OCHO RIOS, St Ann — Official industry figures show a 21 per cent increase in cruise ship arrivals in this resort town this winter season, compared to last year’s.

Based on figures supplied by the Jamaica Tourist Board’s (JTB’s) Ocho Rios office, during the period December 2002 to February 2003, cruise ships made 108 calls to Ocho Rios, with a total of 229,134 passengers, compared to 86 calls and 180,268 passengers from December 2001 to February 2002.

The JTB has, in part, attributed the increased numbers to its marketing strategy plus the town’s position as a preferred port of call for cruise liners.

Most vessels calling in Ocho Rios originate from Miami, Florida and usually dock for eight hours before heading out for another Caribbean port.

However, some store operators have reported a downturn in business.

“Business is definitely less than last year,” said one in-bond merchant who requested anonymity.

According to the store owner, arrival figures supplied by the Jamaica Tourist Board reflect the number of passengers on a docked vessel and not necessarily the amount disembarking.

“More visitors yes, but how many are disembarking?” he asked. “People are spending less and there are lots of other businesses now than last year, so our piece of the pie becomes smaller. In fact, I think business is down by about 20 per cent,” he told the Observer.

But not everyone is complaining.

“I cannot complain,” said Marilyn Burrows, manager at Dolphin Cove, one of Ocho Rios’ newest attraction.

She said her company has seen a marked increase in business this winter season.

“Times are changing and (the tourist) are coming more and more for an experience, so attractions are becoming their preferred choice nowadays,” she explained.

Dolphin Cove is fully booked for the rest of the winter tourist season.

In-bond merchant Jagdesh Thakurani of Colors in-bond store proffered a remedy for what he sees as a slump in business.

“We need to advertise shopping in Jamaica. The tourist board advertises beach and sun and attractions but they need to advertise shopping, not just in-bond, but shopping overall, in Jamaica. Shopping should be part of the advertising packages, especially in the TV ads,” he said, adding that he had suggested this to the JTB and the idea was given a nod of approval.