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Antigua and Barbuda could soon be part of a groundbreaking fossil fuel-free ferry network as a Guadeloupe-led initiative assesses the feasibility of launching an environmentally friendly inter-island transport system.
A delegation from Guadeloupe recently visited Antigua as part of the INTERREG Caribbean KARULINK project, a European Union-funded initiative executed by Guadeloupe-based private transport company STEPS.
The project aims to establish a sustainable ferry service connecting Antigua, St. Kitts, Dominica, with Guadeloupe. The study is expected to last between January 2025 and December 2027 and has the Antigua and Barbuda Chamber of Commerce as one of its investors.
The exploratory study has engaged key local stakeholders, including the Antigua and Barbuda Port Authority, the Department of Marine Services (ADOMS), the Ministry of Tourism, and other border security and law enforcement agencies.
Their discussions focused on the viability of the clean-energy ferry project and identifying suitable harbours and ports for the pilot phase.
The initiative was welcomed by Port CEO Darwin Telemaque who is excited at future possibilities to partner with STEPS on clean energy changes at the port, particularly a full-scaledecarbonization of port facilities.
The goal is to have all of Antigua and Barbuda’s ports powered by non-fossil fuel and renewable-energy sources. “You are coming into a space where the environment is prepared by the government to facilitate the transition.”
The project also aligns with regional economic integration goals set by CARICOM and the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS).
Permanent Secretary within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, H. E. Clarence E. Pilgrim said the project aligns with the country’s vision of a more interconnected and economically vibrant region.
“We should use this opportunity to see how we can improve our economic standing. The emphasis today is on sustainable transport, and this aligns with our commitment to reduce environmental impact while fostering economic growth.”
Ambassador Pilgrim explained that “If we are to utilise and fully realize the full potential of the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME), we must ensure that our transportation networks support the free movement of goods, services and people.
Furthermore, as small island developing states (SIDS) face unique vulnerabilities that necessitate innovative and collaborative solutions. Strengthening our transport links will enable us to better respond to global economic shifts, like what’s taking place now in the United States.”
Executive Director of the Chamber of Commerce, Martin Cave has expressed strong support for the project, citing its potential to boost transportation and trade while aligning with International Maritime Organization (IMO) obligations.
“There will be expertise transfer or knowledge transfer as a result of this,” he said, noting that the experience from STEPS will be integrated into the project. “So perhaps we’ll be able to upgrade how we service buses etc. because the training component is one of the mission critical parts of this study and this project.”
The Axellens Firm consultant Christelle Flory stated that STEPS will need to work closely with all stakeholders to successfully establish the new maritime route.
Antigua is the first stop on the mission, with the delegation set to visit Dominica next, followed by St Kitts the following week. “We’ve been transporting over three million passengers, so this is really a group with expertise,” she said.
The broader vision of the KARULINK project is to develop a comprehensive strategy for opening new maritime routes using environmentally friendly solutions.
The ferry network will leverage smaller ports across Guadeloupe to facilitate seamless and sustainable inter-island travel.
At the end of the project, once it is seen to be viable and profitable, it will be left to individual national governments to identify ways to continue the ferry service.
The French delegation included Gilles Lima Chairman Founder of the STEP Group, Christelle Flory Axellens Consultant to the INTERREG Caribbean KARULINK Project, Anais Pierre-Justin STEP Project Officer, and Christelle Trefle-Hoton STEP Business Development Director.
For further information or inquiries, please contact:
Antigua and Barbuda Chamber of Commerce
Phone: 1-268-462-0743
Email: [email protected] or [email protected]
Website: antiguabarbudachamber.com
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Will Telemaque be around when this happens, just curious, hope he is though
This will be a fantastic project. It would be even better if the ferries were large enough so that we can take along our vehicles. It would really be enticing to take a long weekend in Guadeloupe and get around in my own vehicle rather than renting.
I don’t think I would easily miss another Dominica carnival or Creole Fest if this really becomes reality.
This will be a fantastic project. It would be even better if the ferries were large enough so that we can take along our vehicles. It would really be enticing to take a long weekend in Guadeloupe and get around in my own vehicle rather than renting.
Present please for Dominica carnival or Creole Fest if this really becomes reality.
@JBF: Easier said than done. You know they drive on the right over there and don’t speak English?! That might be a real challenge for the average Antiguan to deal with!