean in the State of Chiapas. It has an impres-

sive infrastructure made of wood and palm, designed

and developed according to needs of the tourists and

requirements of the cruise lines. This Cruise Terminal

offers high quality services, like tourist information,

tour operators, guided tours, car rental, taxi, internet,

public phones, bars, restaurants, medical assistance,

sales to amber, jewelry, handicrafts, souvenirs, ice

cream, chiapanecos liqueurs and exotic flowers, all of

these in an environment of excellent folklore dance and

marimba music.

Infrastructure

• 625 m dock

• Official depth 32 pies (9.35 M) (NBMI)

• Depth 36 pies (11 m)

• Basin 450 m

• Maritime signals

• Capacity for 5th generation cruise ships, loa 300 meters

and 115,000 GRT.

• Capacity to receive more than 3,000 passengers.

The Gulf Route

It has been called “the route that has it all.” And it does.

It is gifted with a strategic geographical location that of-

fers unique tourism opportunities in hand with a devel-

oped service potential and port infrastructure. It consists

of the ports of: Veracruz, Dos Bocas, Tabasco and Pro-

greso, Yucatán.

Port of Veracruz

Localed in the Gulf of Mexico and surrounded by his-

tory, culture, mysticism, architecture, archeological

sites, gastronomic delights, and all kinds of music is the

port of Veracruz. Its modern infrastructure, security and

reliability make it a comfortable destination for tourists.

Nowadays, the port has 19 docking positions with a 12

to 14 meters draft and a turning basin of 500 meters di-

ameters depth. Among the piers is the so-called “Tourist

Berth.” Located south from the cargo areas, this berth

offers cruise lines the ideal docking position for its pas-

sengers due to its nearness to downtown Veracruz (5-

minute-walk).

Currently, the “T” berth is 100 meters long, which, com-

bined with “Dolphins,” reaches a length of 167 meters.

Arrangements in this berth are on their way to enlarge

to 170 meters long, which, combined with “Dolphins,”

will have a total length of 200 meters. There will also

be two accesses: one for services to the vessel and

another for passengers.

The Port of Dos Bocas

The Port of Bocas is located in the state of Tabasco

at the southeast of Mexico. It offers the passengers

the opportunity to explore Olmec and Mayan cultural

archeological sites, rivers, lakes and taste the thou-

sands of flavors that the gastronomy of the region has

to offer. The port offers tourist services, shore excur-

sions, and a pier of 984 feet long, a turning basin of

1246 feet wide, channel width of 328 feet and 32 ft

of draft.


With 22 Ships Visiting 282 Destinations, The Choice Is YoursRoyal Caribbean International® is committed to making our guests’ cruise vacation experience unique and memorable--a place where they can be free from the conventions of everyday life. A place where they can say, “Why Not?”and enjoy amazing onboard and onshore activities, rejuvenate with a relaxing spa treatment, savor fine dining, experience a Broadway show and so much more. All of this is what we call the Royal AdvantageSM--our commitment to providing the best, most innovative ships, features, destinations and personalized service to our guests.

Features vary by ship and itinerary. ©2011 Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. Ships registry: The Bahamas.

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VITALITY DAY SPA

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FLOWRIDER®

Visit www.RoyalCaribbean.com to learn more.

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PanamaPanama

Content provided by: Authority of Tourism Panama

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Panama has always been a place of transit; since the Isthmus emerged from theocean and created the natural bridge between North and South America, Panamahas been the central focus of trade all over the world.

Today, the country is consolidating itself as the hub of Latin America, not onlylogistically (having the largest free zone in the world), but also as the most important regional air hub, due mainly to the hub of the Americas established byPanama’s national airline—Copa Airlines in Tocumen International Airport inPanama City.

As of today, the hub of the Americas serves more than 50 destinations in over 27countries in the Americas.

Panama is now positioning itself as the new cruise hub of Latin America, havingtwo cruise ships departing Colon 2000 Terminal for the Caribbean: RoyalCaribbean’s Grandeur of the Seas and Pullmantur’s Ocean Dream.

