Proposed Policy: Onboard Casinos for Docked Cruise Ships

Kenneth Bryan, the Cayman Islands Minister of Tourism and Ports, has introduced a proposal to permit cruise ships to keep their onboard casinos open while docked in Caymanian waters. This change aims to encourage cruise ships to extend their visits, staying overnight and bringing more activity to the local economy.

Economic Boost: Revitalizing George Town’s Tourism Economy

The policy is seen as a potential boon for George Town’s businesses and local economy, with overnight stays expected to drive more visitors to local shops, restaurants, and attractions. Bryan highlighted that early discussions with cruise operators indicate support for the change, as it would enhance the Cayman Islands’ appeal as a cruise destination.

Conditional on Cruise Pier Referendum

The proposal is linked to a planned national referendum on building a new cruise berthing pier, as it would rely on the pier to facilitate extended stays. Should the pier move forward, onboard casino operations could be allowed under carefully designated hours, ensuring passengers have time to explore the island before returning to the ship.

Preserving Local Laws with Controlled Access

The proposed change would only allow cruise passengers to gamble onboard docked ships, keeping local residents excluded to respect the territory’s gambling prohibition. Security protocols, including electronic cruise pass scanning and monitored port access, would support this restriction.

Support from Tourism Advocates

Supporters of the cruise berth project, such as former legislator Ellio Solomon and the Association for the Advancement of Cruise Tourism, have shown cautious optimism, seeing this policy as a potential driver for economic growth and a step toward enhancing the Cayman Islands’ cruise tourism appeal.

Broader Tourism Goals

This initiative aligns with the Ministry’s broader goals to enrich the cruise tourism experience and, if approved, could mark a shift in the Cayman Islands’ approach to attracting and engaging cruise visitors for extended stays.