The British Virgin Islands (BVI) is being strongly represented at the 30th Annual Florida Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA) Cruise Conference and Tradeshow, with a delegation led by Minister for Communications and Works, Hon. Kye Rymer.
The event, scheduled to take place from October 22 to 25 in St. Maarten, presents a valuable opportunity for the BVI to engage directly with key cruise industry executives and decision-makers.
In a statement made in the House of Assembly on Friday, October 18, Minister Rymer emphasized the importance of cruise tourism to the Virgin Islands’ economy.
“Cruise tourism generates significant revenue, supports local employment, and fuels various businesses across the territory,” Rymer explained.
He noted that the BVI delegation, which includes representatives from the Ministry of Communications and Works, the BVI Ports Authority, Cyril B. Romney Tortola Pier Park, the BVI Tourist Board, the National Parks Trust, and local cruise agents, will work to strengthen relationships with cruise executives and explore ways to enhance the visitor experience in the BVI.
At the conference, Rymer will personally present an update on the BVI to cruise line presidents and CEOs, focusing on the Territory’s progress and potential areas for collaboration.
“This is a unique opportunity to ensure that the BVI remains top-of-mind when decisions are made about cruise itineraries and investments in the region,” he said.
A key highlight of the conference will be the presentation of a preliminary study conducted by Business Research & Economic Advisors (BREA) on the economic contribution of cruise tourism to the Caribbean, including the BVI. According to the study, the BVI welcomed 821,990 cruise passengers during the 2023/2024 season, with approximately 83%, or 685,540 passengers, disembarking to explore the islands. This activity generated an estimated $85 million in revenue for the territory.
The study also highlighted a shift in the demographics of cruise visitors, with the average age of passengers dropping from 58 years in 2018 to 51 years today. This trend mirrors the growing appeal of cruise travel to younger generations, prompting the need for the BVI to adapt its services and offerings to meet their expectations.
Minister Rymer acknowledged the positive feedback received in areas such as guest satisfaction, tour guide professionalism, and the friendliness of residents. However, he also addressed concerns regarding declining ratings in transportation services, particularly road infrastructure, and the likelihood of visitors recommending the BVI as a destination.
“These areas require our collective attention,” he said, emphasizing the need to continue enhancing the visitor experience.
In conclusion, Minister Rymer reaffirmed the critical role of the cruise tourism sector in the BVI’s economy and underscored the significance of the upcoming FCCA conference.
“Our participation is essential to ensuring that we continue to thrive in this ever-evolving industry,” Rymer said, adding that he looks forward to reporting on the outcomes of the conference upon his return.