It has emerged as one of the region’s new and exotic destinations, due mostly toits great infrastructure, connectivity and a great deal of government and privateprojects, some of which are highlighted below:

Panama Canal Expansion $5.5 Billion dollar projectPanama New Metro System $1.0 Billion dollar projectPanama Maritime Expansion $450 million project (including a new cruise

terminal in the Pacific)Panama Office Park $200 million projectBiodiversity Museum $70 Million project

The country’s strong economic growth makes Panama the first Central Americancountry that has been rated by the 3 economic investment debt rate institutions:

• Standard And Poor’s • Fitch Ratings• Moody’s

The year 2010 was one of Panama’s best years in tourism, with some great fig-ures in number of passengers and expenditures:

Over 10 % growth in number of tourists, compared to 200914% increase in tourists’ expenditures Over 10,000 new hotel rooms will be constructed in the next 2 years (A esti-mated investment of 3 billion dollars).Foreign direct investment in over 2.8 billion dollars Occupancy rate in the city was at a 70% average

Since the days of the conquerors, Panama was considered the most importantroute where goods passed to be shipped to Europe. The first transcontinentalroad was built here, which was named el “Camino de cruces.” Though this pathwas moved, a lot of the gold coming from North and South America was latershipped to Spain. Then the first transcontinental railroad was also built inPanama, and years later, our famous canal was developed.

Today, Panama continues to grow as a young, stable, secure and vibrant countrywaiting for you to come and experience why Panama has become the hub of theAmericas.


From the time of its inception, the program to expandthe Panama Canal further placed the Isthmus on thespotlight of international markets, attracting key engineering and construction companies interested inparticipating in this major undertaking. And as thePanama Canal Authority (ACP) observes its fourthyear into the execution of one the largest, most com-prehensive engineering projects around the world, thelandscape at the work sites continues to change dras-tically day in and day out.

Canal Expansion Overview for 2011

With 2011 already underway, the Expansion Programis currently preparing to tackle important phases ofits execution. The arrival of one of the world’s mostpowerful dredges (the D’Artagnan); the constructionof the first Canal dam built in the last 75 years; andthe first concrete-pouring activities for the construc-tion of the third set of locks are just some of the mile-stones that the project will achieve throughout thesetwelve months.

Dredging

In the arena of dredging work to improve Canal nav-igational channels, eye-catching equipment, such asthe D’Artagnan, which Belgian contractor DredgingInternational Panama, S.A. is incorporating to the

project, is already in local waters to completethe work.

Its work will center on dredging the remaining vol-ume under the project to widen and deepen the Pacificentrance to the Canal, a task that involves removingabout 3.3 million cubic meters of material.

A contract awarded on August 16, 2010 to Belgiandredging mogul Jan de Nul n.v., the last dredging con-tract to be awarded under the program, will removenearly 4 million cubic meters of material, digging outthe Pacific access channel north approach, which willlink the new locks on the Pacific to Culebra Cut.

On the Atlantic side, the project to widen and deepenthe Canal entrance has also achieved significantprogress. In 2010 alone, Jan De Nul n.v., also incharge of this contract, conducted an aggressive workplan that enabled it to complete the removal of all thematerial scheduled for 2011, with the help of a mag-nificent array of major dredging equipment never before seen in Panama.

Dredging activities in Gatun Lake and Culebra Cut,which are being conducted by ACP in-house forces,concluded an important phase of its land-based dredg-

ing task: the excavation of Juan Grande reach. Alldredging activities were also recently completed inParaiso reach in Culebra Cut, as well as in Tabernillaand San Pablo reaches in Gatun Lake. By midyear,the Canal’s Dredging Division expects to receive thenew, powerful cutter-suction dredge Quibian I, whichwill come to complement its resources for the execu-tion of the project.

On the other hand, 60% of the volume to be dredgedfrom the northern section of the lake (a total of 4.2million cubic meters of material) was also awardedto Belgian contractor Dredging InternationalPanama, S.A. and should be completed by Septemberof this year.

Additional work is also being conducted by the ACPin Gatun Lake, intended to increase the lake’s maxi-mum operating level to improve water supply andguarantee water supply for human consumption in theareas surrounding the waterway on the Atlantic andPacific sides and the operation of the expanded Canal.

Among other activities, the Gatun spillway recentlyreceived two new caissons (or floating spillway gates)with the new required dimensions. These floatinggates work as temporary replacements for the regular

Panama: Cruise Hub of Latin AmericaImportant Construction Activities

Tackled Under Canal Expansion Program


gates that are sent to the dry dock for repair, extensionor replacement. ACP personnel are also working inthe fabrication of two new spillway gates and in theextension and replacement of up to five additionalspillway gates as part of the activities under the proj-ect to keep the dam up to date with Expansion Pro-gram modifications.

Construction of Borinquen Dam 1E

During the third quarter of 2011, ICA-FCC-MECO,the contractor in charge of the fourth phase of theexcavation of the Pacific Access Channel (PAC-4)is expected to begin construction of the Borinquendam 1E, the first dam to be built in the Canal area in75 years.

From the end of last year, engineers from the US-based URS Holdings, Inc. arrived in Panama toserve as engineering consultants for the ACP teamfor the inspection, technical evaluation and revisionduring the construction of the dam. Before the be-ginning of this phase, the contractor had to completethe process of installing the 1.8 km-long cellular cof-ferdam system that will separate Miraflores Lakefrom the excavation.

