Boosting Caribbean cruise tourism: Antigua and Saint Lucia host Cruise Connect Conferences, What you need to know more?

Tuesday, January 21, 2025

Global Ports Holding (GPH), the world’s largest cruise port operator, hosted two pivotal Cruise Connect Conferences in the Eastern Caribbean as part of its stakeholder engagement strategy.

The conferences aimed to bolster local cruise tourism and foster collaborative efforts among key industry players. Held on October 1 in Antigua and October 3 in Saint Lucia, the events brought together tourism ministers, port management, and other critical stakeholders.

Antigua: Vision for Growth as a Leading Cruise Destination
The inaugural Cruise Connect Conference in Antigua featured keynote addresses from Hon. H. Charles ‘Max’ Fernandez, Minister of Tourism, and Colin C. James, CEO of the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority.

Both leaders outlined a bold vision to position Antigua as a premier cruise destination.

Discussions highlighted innovative strategies to enhance the visitor experience and the economic benefits of cruise tourism.

A key session addressed GPH’s plans for regional expansion, spotlighting Antigua’s role as a gateway to the Eastern Caribbean.

Gasper P George, General Manager of Antigua Cruise Port, revealed projections for a 58% increase in passenger arrivals during the 2024-2025 season, emphasizing the importance of creating unforgettable experiences for visitors while maximizing benefits for local communities. “This is only the beginning,” George remarked, underscoring the region’s growth potential.

Saint Lucia: Strategies for Tourism Growth and Infrastructure Development
The Saint Lucia Cruise Connect Conference focused on the island’s flourishing tourism industry and its integration with the cruise sector.

Hon. Dr. Ernest Hilaire, Minister of Tourism, reiterated the government’s dedication to cruise tourism as a key driver of economic growth. He emphasized the strategic importance of enhancing infrastructure and managing high-traffic days to ensure a seamless experience for visitors.

Lancelot Arnold, General Manager of Saint Lucia Cruise Port, provided insights into global cruise trends and shared upcoming plans for infrastructure upgrades.

The port team reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening Saint Lucia’s reputation as a sought-after cruise destination in the Caribbean.

Collaboration for Regional Cruise Tourism Success
Both conferences highlighted GPH’s ongoing efforts to collaborate with stakeholders across the Caribbean. By fostering open dialogue and aligning strategies, the events emphasized a shared commitment to elevating the region’s appeal in the global cruise market.

From boosting passenger numbers to creating sustainable, community-focused benefits, GPH aims to contribute significantly to the long-term development of the Eastern Caribbean cruise sector.

These events also align with the priorities outlined in government tourism strategies, such as the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Plan and Saint Lucia’s Sustainable Tourism Policy.

Such collaborations ensure that cruise tourism continues to generate economic opportunities while preserving the cultural and environmental assets of these islands.