The President and CEO of Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) announced on March 16, 2016, that the first call to Harvest Caye will be on November 15, 2016, and the caye will have calls four (4) times for the week. The announcement was made during a presentation at Seatrade Cruise Global – the world’s largest cruise industry event. Both the Minister of Tourism and Civil Aviation, Hon. Manuel Heredia Jr, and the Director of Tourism, Mrs. Karen Bevans, were present for the announcement.
President and Chief Operating Officer for NCL, Mr. Andy Stuart, stated, “Belize is one of the most ecologically and culturally rich gems in the Caribbean, and Harvest Caye will be the perfect destination for guests to experience all that the country has to offer in authentic, unique ways. There is so much to do on the island from the spectacular seven acre beach and watersports, to interactive wildlife programs. Beyond Harvest Caye, we will strongly encourage our guests to explore Belize through the spectacular eco-adventure and cultural tours this incredible destination has to offer visitors.”
Colin Murphy – Senior Vice President of Destination and Port Operations, NCL
Senior Vice President of Destination and Port Operations, Mr. Colin Murphy, touched on the topic of employment for Belizeans. He commented, “It’s very important to the government and very important to us that we create as many jobs as possible. We’ve used up to 200 Belizeans on a regular basis during construction. Once in operation, with people employed directly by us and by the concessions, we’re going to employ around four to five hundred people, which is huge for this area, then there is a big multiplier down the line.”
Minister of Tourism and Civil Aviation, Hon. Manuel Heredia Jr. then addressed the audience. He commended NCL for believing in Belize and is sure that Harvest Caye will be a great destination, having a great impact in the south of Belize. He stated, “It will be a great destination and we have the entire support of our government for this project. We are looking forward to partnering with them. Artisans, tour guides, and all tourism related jobs will increase in numbers and there will also be an increase in livelihood. We will do whatever it takes to ensure the project will become the pride of the south and the pride of NCL.”
The resort style port will feature luxurious amenities, a variety of eco- activities, the country’s only cruise ship pier, and easy access to mainland Belize for adventure excursions or cultural engagements. The island boasts a seven acre beach where guests can opt to rent one of 11 luxurious beach villas for the day, which can accommodate up to 10 guests; a 15,000 sq. ft. pool with a swim up bar, lounge tables and bar stools in the water; 15 canopy pool cabanas; 130 ft. tall Flighthouse as the central area for a variety of aerial activities including zip lining, suspension bridges, free fall jumps, and stunning views of the verdant hills of the mainland. Guests will also be able to enjoy water sports such as kayaking, paddle boarding and canoeing. The caye will feature numerous dining and bar options, as well as a shopping village.
To further conservations efforts, 10,000 new mangroves have been planted throughout the island to increase the number of natural habitats for birds, young fish and other marine species.
Hon. Manuel Heredia Jr. – Minister of Tourism and Civil Aviation, Belize
L-R: Hon. Manuel Heredia Jr. – Minister of Tourism and Civil Aviation; Mrs. Heredia; Karen Bevans