The contractor is currently preparing to begin con-struction of the dam by compiling the material thatwill be used in the dam, which includes a clay coreand rock fill.

The geological characteristics of the expansion sitehave enabled finding the clay for the dam’s imperme-able core and the basalt for the rock to fill in the 26million cubic meters of material that will be removedduring the execution of the fourth dry-excavationphase of the creation of the Pacific Access Channeland from previously characterized borrow sites nearthe area of execution of the work.

Third Set of Locks

Locks Designs

The designs of the different components of the ThirdSet of Locks progress is on time, strictly followingthe performance specifications of the locks. The de-sign of the first sets of gates is also in its last leg, withconstruction scheduled to begin this year.

The designs of the walls are progressing, with the

final designs of the lockheads in the upper levelboth on the Pacific and Atlantic sides already com-plete. The designs of the electromechanical compo-nents, cofferdams and access channels, dams andthe geotechnical studies continue to develop accord-ing to schedule.

Civil Construction

The most demanding part of the project to build, thePost-Panamax locks, began this year both on the Pa-cific and Atlantic sides. In 2011, the project will beginto take shape, with the final phases of dry excavationnearing completion; however, the defined shapes ofthe areas where the lockheads will be poured, the tri-furcations and the areas to be occupied by the water-saving basins are already easily distinguishable.

The contractor is also working on the design of the

final concrete mix that will be prepared at the indus-trial parks at both ends of the Canal, and which, onceapproved, will give way to concrete pouring for thenation’s biggest and most significant civil Works ever.

On the Pacific side, the project will center its activi-ties on the upper chamber and lockheads, as well ason the construction of the cofferdams and the en-trance to the Pacific access channel. On the Atlanticside, the project will also proceed with concrete workfor lockheads Nos. 2 and 3 and the upper chamber.After this, the works will transfer north toward lock-head No. 4.

Parallel to the civil works conducted at the locks,work is being conducted for the relocation of utilities,such as electrical towers and fiber optics, on bothsides of the Isthmus.


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Puerto RicoPuerto Rico

Content provided by: Puerto Rico Tourism Company

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Few places on Earth can boast of having the combi-nation of natural beauty and urban attractions thatPuerto Rico has. While the entire island offers a richbounty of Nature’s beauties, San Juan offers attrac-tions as diverse as its five-hundred-year-old-city: mu-seums, galleries, shopping centers and excellentrestaurants. Puerto Rico is a quality destination, andits quality proposition is a comprehensive one, encompassing our people, our products, our services,

our ecosystem and our lifestyle. This year, PuertoRico has been recognized by a variety of travel mediaas a great destination. For example, Puerto Rico ob-tained the top spot in Fodor’s top 10 destinations inthe Caribbean; CNN Travel gave Puerto Rico thirdposition among the top 10 destinations to spendChristmas in the World; and the island municipalityof Vieques was given the eighth position by Conde

Nast Traveller among the top 10 islands in the At-

lantic. Moreover, Puerto Rico has a key geographicallocation that makes it the gateway to the Southern andEastern Caribbean. Air access is one of the greatestadvantages we have as a homeport. By being thegateway to the Southern and Eastern Caribbean,Puerto Rico makes it far easier for cruise lines toreach the other islands because of the shorter travelingdistances and subsequent savings in fuel. As a transitdestination, we also have distinct advantages, in that


Puerto Rico’s overall destination offering is the bestin the Caribbean, given our diversified land productand superior infrastructure. And our proximity toother islands makes Puerto Rico an easy stop.

Puerto Rico receives over 1.2 million cruise passen-gers on a yearly basis. Our cruise industry signifi-cantly contributes to our economy, generating closeto five thousand jobs and having an impact of morethan $240 million, yearly, on the island’s economy.San Juan is currently served by 14 cruise lines and is

home port to seven of them. While Puerto Rico’scruise ship business has matured over time, there isstill much room for growth. The island has seen a34% increase in home port passengers. The forecastfor 2011 is that total visitors will grow by 8%, the firstoverall industry increase in five years. We are themain homeport facility in the Caribbean, receivinghalf a million homeport passengers per year for a totalof 1.2 million passengers per year. Additionally, weare the best-prepared destination in the region for pro-visioning cruise ships.

Furthermore, we have found that the cruise ship visi-tors are a captive market for promoting land stays, as62% of cruisers who explore a vacation destinationreturn as stay-over guests. Homeport passengers havean average pre/post stay of almost two nights in SanJuan. And cruise ship passenger expenditures in SanJuan have an economic impact of over $180 millionper year. It is clear that it is of strategic importancefor Puerto Rico to grow this economic sector.

