According to Greekwise.com (N/A), a cruise ship is a passenger ship used for vacations or pleasure trips, they are usually very large and are able to accommodate hundreds to thousands of people. This all depends on the size of the ship. These ships generally make round-trips, returning to their first port of departure after a certain number of days at sea. Cruise ships make stops at various ports, where passengers are allowed to leave the ships and explore as they wish. Cruise shipping is a very important aspect of tourism and through different cruise lines, they offer different amenities. These amenities include; round-the-clock-meals, entertainment facilities, recreational facilities, shopping areas and fitness centers.
Cruise shipping in Jamaica is of great importance. This is so because it is one of the fastest growing sectors of the tourism industry in Jamaica. The various cruise ships appeal to different persons, at all times there is potential for growth and this sector will always continue to grow. Cruise shipping impacts Jamaica in many ways and this has allowed the country to reap many benefits and also improve its status as a country being developed. Jamaica is one of the most dependent nations on cruise shipping as a total of 25 or more percent of the country’s Gross Domestic Product is earned through cruise shipping.
Cruise shipping in Jamaica as part of an export based development benefits the country in many ways, and include; an increase or major improvement in foreign exchange, profits and taxes, employment for unemployed persons, among others. It is also seen where cruise shipping requires less infrastructure when compared to stopover tourism at any destination. it does not require large tourist facilities, and that reduces high cost from hotels.
According to Mr. William Tatham, the Vice President of the Cruise Shipping and Mariana Operations in Jamaica, in an interview with the Jamaica Information Service,