Crossroads Boat Ride founders recognized

The growth and development of the Vincy Mas Brand has not been limited to the efforts of the central organizing body, the Carnival Development Corporation (CDC), and activities of the three components of music, mas and pan; it also encompasses the extended initiatives of private promoters as well.

The Crossroads group launched their Carnival Sunday Boat Ride to Bequia, catering for 300 or so passengers, just over 20 years ago, and committed since then to have it as an annual fixture on the Vincy Mas calendar of events.

Over the years it has provided an opportunity to a more mature patronage of returning nationals and visitors, in for the Carnival season, to visit the Grenadine island, while being entertained on the boat, to and from the island, and at a beach bar and restaurant on island.

Based on the number of repeat patrons, particularly from the USA and Canada, as well as the Caribbean countries of Barbados, Trinidad and Tobago, Grenada and St. Lucia, one can conclude that it is an important component of the Carnival festival and adds to the wider offerings of Vincy Mas.

It was for this reason that Vernon Ramdas and his group Dass One- 2- Go T&T travellers from Trinidad and Tobago chose to recognize one of the founders of the Crossroads Boat Ride Cecil McKie, during the ride to Bequia on Sunday, July 8.

McKie, who is now this country’s Minister of Tourism, Sports and Culture, was on board to receive the plaque.

Crossroads has indicated that they intend to keep the ride going, recognizing its importance to the Vincy Mas menu.