Fort James Targeted for Development as Cruise Passenger Numbers Climb

Plans are under way to expand tourism infrastructure beyond the port gates, with Fort James emerging as a potential focus area as cruise passenger arrivals continue to rise.

Gaspar George, General Manager of Antigua Cruise Port and Global Ports Holding’s Regional Director for Operations and Product Development, said growing visitor numbers are placing pressure on popular beaches near St. John’s, prompting discussions about developing new tourism avenues.

“We know that there are areas that we can partner with, for example, our beaches, especially those that are near the port, are very crowded on busy days. If we are increasing those numbers, we need to create new opportunities, new avenues, open up new beaches,” George said during an interview on Government in Motion .

He added that the port intends to work with the government and other stakeholders on developing Fort James as part of a broader effort to elevate the overall visitor experience.

“We will be working with the government of Antigua and also the peoples on developing Fort James. So this is another area we’re looking at — as to beyond the port — how can we participate in elevating that experience on a whole,” he said .

The proposal comes as cruise arrivals trend upward, with officials projecting close to one million passengers for the year. Increased home-porting activity has also led to more visitors spending time in St. John’s and surrounding areas, heightening the need for expanded recreational and tour options .

Fort James, located just north of the capital, has long been viewed as an underutilized historic and beach asset. Port officials say any development would aim to complement existing sites while easing congestion at beaches that currently receive the bulk of cruise passenger traffic.

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