Tourism and Economic Affairs Minister Stuart Johnson and delegation recently returned from Seatrade Cruise Med 2018, the world’s largest cruise industry event focused on the Mediterranean and adjoining seas, held in Portugal.
Port St. Maarten was part of the Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA) Pavilion at the conference. Johnson was “very pleased” to learn about industry trends and developments and “fully intend on making sure our country reaps any opportunity possible within the coming months.” Resumption of home porting for cruise lines is one opportunity to be pursued based on the island’s strategic location in the Northeastern Caribbean, established airlinks to North, Latin America, and Europe and the diversity experience. The Port seeks to offer a luxury vacation package for homeporting. Rainforest Adventures was congratulated by the Port for being named the most innovative shore excursion. The local excursion capturing this recognition demonstrates the country’s resilience post-Hurricane Irma. The Port informed cruise partners about preparations for US Customs and Immigration pre-clearance, which partners see as a big plus for the destination. Interests was also shown in the Port Community System as well as information technology developments for vacation destinations. In photo: Johnson and FCCA President Michele Paige with Port St. Maarten and Tourist Bureau representatives at Seatrade Cruise Med.
Source: The Daily Herald https://www.thedailyherald.sx/islands/81013-interest-in-home-porting
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