Dear Source:
I was also pleased to see the coverage of St. Croix in the CTL's most recent issue and the article was quite accurate. As a property owner in St. Croix and long-time visitor of this beautiful island, I too have predicted the resurgence of St. Croix as a tourist destination.
My only suggestion or criticism of the popular views concern the "cruise ship" issue. I strongly disagree that cruise ship visitors will enhance any aspect of St. Croix's resurgence or economic development. Cruise ship passengers are typically a rash. Remember, all cruise passengers are fed unlimited amounts of great food on the ship. They will not dine in any of St. Croix's superb restaurants, which is one of the island's great attractions. They expect to be pampered on their ships and their expectations are unreasonable when they get off. They will see only the western rim of the island and not taste much of Christiansted, one of the most charming cities in the Caribbean. They will take some half-baked shore excursions with limited time and go back on their ships having experienced none of the laid back and magical days that we as residents or tourists enjoy on St. Croix. It is not a boon to this island to have cruise ship passengers spend ephemeral moments here. This island is for longer-term vacationers wanting to relax and take their time enjoying all of the diverse and wonderful experiences St. Croix has to offer. We are better off working with the airlines to promote more direct flights from the mainland and advertising St. Croix to longer-term visitors.
Jack W. Cline
Grove City, Pa./St. Croix
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