Jamaica’s Martha Brae River Rafting Set to Welcome Visitors Again
Experience the magic of Martha Brae River Rafting once more! Operators are targeting a December 15, 2025, reopening for this beloved attraction. This date aligns perfectly with the beginning of Jamaica’s peak tourism season, offering a much-needed boost after the closure caused by Hurricane Melissa. The storm brought significant damage across the island, impacting many cherished destinations.
Hurricane Melissa’s Devastating Impact on Jamaica
Hurricane Melissa struck Jamaica with Category 5 force in late October 2025, unleashing destructive winds and torrential rainfall. The widespread damage affected numerous communities, with Trelawny parish bearing the brunt of the storm. Roads and essential infrastructure sustained major damage, and countless homes and businesses were impacted, leading to billions in damages. Jamaica’s vital tourism industry, a cornerstone of its economy contributing roughly 30% of the GDP, faced a severe setback. Thousands experienced power outages, and telecommunication services were disrupted, resulting in significant economic losses for the nation.
Martha Brae River Recovery Efforts and Rafting Operations
The Martha Brae River itself was not spared, with trees and debris clogging its waters and damaging riverbanks. However, immediate clearing operations began swiftly. Johnny Gourzong, operator of Rafting on the Martha Brae through River Raft Limited, and his dedicated team worked tirelessly to remove fallen trees and logs. This essential work ensures safe passage for the iconic rafts, allowing Martha Brae River Rafting to resume. Fortunately, the structural integrity of the main facilities, including the restaurant and bar, remained intact, requiring only minor repairs. The primary focus was on restoring the river for safe and enjoyable rafting experiences.
Resumption of Martha Brae River Rafting Aligns with Peak Tourism Season
The planned reopening date for Martha Brae River Rafting is strategically crucial, marking the commencement of Jamaica’s high tourism season, which typically runs from mid-December through April. Cruise tourism, a lifeline for the region, is seeing renewed activity as Falmouth port has resumed operations. This resumption offers a glimmer of hope for economic recovery and signifies a positive step forward for Trelawny. The livelihoods of many local workers and vendors are directly dependent on the successful operation of this popular attraction, making its reopening a vital economic event.
Broader Tourism Landscape and Outlook for Jamaica
Jamaica’s Minister of Tourism, Edmund Bartlett, has expressed strong optimism, stating the island would be “back in business” by December 15. While this date was an ambitious goal for the entire industry, with some hotels suffering extensive damage and not expected to reopen until 2026, approximately 80% of hotels are anticipated to be operational by the end of January 2026. Ocho Rios and Negril experienced less severe damage compared to western areas, though Montego Bay, a major tourism hub, faced considerable challenges.
Challenges for Other Attractions in Trelawny
The recovery is not uniform across all attractions. Jamaica Swamp Safari, a popular wildlife sanctuary, also suffered severe damage and requires extensive rebuilding. Johnny Gourzong confirmed that “everything” was destroyed at the safari, suggesting it may necessitate a complete redesign. This loss significantly impacts Trelawny’s diverse tourism offerings and creates a void in visitor experiences. Efforts are underway to restore bird populations, and thankfully, the crocodiles remain safe within their concrete enclosures.
Resilience and Future Hope for Martha Brae River Rafting
The news of Martha Brae River Rafting‘s reopening is a significant positive development, powerfully demonstrating Jamaica’s resilience in the face of the hurricane’s devastation. Tourism officials are encouraging visitors to return, emphasizing that much of the island remains intact and ready to welcome them. Supporting Jamaica means visiting the island and experiencing its enduring beauty and spirit. Local news outlets have highlighted the strong community spirit as people work together to rebuild, fueling the recovery process. The return of Martha Brae River Rafting serves as a vital symbol of normalcy and promises renewed livelihoods for many.
Conclusion
The Martha Brae River is poised to welcome visitors once again, with the December 15 reopening of Martha Brae River Rafting offering a welcome sign of resilience and a return to normalcy. The local community eagerly anticipates renewed activity, and visitors can once again experience this iconic Jamaican gem. Jamaica continues its determined path toward full recovery, with the reopening of this cherished attraction marking a significant milestone.