Puerto Rico’s strategy seeks to facilitate everyone’s

growth by reinforcing major initiatives that ultimatelybenefit the entire cruise sector. Among these are: im-proving air access for our homeport passengers, of-fering attractive incentives to cruise lines, improvingthe quality of our product, and increasing attractionsand tour offerings.

We have improved air access to the island, which hasresulted in additional frequencies and new routesfrom cruise feeder markets. For example, Air Tranand Jet Blue will commence flying from Tampa withtwo daily flights each. Also, Air Tran has added twodaily frequencies from Baltimore, and Jet Blue an-nounced new daily service from Jacksonville. Finally,British Airways has announced that they will beginservicing San Juan from Gatwick with two weeklyservices. Puerto Rico’s main international airport inSan Juan now counts with a year-round average of421 weekly flights to 21 US destinations, 27 weeklyflights to 6 International destinations and 643 weeklyflights to 24 destinations in the Caribbean. A well di-versified base of airlines serves these routes, includ-ing: Air Canada, Air Sunshine, Air Tran, American

Puerto Rico: Gateway to the Eastern Caribbean


Airlines, American Eagle, British Airways, Cape Air,Continental, Copa, Delta, Iberia, Insel, jetBlue, LIAT,Spirit Airlines, Sunwing, United, US Airways andVirgin Atlantic.

In order to financially attract cruise business to PuertoRico, we have developed what has become the stan-dard incentives model for the cruise ship industry inthe Caribbean. The incentives law establishes a fundto promote the island’s cruise ship industry, providingcruise lines with incentives for provisioning locally,for increasing the volume of passengers visiting theisland, a destination incentive, a frequent visit orhomeport incentive and a transit incentive, amongothers. These incentives are from a joint fund that op-erates with $5 million from the Puerto Rico TourismCompany and another $4 million from the centralgovernment’s General Fund.

The quality of our product is of particular impor-tance. We have begun a project to organize thetourism transportation logistics at the San Juan portarea in order to assure our visitors a better arrival ex-perience. This project will also include a signage ini-tiative that will direct visitors the correct waytowards the historical sites of Old San Juan. In prod-uct enhancement, we have broadened the availableexcursions for passengers, thanks to the introductionof new attractions, such as the Toro Verde ecologicaladventure, where visitors glide through a rainforestcanopy on a lengthy cable system, providing themwith a real bird’s-eye view of the treetops and theirecology. For children, we also have a new NaturalHistory Museum and the Punto Verde eco-park,where they can learn about nature and how we canbest preserve and protect our natural environment.These new attractions only add to the experience of

visiting El Yunque Rainforest, the only tropical rain-forest in the U.S. Forest Service system.

Puerto Rico has also embarked on a multi-year rede-velopment program for the San Juan Waterfront, whichwill provide a number of new attractions, hotels, parks,pedestrian and bicycle trails, and it will interconnectthe waterfront with the old city, the Convention CenterDistrict and the Condado area. This program will en-hance the historical Old San Juan, described by Conde

Nast as a “treasure in a teacup” and recognized byTravel and Leisure Magazine as one of the preferredtourism cities among travelers.

This year, Puerto Rico will be the host of the FCCACruise Conference and Trade Show from the 3rd to the7th of October. We will take this opportunity to showall participants how Puerto Rico Does It Better!


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Whether you’re having a blast shooting over the side of the ship on the first water coaster at sea or taking in the spectacular fireworks at our fun-filled deck parties—how do we make sure everyone in the family has a wonderful vacation aboard the new Disney DreamTM? Well, if we told you that it wouldn’t be magic, now would it? Disney Dream, now sailing. To learn more, go to disneycruise.com/dream or visit your Travel Agent.

n the Disney Dream, family time is in high gear.

©Disney/Pixar

Sint MaartenSint Maarten

Content provided by: St. Maarten Harbor Group

T


The Sint Maarten Harbour Group of Companies(SHGC) is in “good shape.” That is according to theChief Financier Royal Bank of Canada (formerlyRBTT). The Bank is satisfied with the security of theinvestments made related to the construction of thesecond cruise pier in November 2008 and the expan-sion of the cargo section of the Dr. A.C. WatheyCruise & Cargo Facilities.

According to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) ofSHGC Mark Mingo, the meeting with bank officials wasto give them an update with respect to port operations, es-pecially in light of the global financial and economic crisis.

The meeting focused on commercial development,status of financial picture, future outlook and strategicplanning. Harbour CEO Mingo got the opportunityto be introduced to Bank Group Risk Official Kay Kantharupan and Head Corporate Finance Don Talbot.

