MV Panorama, another traditional service

THE EDITOR: I must say that I had the opportunity of going to Tobago on Carnival Saturday till Tuesday via the MV Panorama. My eight companions and I had bought tourist class tickets. The thing is the tourist class accommodation was bombarded by other passengers who possessed regular tickets. There was no security at the respective entrances to ensure that passengers were seated accordingly. As a matter of fact, the guards were seen only when the ship was leaving and after it reached its destination. A lot of tired vacationers were also tortured by the loud singing and shouting by church groups who decided to grace us with their irritating talents. No consideration was given to the tired passengers, the sea sick passengers and the ones who wanted to grab a nap before heading to work right after the ship docked. No security to assist. Yet they say, “what else do you expect, it’s Trinidad.”

The other serious situation is the lack of air condition, especially in tourist class. When the ship is packed, the odour that arises on those decks is the worst. Everyone is lying all over the deck, beer and food all over the floor and the sweat is deplorable. All that unhealthy air just circulates. Yet they say “that has been happening ever since.” It was the worst experience. Especially for those foreigners. I felt I was on a slave trade ship that was bound for Trinidad. I wonder if they’ll do anything about it or we’ll just have to consider it as another traditional service that the government offers.

D KIDAR
Port-of-Spain