A fact-finding cruise to Bermuda taken by the tourism minister last month has cost taxpayers nearly $3,900.

Zane DeSilva travelled on board Royal Caribbean vessel Anthem of the Seas from August 24 to 29 at a cost of $3,888.41.

He explained last night that the “mystery shopper” venture included a public bus ride to Horseshoe Bay, touring Hamilton and St George’s, as well as visiting local stores.

Details of the trip — described as “cruise passenger experience observation” — were posted to the Travel Calendar page of the Government’s website.

Mr DeSilva said last night: “As Minister of Tourism and Transport, part of my responsibility is to ensure that the Bermuda brand delivers a first-rate experience for our visitors and that local goods and services have equal opportunity to be promoted to our visitors.

“In an effort to obtain knowledge of what information is communicated about Bermuda to our visitors, the Ministry of Tourism and Transport recently organised a mystery-shopper cruise from New Jersey to Bermuda.

“As a participant, I experienced first-hand what cruise lines and passengers say or advise about Bermuda, prior to arrival.

“It was also an opportunity to understand what it is like for visitors, when two ships, with over 6,000 passengers combined, are in the Royal Naval Dockyard and everyone is trying to obtain transportation around the island.

“My experience included shopping at local shops and riding with visitors on the public bus to Horseshoe Bay and experiencing the beach’s amenities.

“I also took a taxi to visit Crystal Caves, Tobacco Bay and toured Hamilton and St George’s.”

He added: “Ultimately, the assessment provided invaluable information that will allow my ministry to understand from a visitor’s and cruise line’s perspective what we are doing well and where improvements are needed.

“I intend on giving a ministerial statement on my experience and findings in the near future.”

The trip summary online said that Mr DeSilva “monitored the way Bermuda is presented to cruise passengers, including ... recommendations for attractions, shopping and tours”.

It added: “Upon disembarking in Bermuda, the minister also experienced, as a tourist, what passengers encounter with regard to transport options available around Bermuda.

“His mission was to get to Horseshoe Bay Beach, Crystal Caves, the City of Hamilton, the Town of St George and Tobacco Bay by using public bus and ferry services along with private taxis.”

The summary said that the insights gained from the trip “will be used to shape future cruise ship and transport policy”.

A breakdown of the total trip bill was also provided.

Air travel was listed at $595.30, while ground transportation costs totalled $292.84. Accommodation was $3,000.27.