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 .
