CASTRIES, St. Lucia – A new home port initiative is expected to increase tourist arrivals in St. Lucia between November and March.

P&O Cruise Lines has selected the island to be its home port destination as part of a seven-night cruise program.

The cruise ship Britannia will sail from Southampton, U.K., to St. Lucia to begin St. Lucia cruises on Nov. 12. The cruise line will embark on a total of 28 voyages from St. Lucia that will conclude on March 4, 2017.

P&O Marketing Director Christopher Edgington said St. Lucia is a highly sought-after vacation destination.

“Introducing new itineraries that all depart or return to St. Lucia will offer a new dimension to our Caribbean cruises,” he explained.

“St. Lucia is a popular destination with passengers and no other cruise line has it as a homeport, so we are looking to make the most of this by offering an exciting range of shore excursions to maximize the time there.”

Prime Minister Dr. Kenny D. Anthony said the home port initiative is a great opportunity that comes at a time when the regional tourism product is becoming increasingly competitive.

“It is indeed pleasing that P&O has selected St. Lucia as its home port for Caribbean cruises,” he said.

“We have to make this experience truly special for the crew of this ship and its passengers. This is really a great opportunity for us.”

The home port initiative serves as part of a seven night fly / cruise program.

The maiden cruise from port Castries will call at Dominica, Antigua, St. Maarten, and Barbados.