Cruise ship record!

Wednesday November 3, 2010, highlighted a cruise shipping record of six ships calling at ports in Jamaica on a single day.

In Ocho Rios, the Aurora, Freedom of the Seas and Aida Luna were all in port. In Montego Bay, it was the Coral Princess, Carnival Conquest and Ryndam. The six ships brought a total of 15,090 passengers, many of whom disembarked for local tours and shopping, delivering a huge boost to the economy of both towns.

Mike Henry, minister of Transport and Works, who has portfolio responsibility for the Port Authority of Jamaica and cruise shipping, said, "Of course we're thrilled to have a day like this. It is due to the fact that we have physical facilities as well as the variety of attractions and tours that will serve the interests of the cruise guests."

Jamaica recently copped two awards at the Caribbean Gala of the World Travel Awards - that of the Caribbean's Leading Cruise Destination and the Caribbean's Leading Port (Ocho Rios). Jamaica also copped the award for the world's Leading Cruise Destination at the World Gala awards. The Port Authority of Jamaica is the only Caribbean Agency to win at the World Gala.