In late news before late publication there is the announcement that the ferry service will revert to four days weekly.
It seems surprising and must be a stark indication of the tourism activity in the height of the tourist season. The following release from GIU (Government Information Unit) describes in very simple terms that Montserrat is not likely to see anything near what it used to with respect to tourist arrivals.
This also serves as further information as to the complexity to the ferry and access to Montserrat, according to the Ministry of Tourism officials.
The Release – The Ministry of Communications Works and Labour wishes to inform the public that effective next week (3rd week in January) until the end of January 2012, the Ferry schedule will change to two (2) days weekly, i.e., Fridays and Saturdays only. A further decision will be made by the end of January with respect to services for the remainder of the financial year.
This measure is deemed necessary in light of the very low volume of passengers which are currently travelling and likely to travel during the first quarter of 2012. The costs of operating the ferry are substantial and to a large extent are not being met by the low volumes being experienced.
The Ministry trusts that the public understands and will plan their travels in keeping with the schedule of services by sea and air.
The access issue is among the main discussions when the economy and development of Montserrat are on the table.
