Bahrain May Cut Cruise Ship Fees

Bahrain could dramatically slash port fees for cruise vessels to offset massive insurance premiums

Authorities may also reduce other charges to ensure the upcoming cruise season goes ahead in October as ships are due to dock at Khalifa bin Salman Port, sources told the 'Gulf Daily News'.

Earlier, other sources said Bahrain's tourism authorities were hoping to have a full cruise season given the last one was scrapped half way through because of last year's unrest.

Representatives of stakeholders met Culture Ministry officials following revelations that the season could be in jeopardy after insurance companies said they would charge at least $15,000 (BD5,675) extra for every vessel that berths in the country. This would mean each cruise operator could pay as much as $300,000 (BD113,129) extra per season.

"Assuming the premiums are still charged, the special facilities being made available would more than offset the costs," the sources said. "This way, the vessels would end up paying the same as they always did, if not less."

"The government is very serious about the threat we could face without a cruise season," GDM sources added. "All efforts are being made to ensure no such thing happens."