POINTE BLANCHE--Serenade of the Seas is expected to be the first cruise ship in port on Friday after the cancellations caused by the passing of Hurricane Earl and Tropical Storm Fiona.

Ship Captain Michel Claveau contacted St. Maarten Harbour Group of Companies expressing eagerness to visit the island on Friday. "If there's not too much damage we definitely want to dock on Friday. Any restrictions?" The captain wrote in an e-mail.

Harbour officials are working to make the cruise pier accessible for the cruise ship as they see the arrival of a ship a morale booster for the hurricane weary island.

The only restriction so far to the ship's arrival is some of the steel at the expansion joints on the smaller cruise pier was lifted by the waves. That problem is being addressed.

The new mega-cruise ship pier is in good condition and Serenade can berth there on Friday. On that pier some of the dock boxes with outlets were damaged. Repairs will be carried out soon.

Aside from the minor structural damage, an underwater survey between the old and new piers as well as the approach will be carried out in advance of the ship's arrival to ensure all is clear for use of the Eastern side of new pier.

Philipsburg in particular needs to be cleaned up and ready to receive cruise passengers, according to harbour officials.

"St. Maarten has built a reputation as a premier cruise destination and the cruise lines are eager to be back in port. Passengers and crew look forward to visiting, shopping and experiencing our island. It's up to us to be ready to welcome them with an island that looks untouched by hurricane and show that no matter what St. Maarten is alive and kicking," Harbour Group CEO Mark Mingo said.