Cruise ships back in St Kitts as nation avoids heavy hurricane damage

Normal tourism operations have resumed in St Kitts and Nevis following the passage of Hurricane Maria, with two cruise ships set to arrive later today.

Despite a battering around coastal areas, the federation was fortunate to escape major damage when the powerful storm has moved passed on Tuesday afternoon.

Caribbean neighbour Dominica was hit by the full force of the category five hurricane, leaving carnage across the island.

In St Kitts, Port Zante cruise pier did not sustain damage, and Robert L Bradshaw International Airport reopened a day later on 20 September.

Carnival Fascination and Royal Caribbean's Adventure of the Seas are the two cruise ships that will dock later today.

All hotels in St Kitts and Nevis are fully operational, and properties that do not have seasonal closures are open to guests.

'We continue to extend our thoughts and prayers to our Caribbean brothers and sisters in those islands which took a direct hit from Maria and to everyone who has been or will be impacted by the storm,” the Caribbean Tourism Organisation said.

“Our sincere thanks to those who have kept St Kitts and Nevis in their hearts and prayers.”

Maria was the second major hurricane to hit the region this month, following roughly the same path as Irma.

Carnival Fascination Delivers Relief Supplies to St. Maarten Residents Impacted by Hurricane Irma: https://t.co/scI22fKq4C

— Carnival Cruise PR (@CarnivalPR) September 18, 2017