Grand Turk is the next Caribbean island to reopen after Hurricanes Irma and Maria swept through in September.
On November 1st, Carnival Ecstasy was the first ship to return to the island of Turks and Caicos. Passengers were greeted with the island’s familiar blue skies and beautiful beaches. Shore excursions were also available to passengers on different parts of the island. Other ships including Carnival Sunshine, Crystal Serenity, and Holland America’s Koningsdam will all be heading to Turks and Caicos in the coming weeks.
After Hurricane Maria passed through Turks & Caicos in September, Carnival assisted with the recovery of Grand Turk and delivered supplies via cruise ship, delivering much needed supplies to the island. As the region continues to recuperate, Carnival ships are providing ongoing support for the communities impacted by the hurricanes.
Many Caribbean ports have reopened, including Antigua, the Bahamas, Barbados, the Florida Keys, Cuba, and St. Kitts, among others. Islands such as St. Thomas and St. Maarten are also expected to re-open in just a few weeks for the 2017-2018 winter season. Travelers cruising to the Caribbean can help relief efforts by donating to relief organizations or by volunteering in areas that need help rebuilding. Traveling to and supporting these countries while they rebuild will be a key economic driver.
Interested in sailing to the Caribbean? Check out Caribbean cruises from Avoya Travel here.