St Kitts welcomes the world's largest passenger ship

The world's largest passenger cruise ship made its inaugural call to St Kitts yesterday, the first of seven before 15 August.

The arrival of Harmony of the Seas was described as "an impressive feat" by Minister of Tourism Lindsay Grant, who welcomed the vessel's passengers and crew when it docked.

“This is really special for us. Special because it is the largest ship in the world, and I want to say to you it is testimony to our vision and foresight that although this facility [Port Zante] has been built some 25 years plus, it still 25 years later can take the largest ship in the world," he said.

"And so, for those who came before me for the vision and foresight, I say kudos to them,”

Minister Grant said that it is important to him that both the crew and guests get to experience of the islands' hospitality, friendliness and efficiency.

Kenneth Møller, staff captain of the Harmony of the Seas, used the occasion to applaud his crew.

Harmony of the Seas is the newest addition to Royal Caribbean's award-winning Oasis Class fleet, was launched on 19 June 2015. She was declared the largest passenger ship in the world, surpassing her older sisters Oasis of the Seas and Allure of the Seas.

The vessel holds a capacity of almost 10,000.