The dearth of aircraft servicing the country has been deemed a major stumbling block to the expansion of Guyana's tourist industry.

"A lot of foreigners put off coming here because they are uncertain of securing a return flight to get them back to their jobs on time," Joanne Jardim, proprietress of Shanklands Tourist Resort explained at a press conference on Wednesday to announce the addition of a new 36-seater aluminium boat as part of the services currently being offered at the retreat.

Jardim, who co-owns the retreat with her husband, Max Jardim, added that international flights offered locally were unreliable, and the range of routes covered by the existing airlines was limited.

Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism, Sonia Roopnauth, responded that government had recognised this shortcoming and had every intention of dealing with it. Roopnauth expressed the hope that the recent introduction of Universal Airlines Inc would at least help to ease the problem. The new airline established an office in Guyana last month and launched its inaugural flight to New York on Wednesday.

The government is currently focusing on developing the information technology and tourism industries, the PS stated, adding that cabinet was also examining the possibility of duty-free concessions for the importation of heavy-duty equipment to enhance local facilities in the tourist sector.

Meanwhile, the purchase of the US$13,687 boat from Brazil represents an effort by the Jardims to improve services for the Guyanese customer. The boat was brought to Guyana via the overland trail linking the two countries and described by Mr Jardim as "eventful and challenging," at a cost of US$1,700.

Shanklands Manager, Bernard Lee Yong, told the media that foreign customers visiting the resort favoured adventure and therefore were not mindful of taking a boat trip in open wooden boats. However, since the introduction of a boat similar to the new one at Whitewater Tours, a tourist competitor, local citizens have expressed preference for that type of boat trip. Lee Yong emphasised that Shanklands aimed at promoting affordability at the domestic level and noted that the resort provides several options for all clients.

Lee Yong described the purchase as an economical and sensible one, particularly since a fibre-glass boat available in New York would have cost US $35,000 and lacked the performance capacity of the boat purchased in Brazil. Further, transportation expenses could likely have amounted to about US $3,500.

Two 200 Marina outboard engines comprise the final touch to be added to the boat which will then be ready for work.

Through a new deal, tours will be booked from Guyana to Brazil and vice versa. Brochures detailing the various packages will be available soon, Lee Yong stated. Shanklands also has a summer camp programme and Mr Jardim stressed the need to educate young minds about tourism. The Jardims have been in the tourism sector for over ten years.

Also in attendance at the press conference were Jillian Ross, investment officer at the Guyana Office for Investment (Go-Invest); Tessa Fraser, Director of Tourism at the ministry; Maureen Paul, her assistant; and staff of the resort.