Moto Electric Vehicles trolley at the Ann E. Abramson Marine Facility on St. Croix. Photo Credit: VIPA
ST. CROIX — Cruise passengers docking at the Ann E. Abramson Marine Facility on St. Croix can now expect more convenient transportation to and from their ships, thanks to a new initiative by the V.I Port Authority.
VIPA has acquired a Moto Electric Vehicles trolley capable of carrying up to 38 passengers and specifically designed to assist those needing help to cover the 1,526-foot expanse of the cruise ship pier. Additionally, the trolley is fully ADA-compliant.
VIPA Executive Director Carlton Dowe announced the acquisition, revealing that the Royal Caribbean Group (RCG) had requested the trolley during the 2023 Seatrade Cruise Convention held in March. Following the convention, VIPA and RCG entered into a partnership agreement aimed at enhancing the territory's cruise industry.
"RCG has kept its promise to bring 140,000 cruise visitors to Frederiksted. VIPA is now proud to deliver on our pledge to make the arrival experience at our pier in Frederiksted more accessible for our visitors," Mr. Dowe stated. "We look forward to another robust cruise season on St. Croix and a continued successful partnership with Royal Caribbean Group."
The new trolley is part of a broader plan to almost triple RCG's calls to St. Croix during the 2023 cruise season, VIPA said. T xo support the eco-friendly vehicle, a charging station has been installed at the dock, and the trolley will be operated by trained VIPA personnel.
In a gesture of thanks, Mr. Dowe also acknowledged Diageo USVI for donating a smaller trolley earlier this year. The donation has already been aiding in the transportation of cruise passengers and complements the newly introduced, larger trolley.
This latest addition to the Ann E. Abramson Marine Facility underscores a focused effort by local and international stakeholders to improve visitor experiences and make St. Croix a more accessible and attractive cruise destination.
