Starting Thursday, August 15, all local visitors entering the Grand Turk Cruise Center (GTCC) must obtain a one-day identification badge before being allowed inside. This new guideline is one of several measures aimed at enhancing the safety and security of cruise passengers, employees, and local residents.
Carnival Corporation, the Grand Turk Cruise Center, and the Turks & Caicos Islands Government approved the new guidelines.
| Carnival Corporation’s Vice President of Destination Operations, Juan Fernandez, expressed his concurrence, “We greatly appreciate the collaborative spirit of partnership from government and cruise center leaders to provide an added layer of security at the Grand Turk Cruise Center facilities, while also allowing residents all opportunities to enjoy the beach, shopping, and restaurants.” |
One of the major rules is that only people with GTCC-issued ID badges will be allowed to enter. The ID badge is a must for individuals aged 18 and above. Anyone younger must be accompanied by an adult who has a GTCC ID.
The document is free and will be distributed at the entrance. It is available during the cruise port’s operating hours when a vessel is in port. To secure one, cruisers must show a valid government ID.
No Solicitation, Illegal Activities, Weapons, and Other GTCC Guidelines
Aside from protecting guests, the new rules are designed to support local businesses and cultivate a business-friendly environment.
- Visitors cannot pursue business activities in the GTCC. Only tour operators approved by the port and cruise lines can offer their services. Sales or solicitation are prohibited.
- Illegal activity—including the use and sale of narcotics, theft, and assault or threats of assault—is forbidden.
- GTCC visitors should not interfere with the work of GTCC employees and licensed tour operators.
- Visitors must not become public nuisances to employees, tour operators, or guests. They must keep pedestrian corridors unobstructed and should not compromise other people’s comfort, enjoyment, and morals with their behavior.
- Weapons like firearms and knives are not allowed inside.
- Individuals must refrain from offensive, threatening, and abusive language and behaviors.
Violators risk having their GTCC IDs revoked. They may also be asked to leave the cruise port and could be referred to local law enforcement. Additionally, they could be banned from the facility for at least three months.
A recent report mentioned that the only cruise port in Turks and Caicos is not as profitable as before. This is due to the lack of onshore activities for visitors and issues related to illicit drugs and fighting. To address security concerns, drug-sniffing dogs will be deployed in the area.
