World’s Largest Cruise Ship Makes Historic First Call to SKN
A major milestone for St Kitts and Nevis tourism was marked today as the world’s largest cruise ship, Royal Caribbean International’s Star of the Seas, made its inaugural call at Port Zante, welcomed by government officials, cruise executives, and tourism leaders in a formal plaque exchange ceremony.
The event brought together Prime Minister Dr Terrance Drew, Tourism Minister Marsha T. Henderson, members of Cabinet, and senior officials from the Royal Caribbean Group, alongside representatives from the Ministry of Tourism, the St Kitts Tourism Authority, the St Christopher Air and Sea Ports Authority, and Delisle Walwyn & Co. Ltd.
A Shared Vision for the Future of Tourism
In his address, Prime Minister Drew praised Royal Caribbean for its enduring partnership with the Federation, describing the visit as “a moment that goes beyond tourism.”
“The arrival of this remarkable vessel represents more than tourism. It signals a shared commitment to innovation, sustainability, and responsible growth,” he said. “We recognise that the future of travel and tourism must align with the urgent need to protect our environment, and today, we celebrate a partner who shares this vision.”
The Star of the Seas, the newest ship in Royal Caribbean’s Icon Class, has been hailed as a technological marvel — equipped with cutting-edge systems that support the company’s Destination Net Zero Initiative, which aims for net-zero emissions by 2050.
Confidence in St Kitts’ Tourism Future
Tourism Minister Marsha T. Henderson echoed the Prime Minister’s sentiments, calling the visit both symbolic and strategic for St Kitts’ growing cruise sector.
“Our Ministry has worked diligently to foster partnerships with Royal Caribbean Group,” she said. “The Star of the Seas’ call reflects the confidence Royal Caribbean has in our vision, our infrastructure, and our people. This collaboration is a testament to what we can achieve when strategy, hospitality, and ambition converge.”
The ceremony, a longstanding maritime tradition, marked the official beginning of what both sides described as a renewed era of cooperation — one that positions St Kitts as a key stop for major global cruise lines focused on sustainability and community benefit.
A Boost for the Federation
The Government reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening cruise partnerships and ensuring that tourism continues to deliver tangible benefits for Kittitians and Nevisians through job creation, economic growth, and community investment.
As Star of the Seas departed Port Zante with the St Kitts and Nevis flag flying high, the message from Basseterre was clear — the Federation is ready to welcome the world, sustainably.
