Saint Lucia Cruise Port, a subsidiary of Global Ports Holding (GPH), has strategically partnered with the Government of Saint Lucia and the Saint Lucia Air and Sea Ports Authority (SLASPA) to drive significant developments in the region.
This project signifies a decisive long-term investment in the people of Saint Lucia, focused on developing critical infrastructure and propelling the island’s cruise tourism sector forward.
Key Project Highlights:
– Long-term Investment: A robust 30-year concession agreement is in place, backed by a minimum investment of EC$163 million dedicated to upgrading Saint Lucia’s cruise tourism infrastructure.
– State Ownership of Assets: All ports and related assets, along with upgrades financed by Saint Lucia Cruise Port, will remain the property of the State of Saint Lucia, under the vigilant management and oversight of SLASPA.
–Â Maintenance Commitment:Â Saint Lucia Cruise Port is fully accountable for maintaining all cruise-related assets throughout the duration of the concession.
– Debt Relief for SLASPA: A substantial EC$46 million will be utilized to retire the existing loan taken by SLASPA for cruise-related infrastructure.
– Infrastructure Development: EC$117 million will fund critical upgrades, including:
– Construction of the Castries waterfront boardwalk.
– Comprehensive redesign of the Vendors Arcade and Jeremie Street Shopping Centre.
– Redevelopment of Banannes Bay into the Banannes Fisherman’s Village.
РEnhancement of the Soufri̬re waterfront and related piers.
Local Oversight and Benefits:
– The Vendors Arcade, though upgraded by Saint Lucia Cruise Port, will retain its sole ownership, management, and control under the Castries Constituency City Council, ensuring all revenues exclusively benefit the Council.
– The Pointe Seraphine Duty-Free Complex remains under the complete management of Invest Saint Lucia.
Community-Focused Projects:
– Banannes Fisherman’s Village:This modern facility will revolutionize fish landing and vending operations, creating exceptional experiences for cruise visitors and locals alike. It will feature authentic food and beverage outlets, souvenir shops, kiosks, entertainment zones, expanded parking, and a tender jetty for sea arrivals.
– Castries Waterfront Boardwalk: A scenic promenade will connect the Vendors Arcade to Heroes Park near the Sans Souci Bridge, greatly enhancing access between Point Seraphine and the Castries City Centre, providing a safe and appealing environment for both visitors and residents.
– Jeremie Street Redevelopment: The removal of the old Customs Building and integration with La Place Carenage and the Vendors Arcade will establish a seamless, modern downtown experience. This redesign will improve taxi access and strengthen opportunities for local craft and produce markets.
– Soufrière Waterfront: Designed to boost Soufrière’s status as Saint Lucia’s tourism hub, this project will deliver an innovative waterfront featuring an amphitheatre, reconstructed piers, and a revitalized Baron Drive, providing a platform for hair braiders, artisans, local culinary operators, and eco-tour providers, all developed in close collaboration with the Soufrière Regional Development Foundation.
Commitment to Saint Lucia: Saint Lucia Cruise Port is unwavering in its commitment to ensure these investments yield long-term benefits for the people of Saint Lucia, stimulate local business opportunities, and enhance the visitor experience—all while preserving the complete ownership of the nation’s assets under SLASPA’s authority.