Over 5000 passengers entered St Kitts on Icon of the Seas

World's largest cruise ship Icon of the Seas recently docked at the ports of St Kitts and Nevis. It made its first stop to the Federation its maiden voyage to the Caribbean. The cruise brought over 5000 passengers to the island's shores.

With the arrival of the massive cruise-ship, St Kitts and Nevis received its proudest, most significant moments. The US$1.8 billion vessel, which departed Miami, Florida last Saturday, will make other stops to include Charlotte Amalie, St Thomas, and Coco Cay in the Bahamas.

The Icon of the Seas is a massive modern-day ship, tantamount to the size of four city blocks. It is divided into eight neighbourhoods across 20 decks and includes six waterslides, seven swimming pools, an ice skating rink, a theatre and more than 40 restaurants, bars and lounges. The ship can carry up to 7,600 passengers at maximum capacity, along with 2,350 crew members.

[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e8Sn705J0YY[/embed]

Interestingly, St Kitts and Nevis' very own Captain Ludel Harvey joined the chief mate as they were charged with the responsibility of berthing this mammoth vessel into the nation's pier yesterday.

Leaders welcome the Icon of the Seas

As the Icon of the Seas docked at Port Zante, Prime Minister Terrance Drew and other cabinet leaders joined for a plaque exchange ceremony aboard the huge vessel.

PM Drew addressed the gathering at the Icon of The Seas Inaugural Cruise Call Plaque Exchange Ceremony with a message of joy and national pride.

[caption id="attachment_67344" align="aligncenter" width="529"] PM Terrance Drew and other Cabinet members onboard the cruise[/caption]

He said that the country celebrates this magnificent achievement, the inaugural cruise call of the iconic Icon of the Seas.

According to the PM, the Federation has journeyed a long way, but it continues to soar and stay prominent across the borders. He added, "It is with great pleasure that I emphasize the resounding success St. Kitts and Nevis have achieved as a sort after cruise destination."

[caption id="attachment_67349" align="aligncenter" width="508"] PM Drew with the captain of the ship[/caption] Also, Tourism Minister Marsha Henderson addressed the attendees during the ceremony. During her address, she extended her heartfelt appreciation to the Royal Caribbean group for their commitment and dedication to St Kitts. She outlined,"Your trust in our tourism potential and unyielding support have been vital in bringing us to this remarkable moment. We're grateful for your belief and tremendous contributions to our destination."

Minister Henderson expressed that the arrival of Icon of the Seas not only bolsters the tourism industry but also breeds new life into the economy.

While emphasizing on the benefits of the cruise's arrival, she said, "The benefits of today's event extend far beyond the ceremonial track exchange. In fact we anticipate a significant boost in revenue as this vessel becomes a catalyst for economic growth."

The Minister noted that the local businesses, from vendors offering unique souvenirs to tour operators showcasing the stunning natural wonders, will thrive in the wake of this opportunity.

"The ripple effects will be felt throughout our communities, generating employment and stimulating prosperity," stated Tourism Minister.

In addition to this, the leaders were delighted and took to Facebook to express their happiness over this huge milestone.

The Deputy Prime Minister of the Federation, Geoffrey Hanley, remarked, "Marveling in the Moment. As I watch history unfold, I remain humbled yet proud. St Kitts and Nevis makes history!!" Minister of Foreign Affairs Denzil Douglas said, "Truly, it A Historic Day for St. Kitts and Nevis; not only the World's largest cruise ship, Icon of the Seas is, docked in Basseterre, but there are two other Cruise Ships, AIDAluna and Club Med 2 are at our Port."

He added that as the government works to increase economic activities in the country, it sincerely hopes that the people and stakeholders in the various industries will greatly benefit.

While expressing pride, Minister Douglas added, "Let's say it again, because we're proud, elated, excited, blessed and honoured - The world's Largest Cruise Ship Icon of the Seas Came to the SMALLEST INDEPENDENT ISLAND FIRST."

Minister of Agriculture Samal Duggins wrote, "Today marked history for St. Kitts and Nevis as we hosted Icon of the Seas, the world's largest cruise ship! It was a significant milestone for our thriving tourism industry!"

He also highlighted that not only did Icon of the Seas make its prestigious first stop here in the beautiful twin island federation, but it was navigated to the picturesque shores by the island's very own Pilot, Luddell Harvey, from Minister Duggins' constituency number four, Middle Island.

Carnival-like atmosphere at Port Zante

Notably, it was a carnival-like atmosphere at Port Zante, Basseterre, as the world's largest cruise ship, the Icon of the Seas, docked in St Kitts while on its maiden voyage. A cultural show was held to display St Kitts and Nevis' vibrant heritage to the visitors. [caption id="attachment_67347" align="aligncenter" width="504"] Magnificent cruise docked at Port Zante (PC - Facebook)[/caption]

Several local performers of St Kitts amazed the cruise passengers with their performances, while several individuals wore outfits they usually carry during the carnivals.

[caption id="attachment_67348" align="aligncenter" width="469"] Performers at Port Zante (PC - Facebook)[/caption]

The Icon of the Seas stretches a whopping 1,197 feet in length and includes 20 decks. The cruise represents the very best of every vacation with the largest water park at sea, unrivalled ways to chill, and more ways to dine and drink. Icon truly is the world's best family vacation.