Prime Minister Gaston Browne has expressed satisfaction with the completion of the new cruise terminal, describing it as a critical component in positioning Antigua and Barbuda as a marquee cruise tourism destination in the Caribbean.

Speaking at the terminal opening, Browne said the facility represents a significant milestone in the expansion of the nation’s cruise tourism infrastructure.

“I’m very happy about the completion of this terminal. This is part of the expansion of our cruise tourism infrastructure, one in which we are seeking to develop a marquee cruise tourism product within the Caribbean region,” Browne said.

The Prime Minister noted that with the build-out of shops, kiosks, and other amenities, the facility will become one of the best in the region, creating numerous opportunities for residents.

“It will result in more opportunities for the locals, those who are involved in commerce, those involved in the creative arts, who will perform here from time to time. And at the same time, more opportunities for employment,” he said.

Browne highlighted that several Antiguans and Barbudans have already been employed to operate the terminal, with additional employment expected as shops and other amenities become operational.

The development is a partnership between Global Ports Holding (GPH) and the government of Antigua and Barbuda, with GPH providing capital and expertise, and the government providing supporting concessions and the development site.

“I think it’s a good model, not only for Antigua and Barbuda, but for the rest of the Caribbean,” Browne said.

Looking ahead, the Prime Minister outlined ambitious plans to position Barbuda as a luxury cruise destination, targeting affluent travelers rather than mass market tourism.

“We’re not looking for any mass cruise tourists in Barbuda. What we’re seeking to do is attract high-end cruise tourists, those who go on small yachts and small cruise boats. Typically, you pay about US$25,000 per head for a cabin,” Browne explained.

He said GPH has been invited to establish a facility on Barbuda to accommodate these high-end tourists.

Additionally, the government is developing the Barnacle Point area into a premium cruise destination, where luxury travelers can enjoy water sports and fine dining.

“We’re also seeking to develop the Barnacle Point area as well, as a high-end cruise destination facility, one in which those high-end tourists will be able to enjoy the water sports there and enjoy fine dining at a hut and other high-end restaurants to be established there within the Barnacle Point area,” the Prime Minister said.

Browne indicated that within three to five years, both Barbuda and Barnacle Point should be fully developed, complementing existing facilities at English Harbour and St. John’s Harbour. He also mentioned potential development at Fort James.

The Prime Minister also addressed concerns about the country’s cleanliness, calling on citizens to maintain a pristine environment as tourism infrastructure expands.

“Our people must learn to keep the environment clean. There’s too much indiscriminate dumping of garbage, too many derelict homes,” Browne said, noting that authorities are actively addressing these issues by demolishing derelict structures and beautifying public spaces.

He emphasized that while the government is investing heavily in its people through improved education and healthcare facilities, citizens must reciprocate by providing excellent service and maintaining a clean environment.

“We want Antigua and Barbuda to be a pristine country with a beautiful environment, one in which our people earn good incomes, one in which our people are able to take care of their mortgage expenses, take care of the obligations of their children,” Browne said.

The Prime Minister stressed that the country’s tourism vision includes ensuring that residents have access to high-quality education and healthcare, while enhancing the visitor experience through superior service delivery.