Tourism Stakeholders Urged to Raise Standards as Antigua Charts Future Cruise Growth

Tourism Minister Charles Fernandez has called on all stakeholders in Antigua and Barbuda’s tourism industry to embrace higher standards of professionalism and service excellence as the country seeks to strengthen its position as a leading cruise destination in the Caribbean.

Fernandez made these remarks at the 2025/2026 Cruise Season Review Workshop, which was held at Dennis Beach Bar Restaurant and Conference Centre on Thursday, June 11, 2026, bringing together key tourism stakeholders to review the recently concluded cruise season and discuss the future of Antigua and Barbuda’s cruise tourism sector.

Addressing participants, Fernandez stressed that the success of the cruise sector depends on the collective efforts of everyone involved in delivering the visitor experience.

“The success of the cruise industry does not rest with any one organization,” he said. “It is the result of the collective efforts of government agencies, Antigua Cruise Port, taxi operators, retailers, vendors, tour operators, excursion partners, security personnel, port workers and countless others who work tirelessly to ensure every visitor leaves our shores with a positive impression.”

The minister noted that while many destinations boast beautiful beaches, Antigua and Barbuda’s greatest competitive advantage remains its people and the quality of service they provide.

“There are countries with beaches almost as nice as Antigua’s, but what sets us apart is our people. We are more welcoming and we provide a better experience,” he said.

Fernandez praised Antigua Cruise Port and its parent company, Global Ports Holding, for their role in transforming the country’s cruise tourism product through investment, expertise and international partnerships.

He pointed to Antigua and Barbuda’s growing influence in the regional cruise industry, noting that other Caribbean destinations are now following a similar model.

He referenced a recent agreement between the Government of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and Global Ports Holding for the future development and operation of Kingstown Cruise Port.

The minister also underscored the importance of continuous training and capacity building, warning that increasing competition among destinations means Antigua and Barbuda cannot afford to become complacent.

“Excellence is no longer optional; it is essential,” Fernandez told stakeholders. “Every taxi driver, vendor, tour guide, government agency and tourism worker must understand the importance of delivering a world-class experience every single day.”

He cited an incident in a neighbouring destination where a dispute between taxi operators and cruise passengers resulted in the loss of thousands of visitors after a cruise line withdrew its business, illustrating how quickly reputational damage can impact an industry.

Fernandez further reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring that tourism growth benefits local people. He revealed that proposals by private investors to introduce large-scale transportation systems for tourists had been rejected to protect opportunities for local taxi operators and transport providers.

“We cannot allow the industry to grow without ensuring that Antiguans and Barbudans benefit from that growth,” he said to loud applause from attendees.

Meanwhile, General Manager of Antigua Cruise Port, Gaspar George, reported another successful cruise season, highlighting significant growth in both cruise calls and passenger arrivals over the past several years.

George said cruise calls increased from 391 during the 2022-2023 season to 455 during the 2025-2026 season, while passenger arrivals climbed to approximately 850,000.

He also pointed to major growth in Antigua’s homeporting business, with passenger numbers more than doubling in recent years. The opening of the fifth berth at Antigua Cruise Port has created new expansion opportunities and attracted additional interest from cruise lines.

The workshop featured a presentation by Colin C. James, CEO of the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority, who discussed emerging trends in the global cruise industry. He highlighted Ishow Speed’s recent visit to Antigua, emphasizing that young people are increasingly seeking authentic cultural experiences.

James said modern travellers are increasingly seeking authentic cultural experiences, culinary tourism, sustainability initiatives and personalized excursions rather than traditional sightseeing activities alone.

“People want to hear our stories, experience our culture and engage with our communities,” he said. “No one can tell Antigua and Barbuda’s story better than Antiguans and Barbudans.”

He also encouraged tourism stakeholders to embrace technology, including digital payment systems, noting that younger travellers increasingly expect seamless cashless transactions and customized experiences.

James identified homeporting as one of the country’s biggest growth opportunities, saying it has the potential to generate increased hotel occupancy, transportation demand, employment and local economic activity.

Also in attendance was Minister of State in the Ministry of Tourism Michael Freeland.

The workshop concluded with interactive discussions aimed at identifying practical solutions to improve visitor experiences, strengthen stakeholder collaboration and ensure Antigua and Barbuda remains among the Caribbean’s most competitive and desirable cruise destinations.