Financially, the harbor group is secure, with onlysmall losses suffered in the cargo section of the busi-ness. Mingo pointed out that the harbor group hasbeen prudent with its investments over the years, andthe return has been beneficial for the SHGC, the peo-ple of the island and the government.

Honorable Vice Prime Minister Theo Heyligersaid the harbor continues to be a vibrant companybecause the management team and board are keenon ensuring that viable and beneficial decisions tothe community and destination Sint Maarten are made.

Hon. Minister Heyliger was quoted as saying, “Wecontinue to be a force in the Caribbean, and in theyears to come, we will maintain and better our posi-tion, as long as our investments are what’s needed tokeep moving Sint Maarten up the ranks as a greatplace to live and visit.”


Port of sint Maarten Cruise Facilities andamenities

The Port of Sint Maarten Cruise Facilities is com-prised of the Dr. A.C. Wathey Pier, the John CraaneCruise Terminal, the Tender Jetty, Capt. HodgeWharf, Sea Palace Wharf and Harbour Point Village.These integrated facilities cater to the demands andneeds of the cruise sector, thereby creating the ultimate cruise experience for the cruiser.

The port caters to the world’s most recognizedcruise lines. Where itinerary planning is con-cerned, cruise lines always include the port whenthey debut their newest, largest and most spectac-ular cruise ships.

Service is the top priority. Customer service and firstclass facilities have been the driving force behind thesuccess of the Port of Sint Maarten.

The ultra-modern cruise facilities at the Port of SintMaarten puts the island in ninth place among the toptwenty world cruise ports and destinations, accordingto G.P. Wild International, a management, marketingand economic consultancy practice based in theUnited Kingdom.

The Port of Sint Maarten also ranks number nine ofleading ports and destinations in the Caribbean Region.

The island as a cruise destination has grown from105,000 cruise passengers in 1980 to attracting morethan one million cruise passengers annually since theturn of the century, 2000.

The Port of Sint Maarten offers simultaneous accommodations for six cruise vessels alongside the2,100 feet cruise pier South and the 1,341 feet cruisepier North. Our facilities include seaside and boule-vard promenades, along with the John Craane CruiseTerminal, which offers bus, taxi and water taxi oper-ations, car rentals, banking, tours, telecommunicationservices and much, much more. It’s a cruise facilitythat offers everything you would expect to find atsuch a world-renowned destination.

Water taxis leave the cruise facility and head straightinto the duty-free shopping Mecca of the northeasternCaribbean, Philipsburg. Cruise passengers can alsodisembark at the Capt. Hodge Wharf from water taxisand tender boat shuttles.

Harbor Point Village was opened in May 2003 andcomplements the shopping center of Philipsburg(Front Street). The village features a shopping arcadeconsisting of 12 shops and 12 market-stalls.s The Tender Jetty facilities cater to home porting,water taxis and water-based tours. The new tenderjetty has been described as the largest in the north-eastern Caribbean.

The Tender Jetty is four meters (14 ft) wide by 120meters (390 ft) long, featuring a nine-meter (25.2 ft)bridge section, four finger piers and a 24 meter (67.2ft) covered section. A depth of six meters has beendredged to allow vessels with a draft of five metersto safely approach the berthing facility.

The finger piers can accommodate up to six vesselssimultaneously.

Cargo Facilities

The Dr. A.C. Wathey Cruise & Cargo Facilities alsoincludes a cargo section, namely the Captain DavidCargo Quay and Cargo South Quay.

Sint Maarten proudly serves as a trans shipment hubfor the northeastern Caribbean, and this is due to theisland’s strategic location, ultra modern cargo facilitiesand the provision of efficient, reliable services tostakeholders and customers. This has made the cargoport one of the busiest trans shipment ports in this partof the Caribbean.

Some of the major cargo lines servicing the island areEurope West Indies Lines, Bernuth, CAGEMA,CMA-CGM, Seaboard Marine Lines and TropicalShipping.

The Capt. David Cargo Quay has a length of 270 meters (890 ft), a docking capacity for two generallift-on-lift-off (LOLO) and three roll-on-roll-off(RORO) cargo vessels. The water depth is 10.5 meters (35 ft).

The cargo quay has been extended by an additional260 meters.

The facility also includes a container storage area ofover 2000 TEUs. Cargo vessels can also be providedwith fuel and water services.

second Tender Jetty enhances accessibilityto Philipsburg shopping Center

The Port of Sint Maarten’s second tender jetty is play-ing an integral role for the 2010/2011 tourist seasonwhere the orderly distribution of cruise passengersand crew are concerned. The new jetty, named “Wal-ter Williams Jetty,” is located in front of Sea Palaceand is 75-feet long.

