As English Harbour prepares for the 2024/25 sailing and cruise season, significant upgrades are transforming the area. A newly surfaced and painted cruise terminal, complete with fresh walls, has replaced a former car park. Developed in line with International Safety Management (ISM) regulations, the terminal is now an officially recognized facility. Additionally, a newly tarmacked road has replaced the once cratered path leading to the harbour.
However, tensions are rising beneath the polished exterior. The new terminal has displaced more than 30 parking spaces, worsening an already strained situation. During peak season, parking is notoriously scarce, leading to frequent clashes between residents and tourists.
While the terminal promises to enhance the cruise passenger experience, locals are concerned about the fallout. “If cars can use the car park as promised when cruise ships aren’t here, it might be fine,” said a local businessman. But with over 30 cruise ships expected this season, finding alternative parking seems unlikely.
Critics argue that the National Parks Authority (NPA) is prioritizing cruise tourism over yachting, despite commitments in its development plan. The plan outlines clear objectives to support a vibrant yachting industry, including competitive policies and infrastructure to position English Harbour as a top Caribbean yachting destination. However, with recent upgrades favoring cruise ship facilities, some question whether these goals are being sidelined. Section 4.6.6 calls for enhancing Falmouth’s marine infrastructure, but progress remains slow. Yacht operators fear the focus on cruise tourism undermines the harbour’s reputation as a premier yachting hub, potentially driving business to rival destinations like St. Kitts and St. Martin.
Several seasoned yacht skippers have already opted to relocate. “It’s chaotic enough as it is,” one skipper remarked. “With fewer spaces, I’m heading to another island.” Charter yachts are now seeking alternative locations, and other island destinations are eager to capitalise.
Although a Town Hall meeting was held, many residents felt it was more of a briefing than a genuine consultation. Under Antigua’s Physical Planning Act, any development likely to impact the environment or local communities requires meaningful public consultation. “The fact that no proper discussion was held is disappointing,” said one resident. “We understand the need for improvements, but these changes directly affect us.”
Environmental concerns are also mounting. With more cruise ships expected, locals fear that the increased use of large anchors could damage the island’s coral reefs, undermining marine conservation efforts. “Now that we have an official cruise terminal, any overflow from the main docks in town will likely be redirected here,” warned a local environmentalist. “This could devastate the reefs further.”
As the new season approaches, finding a balance between the benefits of the cruise terminal and the needs of the environment, residents, and other harbour users remains a critical challenge. Whether these changes will enhance English Harbour’s appeal or drive visitors away is yet to be seen.
The National Parks Authority dictates all development in the area. IPB was unable to reach Ann-Marie Martin for comments on the residents’ concerns
