Speightstown achieved a significant milestone this Sunday as it welcomed its first small cruise vessel, marking a historic moment for one of Barbados’ oldest settlements.
The luxury super yacht Emerald Sakara brought guests ashore via tender boats to the recently refurbished Speightstown Jetty. This marks the first use of moorings installed off Speightstown earlier this year by Barbados Port Inc. (BPI) in collaboration with the Coastal Zone Management Unit.
This development positions Speightstown as a new stop for luxury vessels seeking smaller, intimate ports.
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BPI Chairman Peter Odle described the occasion as a pivotal step in diversifying the island’s cruise offerings:
“The occasion marks a significant milestone in the creation of satellite facilities for the luxury vessel niche who prefer to sail into smaller ports and harbours for a more intimate guest experience. Extensive collaboration with the Coastal Zone Management Unit meant we were able to identify the ideal coastal leisure spots for moorings while safeguarding against ecological disruption.”
The re-opening of the Speightstown Jetty in April 2022, following extensive renovations, has provided the town with vital infrastructure to support cruise tourism. During the visit, personnel from Customs, Immigration, and Port Health will operate out of the Speightstown Fish Market to serve cruise passengers.
This weekend’s event brings back memories of the SV Legacy, operated by Windjammer Barefoot Cruises, which brought guests ashore via tender boats nearly 25 years ago. The vessel made ten visits between June and August 2000.
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Tourism officials are optimistic about the potential boost this initiative will provide to Speightstown’s economy. However, the revival comes amid long-standing efforts to restore the town’s charm, which many residents believe diminished following the construction of the Highway 1 bypass.
Speightstown, affectionately known as “Little Bristol,” has a rich history dating back to 1630, just three years after English settlers arrived in Barbados. Named after William Speight, a prominent landowner and merchant, the town thrived as a bustling trade hub for sugar, cotton, and tobacco in the 17th century. Although its prominence as a port later shifted to Bridgetown, the community remains a testament to Barbados’ vibrant heritage.
This latest development aims to reignite the town’s allure, blending its storied past with modern tourism opportunities, and promises a renewed vibrancy for this historic northern gem.
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