By
Rebecca Gibson |
Global Ports Holding (GPH) has started negotiations with the Government of Antigua and Barbuda to win a long-term concession to manage all cruise port operations in Antigua.
The parties have signed a memorandum of understanding and will now iron out the terms of the concession agreement, which covers all operations at the island’s main cruise port in capital St John’s, as well as the cruise ships that anchor near Falmouth Harbour.
As part of its bid to win the concession, GPH has pledged to build a new cruise pier that will enable St John's cruise port to accommodate Royal Caribbean International’s Oasis class vessels. It has also proposed plans to upgrade existing retail outlets and construct new retail and food and beverage facilities.
“GPH is committed to not only improving the overall cruise passenger experience in Antigua and Barbuda, but we are also committed to driving significant economic benefits for the local residents through improving the facilities in and around the port and driving increased passenger spend in the destination,” said GPH in a press release. “In addition, as part of the proposal GPH will establish a charitable foundation to support essential social programmes in Antigua and Barbuda.”
GPH and the government hope to finalise the concession agreement in the first half of 2019.