Giora Israel, vice president of development and Francisco Nolla, vice president for ports of Carnival Cruise Line were in the DR recently for talks that could lead to an increase in Carnival Cruise ship visits. They have promised to return later this month and begin feasibility studies and evaluations of the conditions of Dominican ports that could be included in their Caribbean cruises. A Carnival Cruise affiliate line, Holland America Line has booked the Veedam for Santo Domingo stops in October through March. The invitation for these to visit came after President-elect Hipólito Mejía returned from experiencing a Caribbean cruise vacation first hand with his family. He was favorably impressed and agreed to fully support Minister of Tourism-elect Ramon Alfredo (Chito) Bordas’ interest in fostering an increase in cruise ships docking in Dominican ports, thus the invitation to Carnival Cruise Line. President-elect Hipólito Mejía already received the cruise line executives. Carnival Cruise executives expressed a possible interest in investing in Puerto Plata to enhance that port to receive cruise ships. Bordas mentioned there were talks of a possible US$50 million investment in the port. Bordas told the press that there is much optimism. "We will again flood the streets of downtown Puerto Plata with tourists," he said. The tourism enclave model of the all-inclusive resorts in the area has affected Puerto Plata, the city. Tourists are provided with all their needs within the complex and are not attracted to visit the city. The arrival of hundreds of maritime visitors would bring new life to the city, making it again attractive also for hotel-staying guests. Bordas also announced that another cruise line, Royal Caribbean has also shown an interest in booking Dominican ports if port facilities are improved. Bordas committed the new government would work closely with the cruise lines to improve the port areas, safety, and dredging of ports. (9 August 2000)
