The expansion of the Antigua Cruise Port is set to begin in March, marking a major $40 million investment aimed at transforming the aesthetics and attractions of St. John’s City.
Officials, including Governor General Sir Rodney Williams, Prime Minister Gaston Browne, Tourism Minister Charles Fernandez, Global Ports Holding’s CEO and Chairman Mehmet Kutman, and Antigua Cruise Ports’ General Manager Gasper George, broke ground on Monday to signal the impending start of the Upland Development Project.
The project will introduce a range of new attractions, including a waterfront day club featuring pools, a swim-up bar, food and beverage outlets, and up to 100 retail spaces for local entrepreneurs.
A major highlight of the development is the construction of a 6,000-square-foot homeporting terminal, which will facilitate turnaround operations for cruise passengers. Other features include bazaars, souvenir shops, ice cream parlors, and other retail spaces aimed at enhancing the visitor experience.
Construction, which will span over 150,000 square feet, is set to commence with the first piling on March 17.
The terminal facility is expected to be completed by October 2025, in time for the start of the homeporting season, while the full buildout of the project is slated for completion by June 2026.
The development is expected to create employment opportunities for more than 200 construction workers and other support staff.
Prime Minister Gaston Browne has reaffirmed his support for the project, noting that despite initial challenges, the partnership with Global Ports Holding has proven beneficial to Antigua and Barbuda.
He emphasized the importance of ensuring that locals have access to the new amenities and economic opportunities created by the expansion.
“The land-based facility here is certainly very beautiful from what I’ve seen, and we expect opportunities will be created for our locals to own and operate shops,” Browne said. “I also hope there will be day-pass facilities so locals can come and enjoy the amenities.”
The project had previously faced delays due to land ownership and clearing issues, but officials confirm these hurdles have now been resolved.
The development is expected to enhance the image of Antigua as a premier cruise destination, positioning it as one of the most attractive ports in the Caribbean.
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I Hope this doesn’t take years to complete. lol
I hope they manage construction well to avoid too much disruption.
Waw $40M is a huge investment.
Gassy really a werk!