Caribbean in the Spotlight at Seatrade

The Caribbean, anchored in part by the support of the Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA), shone brightly at Seatrade Cruise Global in Miami last week.

The week got off to an energized start with an exciting “Backyard Jam” at FCCA’s headquarters in Miramar, which drew members from the Caribbean tourism and maritime communities. 

This event set the stage for a stimulating panel discussion on Monday, featuring Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) Secretary-General Dona Regis-Prosper, Figen Ayan, President of MedCruise, and Roger Blum, Principal of Cruise and Port Advisors, Inc. as the moderator. The panel, titled “The Value of Regional Collaboration”, highlighted the importance of uniting efforts across destinations to enhance recognition, enrich product delivery, and stimulate business within their geographical areas.

On Tuesday, FCCA CEO Michele Paige moderated the “Caribbean Cruising Spotlight” panel, with participants including Kenneth Bryan, Minister of Tourism and Ports of the Cayman Islands and Chairman of the CTO; Joseph Boschulte, Commissioner of Tourism, U.S. Virgin Islands; Clive McCoy, Director of Tourism, British Virgin Islands; Carlos Mercado Santiago, Executive Director, Puerto Rico Tourism Company; and Alex Gumbs, CEO of Port St. Maarten.

Throughout the conference, numerous private stakeholder meetings took place, aimed at bolstering the cruise sector in the region.

At the conference’s conclusion, the FCCA stated: “The FCCA and FCCA Foundation extend heartfelt thanks to our partners for their participation in another dynamic Seatrade Cruise Global. We look forward to continued meaningful engagement and the opportunity to create a positive impact together in the coming months. Bon voyage!”