THE Ocho Rios Fishing Village — now referred to as the Ultimate Chill Spot — at Sailor Hole, Main Street, Ocho Rios, St Ann, was officially opened last week Thursday at a fun-filled ceremony at the facility that attracted directors, managers and staff of the Port Authority of Jamaica (PAJ), Government and Opposition officials and members of the business community.

According to the PAJ, the beach-side attraction and cultural melting pot features an entertainment area and 18 shops, including bars, lounge, restaurants, cafés and gift shops.

Scores of people at the opening described the new-look facility as world-class, while others admired the architectural design and building, which is expected to be a major pull for both locals and tourists in Ocho Rios.

Professor Gordon Shirley, PAJ president and chief executive officer, said one of the complaints from cruise ships coming into Ocho Rios was that the fishing village was “unsightly”.

The reconstructed fishing village is not only more beautiful, but it now provides a more comfortable environment for fishermen, shop owners and customers.

In addition to the “beautiful” shops, Professor Shirley pointed out that the village has a cold storage facility, a scaling facility, a lounge for fishermen, and restrooms.

He also assured people attending the function that the fishermen and individuals who are occupying the shops at the village are those who were there before the renovation.

According to Orville Grant, president of the Sailor Hole Fishermen Benevolent Society, the new-look fishing village is like a dream come true.

Here are some highlights from the official opening: