BASSETERRE, St. Kitts - THE arrival of the world’s largest cruise ship, Harmony of the Seas, was the hot topic discussed by many in downtown Basseterre yesterday (May, 3).
One of the most modern vessels sailing the seas, the cruise liner boast 46-wheel chair accessible staterooms, 16 passenger decks, 6,780 guest spaces and a crew numbering 2,100, among other amenities.
Staff Captain Kenneth Moeller told reporters that the vessel, which is registered under the Bahamian Flag, is essential above all others in its class.
“The difference of this class of ship with the others is that we have the central park or the outdoor park. We have the outdoor boardwalk which gives you the idea that you are in Coney Island in New York,” the captain explained.
Moeller pointed to the aqua-theatre as another of the main attractions on the vessel, adding that a lot of technology went into putting that together.
Since its maiden voyage on May 29, 2016, the vessel has been the center focus for most passengers, boasted Moeller.
He noted that passengers often choose to cruise with that particular vessel and explained that they were always booked to capacity when venturing to seas, carrying close to 10,000 passenger and crew members.
“It has been fully booked all the time. We have a lot of loyal guests who keep coming again and again to this ship specifically. One of the things that our guests mentioned was the fact that we have a very loyal crew onboard and they are appreciative of the way they are treated.”
The local docking pilots came in for commendation from the young captain, who applauded them for their efforts in guiding a vessel of that size safely to shore.
The Harmony of the Seas is expected to make bi-weekly calls to St. Kitts and Nevis.
According to Captain Moeller, the ship is 322 meters long; approximately 72 meters in height from water level; possesses retractable funnels if it needs to pass under a bridge; and boast an ice skating ring where shows are held.
Meanwhile, Minister of Tourism Hon. Lindsay Grant, and the Hon. Ian ‘Patches’ Liburd had participated in a simple plaque exchange ceremony with the captain and his crew onboard the vessel.
In addition to the two Ministers, in attendance were Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Tourism, Carlene Henry-Morton, members of SCASPA, other government officials, members of the media and representatives from the local agent, Delisle Walwyn & CO. Ltd.
