Speaking to JTV’s the Big Story on January 8, 2021, Marketing Director of the BVIPA, Natasha J. Chalwell told host Cathy O. Richards that the territory can expect the two ships as early as next week from the 11th and the 12th of January, 2021.

“The Cruise Pier is a secured area it always has been and it continues to be during the time that these two ships are birth, we will be hosting 2 ships from the Royal Caribbean group so the Rhapsody of the Seas and the Grandeur of the Seas,” Chalwell said.

However, the Marketing Director further revealed that the ships will not be fully crewed, given it has no regular passengers.

Speaking on JTV’s the Big Story in a teaser released today, January 8, 2020, Marketing Director of the BVIPA, Natasha J. Chalwell told host Cathy O. Richards that the territory can expect the two ships as early as next week from the 11th and the 12th of January, 2021.

Ships operating via Hybrid Connection - Marketing Director

“So in normal times if it was a regular cruise call you'd be looking at 400 to 600 crew during their warm lay-up. We're looking at about 80 crew for both ships,” she said.

Mrs Chadwell said that both ships are expected to be birthed in the territory for 30 days with one supporting the other through what is known as a hybrid connection.

Meanwhile, acting Managing Director of the BVIPA Ms Oleanvine Pickering-Maynard via a release on the announcement said the ships will be birthing exclusively to lay-up, refuel, take on provisions and spare parts and possibly other services.

Further, she said crew members will be prohibited from disembarking the ship and there will be no access to the vessels from BVIPA shore-based staff.