The Williams Jetty is one of three water taxi distribu-tion points (pick-up/drop-off) in Philipsburg along theGreat Bay Beach. It easily facilitates the cruise passen-gers and crew into what has been described as the duty-free shopping Mecca of the Caribbean, Philipsburg.

The jetty is seen as a significant development for the“Down Street” area. The other two jetties are Bobby’sMarina and Capt. Hodge Wharf.

Sint Maarten Harbour GroupIn Good Shape

Hon. Theo Heyliger, Vice

Prime Minister and Minster

responsible for Port Affairs

Mark Mingo, Chief Executive

Officer, Sint Maarten Harbour

Group of Companies


World’s Largest giga Yacht Calls at Port ofsint Maarten

The port has amenities that can service even the ritziestconsumers and vessels, as seen by its capability ofcatering to the meg-yacht market.

Referred to as the world’s biggest giga-yacht, the M/YEclipse, owned by Russian billionaire RomanAbramovich, berthed at the Dr. A.C. Wathey Cruise& Cargo facility recently. It was the vessel’s first visitto the Caribbean.

The M/Y Eclipse is 536 feet long and features two helipads, a luxury spa, disco, a large swimming pooland a submarine. The vessel can accommodate 62guests and 50-crew members, who share 6,000 squarefeet of living space onboard.

M/Y Eclipse was launched on June 12, 2009, and initial costs have been estimated at US$485 million.

The Port of Sint Maarten is an ideal location for mega

yachts, as it has the required amenities that a megayacht captain is looking for with respect to fueling,water, etc.

The proximity of the port to the island’s capital,Philipsburg, where duty-free stores, restaurants, casinosand beaches are located further enhances the vacationer’s experience.

Other amenities available at the cruise terminal facilityinclude seaside and boulevard promenades, alongwith the John Craane Cruise Terminal, which offersbus, taxi and water shuttle taxi operations, car rentals,banking, tours, telecommunication services andmuch, much more.

Besides the aforementioned, Harbor Point Village wasopened in May 2003 and complements the destina-tions main shopping center of Philipsburg (FrontStreet). The port village features a shopping arcadeconsisting of 12 shops and 12 market-stalls and is abeehive of activity.

The country’s cruise facility offers everything youwould expect to find at such a prominent destination.

Port of sint Maarten surpasses 1.5 MillionCruise Passengers

In 2010, over 1.5 million cruise passengers(1,512,618) visited the island. Five years before,the island as a cruise destination came close to thismilestone with 1.488 million. Vice Prime MinisterTheo Heyliger said this was a milestone reachedbased on a change in approach towards marketing

and cruise ship itinerary planning. Heyliger saidthat the agreements brokered with cruise partnersover the years ensured that cruise ships kept coming,and the economy continued to grow even in thetoughest of times.

recognizing our elders

Vice Prime Minister and Minster responsible for PortAffairs, Hon. Theo Heyliger, is a proponent of recog-nizing local persons who have contributed in one wayor the other to the development of the island.

Walter “Plantz” William (94) is one such local whohas had a special relationship with the sea as an avidfisherman.

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Port of SintMaarten said, “We have been and continue to honor pioneers in our community. The harbor is not onlyabout developments now and for the future. We are alsoabout respecting our past and the contributions made toour society. Without a balance, any ship would sink.”

U.S. Virgin IlandsU.S. Virgin Ilands

FCCA Cruise Destinations 53Ships’ Registry: Italy 6905

THE MOST FESTIVECRUISE IN THE CARIBBEAN

Arrivederci, humdrum!

FOR RESERVATIONS OR MORE INFORMATION, CALL 1-800-GO-COSTA (1-800-462-6782) OR VISIT COSTACLICK.COM.mediterranean u northern europe u caribbean u south america u dubai & the red sea u far east u indian ocean u transatlantic

Are your clients looking for something different in a Caribbean cruise? Something fun and out of the ordinary? Something with togas, perhaps? Then they should experience our Roman Bacchanal, voted the “most off-the-wall” event in cruising by Fielding’s Guide to Worldwide Cruises. Once they experience a Costa cruise, they will say “Arrivederci, routine cruises! Ciao, love, laughter and la dolce vita!”

VOTED ONE OF THE TOP TEN CRUISE LINES BY THE READERS OF “CONDÉ NAST TRAVELER”

Content provided by: U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism

T


The U.S. Virgin Islands has served as a favorite stopfor cruise lines and passengers for years by offering amix of exciting shore excursions, opportunities to ex-plore local cuisine, history and culture and a varietyof retail options for duty-free shopping.

