The Caribbean is set to get a major boost in regional connectivity as a new ferry service linking Guyana, Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados, and other CARICOM member states moves closer to reality. The initiative, part of the broader vision of the CARICOM Founding Fathers-Prime Minister Errol Barrow (Barbados), Prime Minister Forbes Burnham (Guyana), Prime Minister Michael Manley (Jamaica), and Prime Minister Eric Williams (Trinidad and Tobago)- to facilitate the free movement of people, gained fresh momentum in 2023, as city leaders across the region committed to enhancing socioeconomic integration.
The regional ferry network is expected to dramatically reduce travel costs between Caribbean nations, with ticket prices projected to remain under US $100. By making transportation more affordable, the initiative aims to expand trade, boost tourism, and strengthen cultural and economic ties among member states. Proponents also highlight its potential to improve food security and passenger traffic across the region.
In a historic move, Caribbean city leaders gathered in Buenos Aires on October 21, 2022, on the eve of the C40 World Mayors Summit, signing a joint resolution to build a more connected Caribbean community. The meeting included representatives from Port of Spain and San Fernando (Trinidad and Tobago), Georgetown (Guyana), Kingston (Jamaica), Santo Domingo (Dominican Republic), and San Pedro Town (Belize).
The leaders acknowledged the Caribbeanโs shared geography, culture, and climate-related challenges, agreeing that meaningful cooperation is critical for the regionโs growth. The resolution outlined a two-pronged plan:
- Community of Caribbean Cities โ An official network where city leaders will meet annually to coordinate development initiatives, with the goal of inaugurating the Community in early 2023.
- Regional Ferry Network โ Affordable ferry connections between participating cities to facilitate travel for residents and visitors, enhancing trade, tourism, and cultural exchange.
City leaders pledged to present the resolution to their respective city councils and encourage other Caribbean municipalities to join the initiative, marking a significant step toward a more integrated Caribbean.
The resolution was signed by:
- Mr. Joel Martรญnez, Mayor of Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago
- Mr. Ubraj Narine, Mayor of Georgetown, Guyana
- Mr. Wally Nรบรฑez, Mayor of San Pedro Town, Belize
- Mr. Junia Regrello, Mayor of San Fernando, Trinidad and Tobago
- Mr. Winston Ennis, Deputy Mayor of Kingston, Jamaica
- Mr. Jesรบs DโAlessandro, Technical Secretary, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
Speaking on the agreement, then Georgetown Mayor Pt. Ubraj Narine said the partnership marks โa new era of cooperation, where Caribbean cities not only share ideas but take collective action for the benefit of our people.โ
The Galleons Passage vessel, that operates under the flag of Trinidad and Tobago, is expected to provide services.ย
