Destination Marketing Manager at Dominica Discover Authority (DDA), Ms. Kimberly King, provided an update on the resumption of ferry services to Dominica. According to her, the DDA is ecstatic for the resumption of ferry services given its contribution to the country’s economy.

Furthermore, King expressed, “Historically, the ferry service in the French Antilles has been very important to Dominica where we’ve seen social connections, trade, tourism etc. With ferry access, it means that we have the ability to rebound in our numbers as it pertains to tourism.”

Moreover, King noted that this is being done on a phase basis and will be monitored closely by the Ministry of Tourism and the health officials on island. Additionally, she reiterated the approved protocols for entering Dominica, which include a negative PCR test taken up to 72 hours prior to arrival, a health notification of approval upon completion of the health screening questionnaire and a vaccine certificate where applicable.

She added, “Upon arrival, vaccinated travelers will undergo an antigen test and if negative, will be medically cleared. For those who are non-vaccinated, the procedure is somewhat similar however, they must present a safe in nature confirmation.”

King encouraged persons to get vaccinated and to work closely with the Ministry of Health in increasing the vaccinated numbers. At current, 54% of the target population took at least one dose of the vaccine while 50% of the target population are now fully vaccinated. While she notes that this is great news, she believes that the number of vaccinated persons should continue to increase, surpassing the current 50%.

Moreover, the Ministry of Health and the DDA continues to stress that persons should adhere to the necessary protocols in order to win the fight against Covid-19. By no means is this a fight for the authorities only. Everyone has to do their parts in an effort in bringing life closer to normal.