CLICK HERE TO JOIN OUR WHAT’S APP GROUP
PM Browne: Antigua’s Cruise Industry Set to Become the OECS Leader
Prime Minister Gaston Browne has reaffirmed his government’s commitment to making Antigua and Barbuda the leading cruise tourism destination in the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS). Speaking on recent developments in the cruise sector, Browne expressed confidence that Antigua will surpass regional competitors, backed by major investments in port infrastructure and tourism-related businesses.
“We are making the necessary investments to ensure that Antigua becomes the number one cruise tourism destination within the OECS,” Browne said.
The government has partnered with Global Ports Holding to expand and modernize the cruise terminal at Heritage Quay, as well as develop new upland attractions for visitors. Browne noted that these improvements will not only increase passenger arrivals but also enhance the overall visitor experience, leading to higher local spending.
“The investments we have made—especially in expanding the cruise terminal and ensuring that we have the right amenities—will solidify our position as the leading cruise destination in the region,” he said.
Browne highlighted the government’s success in securing agreements with major cruise lines, ensuring that Antigua remains a staple in regional cruise itineraries. He also pointed to the increasing trend of home porting, where Antigua serves as the embarkation and disembarkation point for cruise passengers.
“This is a game changer for us. The more cruise passengers we homeport, the greater the economic benefits for our people. More passengers staying overnight, more jobs, and more business for our taxi drivers, hotels, and restaurants.”
The Prime Minister noted that while other OECS nations are also investing in cruise tourism, Antigua and Barbuda is positioning itself to lead through a combination of superior port facilities, diverse tour offerings, and expanded commercial opportunities for local vendors.
“I have no doubt that within the next few years, we will be the undisputed leader in cruise tourism within the OECS,” he said.
He emphasized that the long-term goal is to reach two million cruise passengers annually. “We are well on our way to achieving that target,” Browne stated, noting that record-breaking arrivals this season signal strong growth prospects.
With continued investment in new attractions, improved infrastructure, and strengthened relationships with cruise operators, Antigua is set to rise as a dominant force in Caribbean cruise tourism.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN OUR WHAT’S APP GROUP
CLICK HERE TO JOIN OUR WHAT’S APP GROUP
CLICK HERE TO JOIN OUR WHAT’S APP GROUP
CLICK HERE TO JOIN OUR WHAT’S APP GROUP
CLICK HERE TO JOIN OUR WHAT’S APP GROUP
Advertise with the mоѕt vіѕіtеd nеwѕ ѕіtе іn Antigua!
We offer fully customizable and flexible digital marketing packages.
Contact us at [email protected]
If Antigua really want to lead, we need to ensure the small vendors and taxi drivers making money too.
Becoming a leader means improving infrastructure and service. Hope we ready for that challenge.
If we want to be #1, we need to step up marketing, improve service, and offer more cultural experiences.
Sounds good, but the real question is—what’s in it for the average Antiguan?
Antigua definitely has the best port in the OECS now, but we need more activities to keep visitors spending.
Sound promising, but we need to make sure the country benefits, not just a few big players.