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CARIBBEAN NATIONAL WEEKLY: Antigua and Barbuda could soon be part of an innovative, fossil fuel-free ferry network, as a Guadeloupe-led initiative assesses the feasibility of launching an environmentally friendly inter-island transport system.
The initiative, aimed at establishing a sustainable ferry service, is part of the INTERREG Caribbean KARULINK project, which is funded by the European Union and executed by the Guadeloupe-based private transport company STEPS.
A delegation from Guadeloupe recently visited Antigua as part of the ongoing feasibility study, which began in January 2025 and is set to conclude in December 2027.
The study focuses on the possibility of connecting Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, St. Kitts & Nevis, and Guadeloupe through a clean-energy ferry system.
The Antigua and Barbuda Chamber of Commerce is an investor in the project.
The feasibility study involves collaboration with key local stakeholders, including the Antigua and Barbuda Port Authority, the Department of Marine Services (ADOMS), the Ministry of Tourism, and other relevant border security and law enforcement agencies.
Discussions have centered on determining the viability of the ferry system and identifying potential ports and harbors for the pilot phase.
Darwin Telemaque, CEO of the Antigua and Barbuda Port Authority, expressed his excitement over the potential partnership with STEPS, particularly in supporting a full-scale decarbonization of port facilities.
The goal is to transition all of Antigua and Barbuda’s ports to operate on renewable and non-fossil fuel energy sources. “The government is preparing the space to facilitate this environmental transition,” Telemaque stated.
The Green Ferry Project aligns with regional goals set by CARICOM and the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), fostering economic integration and sustainable development. H.E. Clarence E. Pilgrim, Permanent Secretary within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, emphasized the importance of improving economic ties within the Caribbean region.
“This project contributes to a more interconnected, economically vibrant region,” he said, highlighting the emphasis on sustainable transport to reduce environmental impact while boosting economic growth.
Pilgrim also noted the potential for improved transportation networks, which are essential for facilitating the free movement of goods, services, and people across the Caribbean.
“Small island developing states (SIDS) face unique challenges, and strengthening transport links is critical in responding to global economic shifts,” he added.
Martin Cave, Executive Director of the Antigua and Barbuda Chamber of Commerce, voiced strong support for the project, citing its potential to enhance trade and transportation while complying with International Maritime Organization (IMO) regulations.
“This project offers an opportunity for expertise and knowledge transfer,” Cave said.
“It could improve how we service buses and other transport systems, as the training component is a vital part of the study.”
The initiative also requires close coordination between all stakeholders to ensure its success. Christelle Flory, consultant for Axellens, emphasized the importance of working collaboratively to establish the new maritime route.
“We’ve been transporting over three million passengers, so this group has a wealth of expertise,” Flory remarked.
As part of the broader KARULINK project, the ferry network will leverage smaller ports across Guadeloupe to facilitate seamless, sustainable inter-island travel.
The long-term vision is to develop a comprehensive strategy for opening new maritime routes that are both environmentally friendly and economically viable.
Upon completion of the project, if deemed viable and profitable, the responsibility for continuing the ferry service will fall to the individual governments of the participating countries.
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. The next stop for the delegation is Dominica, followed by St. Kitts in the coming weeks.
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