The Government is pulling out all the stops to ensure the reopening of the main terminal at the Ocho Rios Port in St Ann by the start of the next cruise season in September 2025. The terminal was closed after sustaining severe damage in February 2024 during an unusual weather event.
Prime Minister Andrew Holness, speaking in the House of Representatives on January 21, emphasized the importance of meeting this timeline to avoid disruptions to vessel itineraries.
The damage, caused by a cruise ship repeatedly colliding with Berth 2 at the port, resulted in significant structural issues. A detailed assessment revealed that two of the three breasting dolphins—critical concrete structures supporting moored vessels—require repairs, while the third must be fully reconstructed.
In May 2024, the Port Authority of Jamaica (PAJ) presented a comprehensive report to Cabinet, outlining the damage, proposed solutions, and repair costs. Recognizing the urgency, the Cabinet approved the restoration project with a budget of US$20 million. This includes design, construction, and engineering services to rehabilitate Berth 2 and facilitate plans for a new pier to accommodate larger cruise ships.
The contract for the design and engineering of the repairs, valued at $95.7 million, was awarded to Harbourside Engineering Consultants (HEC). Additionally, HEC’s sister company, Harbourside Geotechnical Consultants, was engaged for technical data collection, at a cost of US$909,130.
Prime Minister Holness noted that the rehabilitation project is being executed in two phases to expedite the work. The first contract, which began in December 2024, includes demolition and preparatory activities, which are expected to be completed in May 2025. The second contract, which is anticipated to start in February 2025, will focus on the remaining repairs and is projected to wrap up by July 2025.
Holness stressed that the contractor is fully aware of the critical timelines and has implemented measures, such as extended working hours and early procurement of key materials, to fast-track the process.
In the interim, vessels scheduled to dock at the Ocho Rios terminal have been redirected to the Reynolds Terminal, with others being accommodated in Falmouth or Montego Bay where necessary. This proactive approach has ensured that Jamaica retains all scheduled cruise calls, safeguarding the livelihoods of craft vendors, taxi operators, and other stakeholders who depend on the cruise industry.
Holness highlighted the foresight shown in developing the Reynolds Pier in 2018, which has helped mitigate the economic impact of the main terminal’s closure. He reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to investing in port infrastructure, underscoring the vital role it plays in driving economic growth and sustaining Jamaica’s tourism sector.
“Every effort is being made to restore operations at the Ocho Rios Port on schedule,” the Prime Minister said. “Our ports are critical to the economy and the livelihood of so many Jamaicans. We remain committed to ensuring their continued development and resilience.”
