Ferry boat operators recently received a mandate from Ministry of Tourism to help convert cruise passengers to long-term visitors.
The mandate came from Tourism’s Permanent Secretary, Colin Higgs, during the first Ferry Boat Operators Appreciation Week. Mr. Higgs, speaking to ferry boat workers and passengers, said one of the Ministry of Tourism’s key objectives is to get cruise visitors to return to The Bahamas for land-based visits.
“You are at the forefront of the tourism business, and you have a big role to play because you are at the gateway of the cruise port,” he said.
Mr. Higgs pointed out that many ferry boat operators have improved their vessels and their service. Boat captains have also participated in Ministry of Tourism training programmes such as the Sales Marketing and Royal Treatment (SMART) programme.
Senator Trevor Whylly assured ferry captains that the government supports their efforts to improve their services. At the same time, he said, government will be improving the infrastructural plant throughout The Bahamas.
Mr. Whylly also reminded ferry boat captains that they are able to access government guaranteed loans to assist in the repair and upgrading of their vessels.
The Nassau Guardian
