DIFFERENT TREAT FOR TEACHERS FROM ST ANN, ST MARY
OCHO RIOS, St Ann; May 7, 2026
One hundred and fifty teachers from St Ann and St Mary had a top flight Teachers’ Day treat on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, with a Catamaran Cruise of the Ocho Rios Harbour and lunch at sea, courtesy of Sandals and Island Routes.
The teachers were drawn from 49 schools — basic and infant, special education, primary, all-age and high schools, predominantly from the rural areas of the two parishes.
(Sailing and enjoying it with Ocho Rios landmarks in the background)
The event that wowed many teachers was an upgrade of the typical Teachers’ Day treat put on by Sandals Ochi Beach Resort and coordinated by Lyndsay Isaacs, Resort Public Relations Manager.
Standing dockside after the cruise party Mrs Isaacs, who was repeatedly praised and hugged by teachers expressing satisfaction, said she wanted to do something special, going beyond the regular beach party put on in recent years for teachers drawn from St Ann and St Mary.
(Just sharing space and interests)
Several teachers spoken to by the North Coast Times said the event exceeded their expectations, was thoroughly enjoyed, and exciting. Several teachers expressed thanks to the resort team and Island Routes staff on the trip.
The day started under fair conditions, with bright sunshine as they boarded at Sandals Ochi Resort. Before they set sail, and then as they headed out to sea, there was a mix of popular religious songs.
At sea the music and dancing continued and was followed through with popular R&B and Reggae.
Speaking on board, Mrs Isaacs thanked teachers for the job they were doing and the contribution they continued to make in many lives. Her sentiments were echoed by the captain of the Calipsoul Catamaran by Island Routes, Demar Riley
(Drinks anyone)
There was a very active bar and service by staff from the boat. Lunch was served on the lower deck with burgers, vegetables, a variety of meats, salads, and rice and peas.
(Checking the passenger list before boarding)
And the fun is not yet done for the winners of a raffle that was part of the entertainment. They were Andrea Barnes Brown from Apostolic Ark Basic School in Claremont and Karen Cooper, Fort George-Primary & Infant, St Ann; Carlene Thompson, Boscobel Primary & Infant, Kayan Jarrett, Stewart Town Basic, St Mary, among others. Prizes included day passes to Sandals Ochi, dinner for two at Ms T’s Restaurant, along with a variety of wines.
The return journey saw more singing and dancing right back into port.
WATCH AS SOME JOIN IN THE MEDLEY OF RELIGIOUS SONGS:
