I was on the Royal Clipper cruise when Miss Nilssen was murdered. I am very glad to hear Star Clippers has dropped the Antigua stop from their itinerary. I would be very disappointed in the Company if they had done anything less. There appears to be a growing drug problem (culture) on this island. If you want to get someone's attention, you have to hit them hard in their wallet. Carnival has dropped 80% of their Antigua port calls effective the 1st of January. I hope the other big cruise lines will follow Star Clipper and Carnival's lead.

Nina was neither foolish or inexperienced. She was accosted and murdered. Her family was celebrating a wedding cruise. They are all avid travelers and very aware of their surroundings. Unfortunately, one person took a perfect cruise and turned it into a nightmare for the family. Star Clippers immediately came to the aid of the family and notified me,(travel agent for the family) As horrendous as this was, it does not mean travel to this island or any other island is a bad idea--we need to educate our client to be aware, to be cautious and always consider their safety before exploring anywhere, whether it be in the USA or a foreign port. I hope you will keep the family in your prayers. They celebrated Nina's life on Saturday and where informed of the arrest on Sunday.

Hopefully Star Clippers will reconsider their decission as this was an isolated incident and a suspect has confessed. He is not a native Antiguan. While avoiding destinations after an incindent occurs, sends a clear message that travelers and providers of travel have little tolerence for crime, the punishment is severe and unjust to the those that depend on tourisum and had nothing to do with the incident. While Star Clippers may want to do something in resposne, there is nothing to prevent another incident at alternate ports of call. It is akin to putting on a rain gear, 20 minutes into a downpour, the actions are too late. // Several readers have questions about the incident. There is a series of at least 6 articles related this incident on TW. Do a search for Antigua in the search box near the top right and read the articles in sequence, starting on Jan 22.

I was in Antiqua with Star Clippers about 5 years ago. It was an inhospitable place then, except for those directly in the travel industry. Working class bars on the waterfront were hostile to any white person who entered. I would like to know more details of what happened.

Nevis will be an excellent move for Star Clipper and their guests. There are plenty of fun beach bars and a much safer island. Antigua has been a rough place for years and there are many islands to choose from in the Caribbean. The people of Nevis welcome tourists and enjoy showing tourists their Island.