Today, the Premier, the Hon. Michael H. Dunkley welcomed senior officials from Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) to the Cabinet Office for a special courtesy visit.
NCL Executive Vice President of Vessel Operations Robin Lindsay and Senior Vice President Luigi Lazeto along with other key NCL personnel are currently on-Island conducting operational and logistical meetings in anticipation of providing a specialised intra-port tender service for NCL's cruise ship passengers, beginning in a few weeks.
During the visit, Premier Dunkley said he "appreciated the strong relationship Bermuda has enjoyed over many years with NCL". He also noted the importance of having cruise ship visits to the Island's three ports as cruise activity enhances value throughout the Island.
Meanwhile, Mr. Lindsay said that NCL passengers enjoy Bermuda as a "beautiful and clean resort", adding that becoming the host venue for the America's Cup was an impressive feat for the Island, and has drawn a great deal of attention to Bermuda.
Note:
The public will be aware that NCL has pledged to provide a ship's tender service for the next five years, which will begin this year with a 400-seat, high speed charter vessel with a 5200 horsepower motor. The 133-foot, 4-engine transport was built in 2008 and could be on the island and operational as early as May, after the completion of refurbishments. With a top speed of 25 knots, the tender service is expected to provide further manoeuvrability for NCL passengers, as the world's third largest cruise ship company services Bermuda's three ports.
Photo includes: Premier Dunkley, NCL Executive Vice President of Vessel Operations Robin Lindsay, Senior Vice President Luigi Lazeto and Cruiseport Ferry Management Ltd. CEO Beau Evans.