New Grand Turk Cruise Center access policy addresses safety concerns

The changes, which involve providing identification to enter the site, only by the main gate and, for individuals under 18, accompanied by an adult, take effect Aug. 15.

Mutual agreement of government and Carnival Corp.

The policy was reached in agreement between the Turks and Caicos government and Carnival Corp. with the shared desire to allow residents access while fostering a safe and secure environment for passengers, employees and the community.

'This is super-positive,' an industry source unrelated to Carnival told Seatrade Cruise News. 'Grand Turk has been plagued by some harassment issues and other access concerns and the fact government and Carnival Corporation came together on a program that still allows locals access to the port can only be viewed in a positive light.'

Family- and business-friendly environment

'By promoting a family-friendly atmosphere, these guidelines will also maintain the popularity of Grand Turk with cruise guests, support local businesses and foster a welcoming and business-friendly environment for food, beverage, shore excursion and retail partners,' a joint government/Carnival Corp. announcement said.

Juan Fernandez, VP of Carnival Corp.'s destination operations, expressed appreciation for the 'collaborative spirit of partnership from government and cruise center leaders to provide an added layer of security' at the facilities 'while also allowing residents all opportunities to enjoy the beach, shopping and restaurants.'

Identification badge

Effective Aug. 15, when a ship is in port, the public will be granted access only by obtaining a one-day identification badge, free of charge, at the main entrance guard gate. Individuals 18 and over must present a valid form of government ID, and those under 18 must be accompanied by an adult with a valid ID.

Individuals who've violated the Grand Turk Cruise Center's code of conduct will be denied entry, and anyone without an ID badge will be asked to leave immediately and referred to law enforcement.

Code of conduct

Visitors are not allowed to engage in any business activities, sales or solicitation. No illegal activities such as narcotics sales or use, theft, assault or threats will be allowed.

Visitors shall not interfere in employees' work activities or with licensed tour operators.

The code of conduct also prohibits posing a public nuisance such as obstructing pedestrians or engaging in 'any act that endangers the morals, comfort level of the public or obstructs the enjoyment of rights common to all.'

Weapons are prohibited, along with 'abusive, offensive, threatening language or behaviors.'

Turks and Caicos premier weighs in

Commenting on the revised standard operating procedures, Turks and Caicos Premier Charles Washington Misick said the government’s role is 'to ensure that those with access to the facilities at the Grand Turk Cruise Center — be they cruise passengers, tour operators, vendors [or] visitors to the port — have an enjoyable experience.  The government is committed to working with Grand Turk Cruise Center to improve service delivery so that the destination remains competitive, whilst ensuring safety and providing sustainable economic opportunities,' he added.