He added that this was part of a strategy to compete with larger properties in the Bahamas, particularly Kerzner International’s Atlantis property on Paradise Island.
“Atlantis is an institution unto itself, and it’s a world class institution, so the challenge for all of us in the Bahamas is to create new and different attractions. For Breezes, that will include up-keeping our property and implementing innovative promotional programmes,” Mr Issa said.
Mr Issa said cruise ship arrivals had increased throughout the Caribbean, despite an overall decrease in visitor arrivals, and many hoteliers were concerned that the cruise ship was benefiting from the promotion of individual destinations, yet contributing little to the growth and development of these places.
With the addition of shopping malls and exclusive brand and designer shops on board these vessels, visitors were less inclined to spend their dollars on shore. Recent data from the Ministry of Tourism indicated cruise ship passenger spend an average of $98 during their stay in the Bahamas.
Mr Issa added that the advent of a crisis situation, such as that caused by the September 11 terrorist attacks, had created both changes and opportunities.