With its enchanting towns, magnificent coastlines,historic sites and incomparable water adventures, aworld of unforgettable moments are waiting to be dis-covered in St. Croix, St. John and St. Thomas.

WHaT’s neW

The Department of Tourism’s ongoing commitmentto its visitors and cruise lines means it’s constantlyworking to enhance the cruise visitor experience;

2011 marks the beginning of a chain of new devel-opments and refurbishments at the Territory’s portsof call. From recent attraction and restaurant open-ings to long-term improvement projects, the U.S. Virgin Islands is evolving, and the Department ofTourism is excited to welcome cruise passengers toexperience it.

The start of the year saw the reopening of Moun-

tain Top on St. Thomas. In January 2011, follow-ing extensive reconstructive work, cruisepassengers were once again able to access the bestviews of the island from its highest point of eleva-tion. Travelers can relax on the viewing deck andindulge in a world famous banana daiquiri (a 60year old recipe!) once again.

The Butterfly Farm reopened on St. Thomas underthe management of Coral World Ocean Park. Theunique attraction immerses guests in the world ofthe delicate butterfly, allowing interaction and observation of some of the most beautiful speciesin the world. The farm is a family favorite and, as aresult of its new ownership, is offering joint promo-tions with Coral World Ocean Park and the St.Thomas Skyride tramway – both large draws forcruise passengers throughout the year. Coral WorldOcean Park gives guests a glimpse into underwatermarine wildlife and hands-on experience with a“touch” pool and sea-lion encounters. Meanwhile,St. Thomas Skyride tramway is the perfect way tosavor the island’s breathtaking harbor views from700 feet.


The Yacht Haven Grande mega-yacht marina,known as one of the premier marine facilities in theCaribbean, is operating at its optimum with over80,000 square feet of occupied retail space, excitingdining and entertainment options, recreational ameni-ties and seaside residences. From Bulgari to Burberry,cruise passengers with a taste for luxury can live outtheir shopping fantasies here.

Soon, St. Thomas will welcome Senor Frogs—a pop-ular international restaurant, entertainment and retailvenue—to open at Paradise Gate, St. Thomas. Therenowned establishment will serve up its signaturedishes, exciting nightlife and a variety of fun clothingand souvenirs.

ParadIse reneWed

The destination’s four gateways to paradise beckonto cruise lines and passengers with their breathtakingscenery, unforgettable activities and warm Caribbeanculture. Revitalization projects currently underway atthese ports mean cruise passengers have an opportu-nity to experience the destination in a way they neverhave before.

Charlotte Amalie Revitalization Project

St. Thomas combines the natural beauty of the islands

with an energetic atmosphere. Both the Crown Bayand West Indian Company ports offer seamless accessto the downtown Charlotte Amalie area, one of themost beautiful harbors in the world. A revitalizationproject currently underway will result in an aestheticlift and overall improved visitor experience in thedowntown area. The pedestrian-friendly décor andnatural aesthetics of Market Square is being upgradedwith the addition of trees and the renovation of nearbybuildings and roads. Main Street is receiving similarattention, as the entire downtown area is receivingparking improvements to better serve locals and vis-itors alike, helping to eliminate congestion and ensur-ing the area is navigable. Other high-traffic areasbeing addressed include the Marine Route, Long BayRoad and Frenchman Bay Road. Finally, cruise passenger must-sees, including Vendors Plaza, the Waterfront and Fort Christian, are undergoing exten-sive restorative work to offer an even more pleasingexperience at the St. Thomas port.

Aside from the exciting refurbishments and devel-opments being seen on island, St. Thomas will al-ways have constant draws for visitors. Its beautifulbeaches are the perfect spot for relaxation, or tojump into the turquoise waters with active excur-sions like snorkeling, scuba diving, SNUBA, para-sailing, windsurfing or kayaking. If perusing shopsinstead of ocean waters is more your style, St.

Thomas is the ideal stop. Hailed as the “shopping

Mecca” of the Caribbean, Charlotte Amalie offersworld-class duty-free shopping. Its treasure trove ofretailers selling arts and crafts, precious gems, finewatches, crystals, perfumes and more ensures thatevery guest leaves port with a special souvenir. TheUSVI has a $1,600 duty-free shopping allowance,the highest in the Caribbean.

New World Cuisine Meets Local Flavors in St. John

While St. Thomas boasts two impressive ports, it alsoserves as the entryway to the lush island of St. John.Island hopping to this charming island is simple witha 15-minute ferry ride from St. Thomas, making it theperfect day-trip. The smallest of the islands, with two-thirds a designated national park, St. John offersguests tranquil, unspoiled beauty. Guests can explorethe island’s eco-tourist appeal via one of the many nature-based activities. From a guided snorkel tour ofTrunk Bay to bird watching on a hike through one ofits 22 trails, the island is home to variety of land andsea activities to suit any travelers’ preference.

