After months of restoration work in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, the port of Ocho Rios officially reopened to cruise operations on November 11th, welcoming HAL-Holland America Line’s Zuiderdam and MSC Divina as the first vessels to dock since the storm. The dual arrivals mark a pivotal moment for Jamaica’s tourism industry and the wider community of St. Ann, which had faced prolonged economic disruption following severe storm damage to the cruise pier in February 2024.
The return of cruise traffic comes after 20 months of closure, during which extensive repairs were undertaken to restore the port’s facilities and ensure full operational readiness. For many local businesses and workers—ranging from tour operators to craft vendors—the resumption of cruise activity signals the long-awaited return of economic stability.
Residents gathered along the harbor to witness the ships’ arrival, viewing the moment as a sign of renewed vitality for the region’s tourism sector. Local authorities confirmed that a formal reopening ceremony for the Ocho Rios Cruise Ship Pier will be held the following day, recognizing the collective effort that enabled the port’s recovery and reaffirming its role as one of Jamaica’s principal cruise destinations.