90-day stay approved for visiting yacht crews

MAY 30, 2011: Mr. Speaker, flexibility in policy making is one of the strengths of good government. There is a requirement to adjust even well-intentioned policies that may not reflect how best we wish to position our Island home to tourists of all varieties. As the minister responsible for immigration I recognize that we as a Government must all play our part in improving the odds for the recovery of tourism and support the hard work of the Minister and her team.

Mr. Speaker, in 2005 the cruise ship industry signaled its need to change the deployment of ships to Bermuda. Our niche vessels like the Zenith, Horizon and Norwegian Majesty were being phased out for use in other markets. Responding to that change became the task of the Government and other important stakeholders at our ports.

Mr. Speaker, this Government is on record as having encouraged the creation of a mega-yacht port for Bermuda and has suggested either end of the Island as possible venues. The historic elegance of St. George’s and its spectacular natural harbour makes it a fine spot for this activity. With the two cruise ship piers in Dockyard, the course correction that has resulted from the use of larger ships to serve Bermuda has demonstrated to some, the wisdom of cultivating yachting business.

Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to announce today that to further encourage this brand of tourism and to stimulate the economic benefits this business can bring, Cabinet has approved a revised policy for visiting yachts.

Mr. Speaker, with effect from 1st June visiting yachts and their crews will be granted a maximum ninety (90) day stay on arrival in Bermuda. In keeping with best practice and standard immigration policy, we will ask these visitors to provide proof of citizenship and of the means to repatriate themselves by air; proof of health insurance and a declaration not to seek or take up employment in Bermuda. The fee for this long stay, Mr. Speaker, will be set at a nominal $250. Extensions for up to a further 90 days will also be permitted on application to the Department of Immigration.

Mr. Speaker, I wish to thank my colleague, the Honourable Member, Minister Minors, the Minister of Business Development and Tourism for her support of this change.

Mr. Speaker, visiting yachts and crews spent over $10 million in Bermuda in 2010. Extending the permitted length of stay will increase this contribution to the local economy and do more to further the positive image of Bermuda as open for business and demonstrate more red carpet and less red tape.

Thank you Mr. Speaker.