Bahamas Targets Cruise Line Private Islands With New Rules

Editorial Summary

Doug Barker reports on several developments affecting the cruise industry, beginning with new tax proposals in the Bahamas. Prime Minister Philip Davis has indicated that while cruise passengers account for 83 percent of all visitors to the country, tax revenue has not kept pace. The proposed budget seeks to expand Value Added Tax collection to include imports, guest services, and high end offerings such as luxury cabanas. Discussions with cruise lines are currently underway to establish sustainable terms for these changes. Additionally, the United States State Department has lowered the travel advisory for Jamaica from level three to level two, reflecting improved safety conditions following a visit from Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Although major crimes near cruise ports have dropped by 18 percent, officials still advise caution regarding nighttime travel and remote areas. In company news, Cunard Line is implementing new room service charges for Britannia class staterooms for orders placed after 10:00 a.m., though breakfast remains free. Finally, the report notes positive movement in cruise industry stocks, with Carnival Corporation, Royal Caribbean, and Viking all seeing gains on Monday.

Written by TripBacon from this video's transcript.