Cayman Cruise Referendum Sails to April Vote

Image: “This bill is more than just a piece of legislation.” – Kenneth Bryan, Cayman Islands tourism minister. (Photo by Brian Major)

by Brian Major
Last updated: 12:20 PM ET, Wed February 5, 2025

Cayman Islands voters will decide this spring if the territory should build a fixed pier to accommodate ever-larger cruise ships following a February 3 legislative session. Lawmakers backed a spring referendum that will ask residents to determine the Caribbean nation’s future cruise profile after a lengthy debate.

The cruise referendum “looks likely to be approved” to appear on voters’ ballots during the country’s April 30 general election, according to a Cayman Compass news report.

The ballot will also ask Cayman voters if the country should establish a national lottery and whether cannabis should be decriminalized.

Proponents of the cruise referendum endured some tense days leading up to this week’s session. Although supported by Cayman tourism minister Keneth Bryan and other government officials, the recent resignation of four lawmakers in a political rift tied in part to the referendum threatened its likelihood of appearing on this spring’s general election ballot.

However, Joseph Hew, legislative leader of the country’s official opposition, said Monday “We have agreed to support the referendum.” The move effectively gives the minority government enough votes to pass the bill when the parliament meets again. The next meeting is scheduled for February 12.

“This bill is more than just a piece of legislation,” said Bryan in a statement following the February 3 parliamentary session. “It is a promise to our people that their voices are valued in guiding future decisions.”

The cruise referendum represents “a major step toward aligning Cayman’s cruise berthing infrastructure with modern standards,” said Ellio Solomon, executive program manager for pro-referendum organization the Association for Cruise Tourism (ACT).

“We are proud that our efforts have ensured the voices of Caymanians will be heard on this critical issue,” he said.

In the weeks leading to the election, ACT will sponsor “public education initiatives” and town hall meetings, to mobilize supporters “to secure a ‘yes’ vote in the referendum, Solomon said.

“ACT will continue to push for transparency, education and dialogue to ensure the best possible outcome for all Caymanians,” he said.

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