BVI ports chief secures cruise line commitments at Caribbean industry summit

The British Virgin Islands Ports Authority returned from a week of talks at the 32nd Annual Florida Caribbean Cruise Association conference in Puerto Rico, where it worked to strengthen ties with the cruise industry and secure pledges for future collaboration.

The gathering, held from October 12 to 16 in San Juan, brought together government officials, port leaders and cruise executives. The BVI delegation included Dion A. Stoutt, Chairperson of the BVIPA Board; Annette Collins, Deputy Chairperson; Dean B. Fahie, Acting Managing Director; and Alicia Green, Marketing Manager. The party also comprised Elvia Smith-Maduro, Permanent Secretary; Sharlene Smith, Assistant Secretary (Ministry of Communications and Works); Sasha D.A. Flax, Assistant Secretary (Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sustainable Development); Dr Cassander P. Titley-O'Neal, Director of National Parks Trust; Vance M. Lewis, CEO of Cyril B. Romney Tortola Pier Park; and representatives from Romasco, Island Shipping and That's the Spirit.

Honourable Kye M. Rymer, Minister for Communications and Works, opened a workshop titled "Homeporting: The Gateway to the Caribbean". Honourable Luce D. Hodge-Smith, Junior Minister for Tourism and Culture, addressed ministerial sessions on Caribbean destinations.

During the conference, the delegation held talks with Carnival Cruise Line, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, Princess Cruises and Carnival Corporation on topics including port infrastructure, visitor experiences, scheduling and the possibility of increased port visits. The BVI team secured commitments to pursue training for local vendors and tour operators, explore ways to boost cruise calls, and maintain contact with the FCCA.

BVIPA Chairperson Dion A. Stoutt said the delegation's work was "about more than maintaining industry relationships. It is about ensuring that the British Virgin Islands remains part of the conversations that influence cruise deployment, port development and destination growth."

The Ports Authority said it would follow up through coordinated action with government agencies, cruise operators and local tourism partners. Officials stressed that linking port investment with quality shore experiences and keeping itinerary planners informed would shape the next phase of engagement. The authority noted that cruise tourism benefits must extend beyond the docks to reach entrepreneurs, attractions and communities across the Territory.