STEPHON NICHOLAS
GML Tobago Correspondent
Those hoping to participate in Tobago Carnival and worried about getting to the sister isle will soon know their fate, as the Port Authority is expected to announce additional sailings of the Buccoo Reef and T&T Spirit for October and November.
In a media release yesterday, the Authority said an update on both vessels would be provided on Monday (September 21, 2026).
Both fast ferries were not listed in the T&T Inter-Island Ferry Service schedule released on Tuesday, sparking widespread concerns among travellers who have already paid for accommodation, costumes and fete tickets for the October 30 to November 1 festival.
A ferry schedule released on Monday showed only the APT James fast ferry and Golden Carrier cargo boat operating in October. Only a November schedule for the Galleons Passage passenger vessel was released.
THA Secretary for Tourism, Zorisha Hackett, said she is aware of the concerns over the initial schedule. She said she has spoken with Minister of Works and Infrastructure Jearlean John and advocated for more sailings.
The minister, according to Hackett, promised to address the matter.
"I believe effective advocacy means identifying potential challenges early, engaging the relevant authorities and pursuing the interventions necessary in Tobago's interest," Hackett said.
In a release shortly after, the Port Authority, in collaboration with the National Infrastructure Development Company (NIDCO), said it is "ramping up" seabridge capacity for the period.
It said the seabridge capacity for October 1 to November 11 is currently at 101,720 passengers and 32,680 vehicles.
In 2025, close to 22,000 passengers were transported to and from Tobago for the Carnival period on 68 seabridge trips from October 21 to 29, with 22 additional sailings provided.
Just six additional sailings were initially announced for the 2026 Carnival.
