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Newest Caribbean port named best
The cruise industry’s newest Caribbean destination, Grand Turk in the Turk and Caicos Islands, has been selected as the “Best New Port of Call” in Porthole Magazine’s annual Editor-in-Chief Awards.
What was it based on?
The winners were selected by the publication’s editor-in-chief and publisher Bill Panoff, who chose Grand Turk based on these elements: its favorable response from cruise guests, diversity of shore excursion opportunities, and superior facilities at the new $42 million Grand Turk Cruise Center.
“I was utterly impressed when I visited the new Grand Turk Cruise Center,” said Mr Panoff. “I’m sure that cruisers will agree that Grand Turk is a rising star in the Caribbean.”
The accolade came only a year after the center’s grand opening, pointed out Micheal Misick, premier of the Turks and Caicos Islands.
Since its inauguration in February 2006, the Grand Turk Cruise Center has exceeded expectations with 136 cruise ship calls and 295,000 passengers in its first year of operation
The Grand Turk Cruise Center, which can accommodate up to 5,000-passengers per day, includes a 13-acre complex including an expansive recreation area, shops and what is termed the Caribbean’s largest “Margaritaville”-themed bar and restaurant.
Twenty shore excursions are offered at the center. Land-based tours include beach horseback riding, bicycling, beach breaks, 4×4 vehicle adventures and marine-based tours including everything from snorkeling to helmet diving. More excursions are scheduled to be introduced during the coming year.
Report by David Wilkening
David
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