Charting the Future of Caribbean Cruising: Collaboration, Innovation, and Growth

Antigua and Saint Lucia: A Joint Initiative for Cruise Sector Advancement

Antigua Cruise Port and Saint Lucia Cruise Port, both integral components of Global Ports Holding, are set to host the second annual Cruise Connect Forum. This key industry gathering is scheduled for September, with the initial segment taking place on September 16th at the Royalton Antigua in Five Islands Village, followed by sessions in Saint Lucia on September 18th.

Exploring the Nexus of Infrastructure, Sustainability, and Market Dynamics

Organizers have highlighted that the forum will serve as a crucial platform for in-depth discussions. These conversations will encompass various critical aspects, including advancements in infrastructure, strategic growth initiatives, pressing sustainability imperatives, and prevailing market trends that are expected to shape the cruise season spanning 2025 and 2026.

Antigua's Comprehensive Agenda: From Keynote to Collaborative Panels

The program in Antigua will commence with a welcoming address by Tourism Minister Charles Fernandez. Subsequently, executives from Antigua Cruise Port will deliver a presentation outlining their projections for the upcoming year, along with anticipated itineraries and opportunities for expansion. The core of the agenda will feature dynamic panel discussions. One such panel, titled “Future-Ready Destination: Realigning Antigua & Barbuda for Cruise Growth,” will bring together the CEO of the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority, executives from Global Ports Holding, and key stakeholders from the local cruise industry. This session will delve into topics such as competitive advantages, port readiness, enhancing the guest experience, and optimizing ground transportation. A second panel, “Sailing in Sync: Partnerships Powering Cruise Success,” will feature GPH Marketing Director Ceylan Erzi, Virgin Voyages' Destination Operations Specialist Richard Diaz, representatives from the Ministry of Tourism, and Gasper George, General Manager of Antigua Cruise Port. This discussion will emphasize regional positioning, the development of public-private partnerships, and sustainable development priorities.

Synergy and Opportunity: The Forum's Broader Impact

The Antigua segment of the event will conclude with a summary of key insights and a focus on collaborative opportunities, followed by a networking luncheon. The Saint Lucia program will mirror this structure, with adjustments to address local priorities. Both conference locations will also feature the Cruise Tourism Partner Expo, providing an invaluable opportunity for tour operators, excursion providers, and entrepreneurs to present their offerings directly to cruise line executives, government officials, and media representatives.

Strengthening Regional Alliances and Showcasing Progress

George emphasized the significance of the forum as a vital opportunity to bolster partnerships and demonstrate the progress achieved in the Eastern Caribbean. He articulated that Cruise Connect 2025 offers a powerful venue to disseminate advancements, align with industry collaborators, and solidify Antigua’s standing as a premier Caribbean cruise destination. He further noted that beyond fostering stronger relationships, this event allows for the showcasing of ongoing efforts in destination development and innovative product enhancements, which are crucial for elevating the visitor experience and positioning both Antigua and Saint Lucia for sustainable growth within the global cruise industry.

Driving Progress Through Collaboration in the Eastern Caribbean

Officials from Global Ports Holding in Saint Lucia underscored the event’s crucial role as a regional catalyst. Lancelot Arnold, Regional Director of GPH Eastern Caribbean and General Manager of Saint Lucia Cruise Port, stated that Cruise Connect 2025 is more than just a forum; it represents a driving force for progress throughout the region. He added that by convening government leaders, cruise executives, and community partners, the event creates a space for charting a collective path forward. Arnold concluded by highlighting that this year’s event will prioritize innovation, sustainability, and the cultivation of stronger synergies to ensure that Antigua, Saint Lucia, and the broader Eastern Caribbean remain competitive, appealing, and resilient destinations for the future of cruise tourism.