Turks & Caicos Off The Itineraries… For Now

In the wake of Hurricane Ike, which crossed over Grand Turk as a Category 4 hurricane, Grand Turk is being moved off the cruise line itineraries, at least for the near term. While the pier itself sustained little damage, having been built to withstand a Category 5 hurricane, as was the cruise center itself, most of the residents and other businesses on the island have suffered significant damage, and are in no position to be accepting cruise passengers at this time.

Carnival Corp lines (Carnival, Princess, Holland America, etc.) make up the bulk of the passengers to Grand Turk, and they are investigating other options. However, they have made a commitment to return as quickly as possible, as they understand the importance of tourism to the economy, and thus to the recovery of this island. Many residents are employed, directly or indirectly, in the cruise industry, so a return to work to them is doubly important.

In addition, passengers will miss this highly-rated port. However, I think most will understand that the decision to remove this port from sailings in the next few weeks is done for their benefit, but also for that of the residents who need to repair their homes and island before they can welcome visitors.

Hopefully this wonderful port will return soon to full capacity!