| Basseterre, St. Kitts (12 November 2023) – Today heralds a new chapter in the history of St. Kitts as we warmly welcome the inaugural cruise call of the spectacular Explora I, an expedition cruise ship from the MSC Group. This event marks the beginning of a fruitful partnership between St. Kitts and Explora Journeys of the MSC Group, with a shared commitment to promoting sustainable eco-tourism, and presents a phenomenal opportunity to showcase the abundance of natural beauty that the destination has to offer. Explora I, a state-of-the-art ship, is designed to provide a unique and unparalleled experience to adventure travelers. Measuring an impressive 102 meters in length and with a cruising speed of 14 knots, the cruise ship consists of 56 well-appointed cabins that can comfortably house 113 guests along with a crew of 70. A range of cozy lounges, bars, and restaurants offer guests a wide variety of options for relaxation and dining, while a library and wellness center cater to those who wish to unwind and rejuvenate. With a focus on eco-tourism, Explora I is equipped to offer a range of tailor-made expedition excursions that invite guests to explore the pristine natural beauty of St. Kitts. From hiking through lush rainforests, kayaking down scenic rivers, and snorkeling through crystal clear waters, the expedition cruises offer an array of unique experiences that showcase the multifaceted beauty of St. Kitts. Today’s inaugural cruise call of Explora I in St. Kitts not only signifies the beginning of a new era in the expedition cruising industry but also emphasizes the importance of eco-tourism for our island. The arrival of Explora I presents an array of opportunities for our economy and positions St. Kitts as a world-class hub for sustainable tourism practices. As an increasing number of travelers seek to explore uncharted territories in an eco-friendly and responsible way, St. Kitts, with its idyllic landscape, is an ideal destination to cater to those needs. Commenting on the inaugural cruise call of Explora I, Ellison “Tommy” Thompson, CEO of the St. Kitts Tourism Authority, expressed his enthusiasm by stating, “We are thrilled to welcome Explora I to St. Kitts today. St. Kitts is renowned for its unmatched natural beauty, and by opening our doors to a cruise ship such as Explora I only emphasize the abundance of unique experiences the destination has to offer. We are excited to work with Explora Journeys and explore opportunities that promote eco-tourism, sustainable practices, and responsible tourism to showcase the natural beauty of St. Kitts to the world.” As St. Kitts works towards a sustainable future and welcome a new era in tourism, the destination looks forward to aligning with like-minded partners to create cherished memories for visitors while contributing to the prosperity of its local economy.# |
