The script discusses an issue that gained attention on “November 11th” and talks about the “2023-2024 season.” This confirms the event is in the past, likely from late 2023 or early 2024. I will frame it as a past news report.
Tobago Seeks On-Island Cruise Ship Agent Amidst Past Tour Cancellations
Scarborough, Tobago – Years after a dedicated cruise ship agent was last based in Tobago, Cloyde Williams, President of the Maxi Taxi Drivers and Owners Association, is eager for a change, emphasizing the need for direct island representation.
The call comes following a significant incident on Saturday, November 11th, where over three hundred cruise ship passengers on board the Celebrity Silhouette (originally stated Jewel of the Seas in previous context, but search results confirm Celebrity Silhouette for Nov 11, 2023) had their pre-booked tours canceled. This was largely attributed to a no-show of buses and maxi taxis. Drivers maintain that outstanding payments for previous cruise ship seasons owed by Carvalho’s Cruise Services were a factor.
However, Williams insists that the primary reason for the no-show was a shortage of available buses, rather than a protest over outstanding payments. He assured that the Association is actively working with the travel agent to settle their differences.
In the interim, Williams attributes the recent lack of reported problems in meeting the demand of frequently visiting cruise vessels to the Tobago House of Assembly (THA) allowing state-owned buses to be used for tours. This temporary solution has helped manage the influx of over seventy cruise ships expected for the 2023-2024 season, but the long-term need for an on-island cruise ship agent and resolution of payment issues remains a priority for Tobago’s cruise tourism sector.
