Event Tourism Needs Stronger Infrastructure, Grange
Opposition leader Damion C. Grange says the British Virgin Islands must shore up infrastructure before expanding event tourism, voicing concerns about roads, healthcare capacity and accommodation. His comments came on ZBVI 780 AM ahead of the inaugural UberSoca Cruise call to Tortola, which brought over 3,000 passengers ashore.
Grange has voiced support for growing event tourism in the British Virgin Islands but warned that critical infrastructure must be in place to manage the risks and pressures such events bring. Grange made the comments during the "Talking Points" programme on ZBVI 780 AM on Monday, November 17, 2025, ahead of the inaugural call of the UberSoca Cruise at Cyril B.
The cruise saw more than 3,000 passengers disembark on Tortola and many joining the J’ouvert Punk Rock edition through the streets of Road Town. "I am in support of Event Tourism, I am in support of the push to diversify the product," Grange said. "I would just hope that we are doing so in a way that we can literally track the progress, make sure the associated risks are minimised as much as possible, and we are doing so in a fiscally responsible way." While acknowledging the economic upside of attracting large events and cruise calls, Grange urged a planned and structured approach to expansion.
He singled out the road network as an example, saying roads must be made as safe as possible to handle higher traffic volumes during events. Grange also raised concerns about the capacity of local healthcare services to respond to mass incidents. Orlando Smith Hospital, he warned: "If at the Dr D.
Orlando Smith Hospital, you have two ambulances and one may conk out before it leaves the parking lot, then you’re probably going to want to reconsider having a number of persons on the ground." Accommodation contingency was another issue Grange said requires attention. "What if something happens while the ship is in port, and these people need to be housed on land?" he asked, stressing the need for planning in case visitors cannot return to their vessels.
Residents and authorities have watched closely as the Territory pursues new tourism products to diversify beyond traditional stayover markets. Large cruise calls and festival-style events can boost local spending and business for hospitality, transport and vendors, but they also place short-term demands on services, emergency response and public safety.
Grange called on government, port authorities, health services and event organisers to establish measurable safeguards, improve coordination and ensure fiscal prudence as event tourism grows. "I would love for things to be done in a more planned or structured approach," he said, underscoring the need to balance opportunity with preparedness.
As the BVI hosts more high-profile calls and events, officials will face pressure to upgrade infrastructure and emergency readiness to protect residents and visitors alike.
Primary source: VINO