I think the cruise ship industry is being short sighted here. First, they demand that islands such as St. Martin improve their infrastructure to accommodate the larger ships. Then, they create and promote their own shore excursion tours. Finally, they take away any reason why a tourist should spend money anywhere but on their ship.

The problem with that is when all the businesses close they will no longer have any reason to visit the various islands. Then what do they do. Keep them at sea for 11 days?