Cruising to the Bahamas to Possibly Return in November or December the Earliest.

It appears that cruising from the port of New York to the Bahamas will not happen until November or December - the earliest. The Bahamas Minister of Tourism held a press conference where a 4 Phase plan was unveiled. The island nation, has completed most of Phase 1 and 2. Beginning October 15, The Bahamas will enter Phase 3 of the Tourism Readiness & Recovery Plan ahead of the busy holiday season, which will include the reopening of beaches and major hotels. Minister of Tourism Dionisio D’Aguilar announced that all hotel guests must “Vacation in Place” (VIP) for 14 days or the length of their stay, whichever is shorter. During their Vacation in Place period, guests will have access to all amenities, including hotel spas, gyms, bars and more. Additionally, Phase 3 will also see the reopening of attractions, excursions and tours on November 1.

Ahead of the October 15th reopening, The Ministry of Tourism is working with airline partners to secure direct airlift from key markets where the curve has been flattened.

Following the safe move into Phase 3, the Ministry of Tourism along with the Ministry of Health and other government agencies will recommend an appropriate date to enter Phase 4, which pertains to the reopening of vendors, select attractions, casinos, cruises and ferries.

The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism’s commitment to revitalizing the country’s tourism industry while ensuring the health and wellbeing of citizens, residents and visitors of The Bahamas remains paramount. Tourism has played an integral role in The Bahamas’ economy, accounting for more than 50% of the country’s GDP and 60% of national employment.

A good portion of the winter and Spring cruises departing from New York sail to the Bahamas, Florida and the Private Islands of the Bahamas. Until the Bahamas allows cruise passengers to return - cruising from New York and New Jersey may not return until April / May.

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