The island’s eco-offerings are unmatched, yet it isalso home to two enchanting towns: Cruz Bay andCoral Bay. Dotted with cozy boutiques, restaurantsand winding streets, these two towns provide the per-fect setting for visitors to explore and discover localartwork, handmade jewelry and unique souvenirs.

Renewed And Revitalized: Many Great Ports, One Amazing Destination


One of the new restaurants to open in Cruz Bay thisyear is popular New York City Malaysian-inspiredrestaurant Fatty Crab. The Fatty Crab crew willbring its signature funky flavors and rock ‘n roll atmosphere that the two Fatty Crabs in New York Cityhave come to be known for. The menu will be similarto its other locations, but will incorporate producefound locally, giving the culinary team a chance toplay around with new ingredients, like the Virgin Islands’ conch, spiny lobster and fruits and vegetablesindigenous to the island. This addition is sure to delight visitors and locals alike with its unique takeon dining in the gorgeous Cruz Bay location.

The “Spirits” of St. Croix

St. Croix remains an under-the-radar Caribbean gemrich with cultural experiences. The refurbished Ann

E. Abramson Marine Facility at the Frederikstedpier area gives cruise passengers a new place to explore and, similar to its sister island, this port is seeing new developments that are sure to become essential stops on any St. Croix itinerary.

Already known as the home of Cruzan Rum, Diageo

USVI, the Virgin Islands’ newest distillery, will beopening a Captain Morgan Visitor Center on St.Croix in anticipation of the Captain Morgan distilleryset to produce its first batch of rum in 2012. The visitorcenter allows guests to experience the rum’s uniquehistory, production process and a little more about theCaptain himself. It will also house “The Captain’s Col-lection,” a stunning gathering of old and newCaribbean rums. In addition to showcasing the historyand culture of rum production, the visitor center edu-cates travelers on LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification and Diageo’scommitment to sustainability and responsible drinking.

Once cruise passengers disembark in Frederiksted,they can stroll along its waterfront and enjoy the shop-ping and breathtaking beaches – a perfect escape forthose seeking tranquillity and relaxation. Historybuffs will enjoy a visit to nearby Estate Whim Plan-

tation, a restored 18th-century sugar mill situatedamong 12 acres of majestic plantation buildings andtropical flora.

Foodies can indulge in authentic West Indian dishes

laden with spices or international cuisine infused withlocal flavors in one of the town’s many restaurants.

Meanwhile, Gallows Bay Dock, located only a milefrom the charming town of Christiansted, enablesguests to explore the area by foot. In Christiansted,visitors enjoy taking pictures in the historicalchurches, meandering through pastel buildings andunique art galleries and perusing the charming bou-tiques, cafés and pavilions.

Best known for the array of water activities availableto guests, St. Croix’s crystal waters provide the per-fect backdrop for everything from a leisurely swim toa thrilling kayak excursion. St. Croix is also heraldedas one of the world’s top diving destinations, offer-ing enthusiasts dives that will inspire even the mostseasoned experts. The island is also home to Buck

Island National Reef Monument, an underwater won-der that stretches across 19,000 acres of protected landand pristine waters, beckoning visitors to explore.

To learn more about the U.S. Virgin Islands, pleasevisit www.visitusvi.com or call (800) 372-USVI.

To learn more about the USVI email [email protected].

Captivate your clients with cruises that include the breathtaking U.S. Virgin Islands.

You Unscripted

©2011 United States Virgin Islands Department of Tourism.

800.372.USVI

Lost: The Beaten Path

Found: A Place Like No Other

1 2 1:44 PM

When you combine thousands of great choices with a carefree atmosphere, memorable things are bound to happen.

That’s what we call Freestyle Cruising®. So no matter what you choose to do, we’re confident it’ll be something

to write home about. Maybe you’ll get a relaxing hot stone massage. Maybe you’ll try horseback riding for the fi rst time.

Or maybe you’ll throw some strikes at the only bowling lanes at sea. When you can fi ll your entire travel journal

in just seven days, that’s Freestyle Cruising. Visit ncl.com, call your travel agent or

1.888.NCL.CRUISE. Fr� st� Cruising

No ma� er what you do,it ’s not going to fi t on one postcard.

©2011 NORWEGIAN CRUISE LINE CORPORATION LTD. SHIPS’ REGISTRY: BAHAMAS AND UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. 15784 2/11

Featured Cruise Destinations by the FCCA

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