Visiting cruise passenger have expressed that the experience in the BVI was a positive one. This was the sentiment from those first to visit the Territory since the passage of Hurricane Irma.

Minister for Communications and Works, Honourable Mark Vanterpool said that after speaking with passengers that they are all happy to be in the Territory.

Captain of Marella Discovery, Hugh Maynard shared the same sentiments and said, “[The guests are] all understanding and they want to go and start contributing to the economy…help financially with whatever money they can spend at small bars and restaurants and so forth.”

Several Government agencies have prepared designated areas for tourists to visit as well as ensuring that these areas are safe. Passengers returning from their day visit said they enjoyed meeting locals and patronising the businesses that were open.

A cruise passenger from the United Kingdom expressed her heartfelt sentiments for the people of the Virgin Islands but noted that she is amazed that the people are in good spirits.

“First time here and people have been really nice even though they have been through all this destruction, they’re all smiling, we’ve been in the local bars and they have been very friendly and nice to us,” she said.

Another said, “It is very positive that you are rebuilding and there are a lot of works that have gone on already so that is a positive thing but we do feel for you.”

Visit the Government’s Facebook page at username @BVIGovernment for comments by Government officials and the Captain.