Cruise Line Buys Belize Islands

Overall, Norwegian expects to double the number of passengers on western Caribbean itineraries by 2017.

Norwegian's plans have been controversial in Belize, with environmentalists protesting the impact of the large cruise ships. In June the government rejected the cruise line's proposal to develop Crawl Caye, saying the plan was too large and too close to sensitive environmental areas.

Members of the Placencia chapter of the Belize Tourism Industry Association have aggressively opposed Norwegian's Harvest Caye plans. In a recent interview with the local press, developer and BTIA chapter president Stewart Khron accused the cruise of "green-washing" - trying to make something look environmentally sustainable when it's not.

"I would say what NCL is proposing for Harvest Caye is probably the ultimate 'green-washing,'" Mr. Khron said.

Norwegian repeatedly emphasized the "eco-friendly" elements of the project in its release announcing the sale. Harvest Caye had already been approved for a resort development and air strip, the company notes. And the plan will remove pressure on the limited facilities for cruise ships in Belize City, which is not known as tourist friendly.

In its agreement with the Government of Belize, Norwegian has promised to adhere to the country's environmental standards and create jobs for Belizeans, according to the release. The master plan for the project is still under development, but the company said the facility would use Belize companies and include a "mainland connection point for inland tours."

The company has hired Florida-based IDEA Inc., a veteran of Caribbean destination developments, to design the project.

"This project will set a new standard in the development of an eco-friendly destination," said Hugh Darley, president of IDEA, Inc, in the release. "Rather than an imposed plan, we are focused on a design approach that is determined by the local environment to ensure that the unique surroundings and features of the area will be protected and showcased for all to enjoy."