Royal Caribbean Call on New Port in Jamaica

After months of delays, Royal Caribbean International's Voyager of the Seas on Feb. 17 became the first ship to call at the Historic Falmouth port. Located between the cruise ports of Ocho Rios and Montego Bay, Historic Falmouth is a thematic cruise port and gateway to more than 60 land experiences along the north coast of Jamaica.

"We are delighted to see Voyager of the Seas make the first-ever ship call at Historic Falmouth," said Craig Milan, senior vice president of land operations for Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. "By partnering with the Port Authority of Jamaica, we are working to deliver our shared vision of Falmouth's rebirth. Together, we are bringing the town's historic sites to life and integrating the culture and authenticity of this destination into a superior guest experience."

The grand opening celebrations will take place on March 22 when Oasis of the Seas makes its maiden call. Other Royal Caribbean ships that will call at Falmouth include Freedom of the Seas on Feb. 23, Navigator of the Seas on Feb. 24, and Allure of the Seas on March 30. Shore excursions from Falmouth include a visit to Good Hope Great House, an 18th century plantation, for a horse-and-carriage ride, river-tubing and ATV exploring; climbing Dunn's River Falls; sampling rums at Appleton Estate; and river rafting on a 30-foot bamboo raft.

"Falmouth has an important place in the cultural history of Jamaica. It is especially rewarding for us to use that history as an entrée for a new generation of guests," said Mike Henry, Jamaica's minister of transport and works, who has responsibility for cruise shipping. "Our sights have always been set on being the pre-eminent cruise destination, and with the best-in-class berthing facilities at the Historic Falmouth port, we'll now easily welcome the world's largest ships."

The revitalization of Historic Falmouth is a multi-phased development project with the first phase near completion; it offers a two-berth pier, retail and restaurant services, and a transportation center. Subsequent phases will include onsite attractions and experiences, hotel and residential developments, and additional retail and restaurant options. The town also has many prominent houses, shops and public buildings built in the 18th and 19th centuries that are still standing, but are in need of refurbishment. The restoration and preservation of several historic buildings in Falmouth is currently underway.