🚢 Cruise pier debate reopens in Cayman Islands

Michelle Clark, a founding member of the Cruise Port Referendum movement, has reignited the debate regarding the establishment of cruise piers in the Cayman Islands. Clark, who advocates for Caymanian-owned businesses, believes that while there are potential benefits to cruise berthing, there are also significant negatives that need to be considered. She argues that the government needs to establish what is acceptable for the islands as they continue to develop and decide their role in the tourism market. 🏝️

Clark expresses concern about the influence of cruise lines on the decision-making process, citing their self-serving nature and lack of concern for staff and passengers. She also questions the economic impact on local tour operators, who often have to sell their excursions at a significantly lower price to cruise lines, which then upsell them to passengers at a high profit margin. Clark argues for a more balanced approach, with fewer tourists paying premium prices directly to tour operators for a more curated and enjoyable experience. 🛳️

Finally, Clark calls for a referendum on the issue, urging the government to answer questions about infrastructure and the influence of cruise lines. She also questions the long-term benefits for Caymanians, asking whether the deals brokered by the government have improved access to beaches, education, jobs, and home and business ownership. Clark concludes by asking whether the cruise lines are offering the best deal for not only the tourism industry, but the wider Cayman Islands as a whole. 🗳️