In promoting tourism in Guyana during Tourism Awareness Month 2018, the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) is looking at utilising the ferry stellings and some water taxis to provide boat rides along the Demerara River.
Chamber President Halim Khan spoke to Guyana Times on Wednesday, noting the efforts to establish this system. In the coming week, some of the speedboats that are normally used to transport commuters to the Stabroek Ferry Stelling will be marked to indicate they will be providing this new service. Khan revealed that by the end of November, all systems should be in place to open this new service.
“A development which we will have by next week is the speedboats, which will be marked according to the tourism authority of Region Three. We will have markings on these boats so when any tourists come into the country; they can use the boats along the Demerara River. That will be put in place from the week coming,” Khan said.
“There is bird watching at the Harbour Bridge where thousands of birds are always present throughout the river. Persons can also choose to see the city at night. Those who are going in at the mouth of the river can also do so either in the day or
Speedboats at the Vreed-en-Hoop Stelling that will be used for the tourism project
the evening,” he explained, in listing some of the activities the new service will facilitate.
Khan insisted that locals should also take advantage of this opportunity to view Guyana from a different perspective. In the coming weeks, contact numbers for bookings will be made available and additional details will be provided.
“This is for everyone, because we need to start tourism somewhere and we want to make the Region one of the best in terms of tourism, so local persons can surely enjoy that ride because it will bring in revenue.”
The Chamber of Commerce and Industry is looking at its tourism development project, but funding is needed to complete such. The flagship project for the modification of the Vreed-en-Hoop Stelling includes advanced facilities for tourists with the inclusion of a souvenir and artisan centre, food courts and two adjoining boardwalks that will lead to the water-taxi hub.
Tourism Awareness Month this year is themed, “Promoting Sustainability, Celebrating Diversity”, and is aimed at showcasing primarily the natural characteristics of Guyana, while placing emphasis on the adventure and cultural experiences which one can experience during their stay.
