Is Grand Turk Still Closed to Cruise Ships?

By Michael Ferguson

If you’re planning a cruise to the Caribbean, you may have heard that Grand Turk is closed to cruise ships. The island, which is part of the Turks and Caicos Islands, has been a popular port of call for many cruise lines. However, recent events have led to confusion about whether or not it is currently open.

What Happened?

In 2017, Grand Turk was hit hard by Hurricane Irma. The Category 5 storm caused significant damage to the island’s infrastructure, including its cruise port. Despite efforts to rebuild and repair, the port has remained closed to most cruise ships since then.

Is Grand Turk Still Closed?

As of August 2021, Grand Turk remains closed to most cruise ships. However, there are some exceptions. According to the Turks and Caicos Islands Tourist Board, small ships (with a capacity of 100 passengers or less) are allowed to dock at the island’s port.

What About Larger Ships?

For larger ships, there is no current timeline for when Grand Turk will reopen as a port of call. Some reports suggest that it could be several years before the necessary repairs are completed.

What Can You Do Instead?

If your cruise itinerary included a stop at Grand Turk but has since been changed due to the port closure, don’t worry – there are plenty of other Caribbean destinations worth exploring. Consider adding stops in nearby islands like Puerto Rico or St. Maarten.

The Bottom Line

While it’s true that Grand Turk is currently closed to most cruise ships, it’s important to keep in mind that this could change in the future as repairs continue. In the meantime, consider alternative destinations for your next Caribbean vacation and stay up-to-date on any updates regarding the status of Grand Turk’s port.