Premier and Minister of Finance, Honourable Andrew A. Fahie met with Florida Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA) President Ms. Michelle Paige on June 3 to discuss a safe return of the cruise industry to the British Virgin Islands.

Premier Fahie said he was pleased to have had a thorough discussion with the FCCA to fine tune what the cruising experience in the Virgin Islands will be like post COVID-19.

The Premier said, “We are not just looking at the return of the ships to the Virgin Islands. But, also about how Virgin Islanders and residents have a stake in the industry through employment with cruise liners and potential entrepreneurial ventures.”

Meanwhile, President of the FCCA, Ms. Paige said that she was pleased to work diligently with Premier Fahie to be able to have the people of the BVI reap the full benefits of cruise tourism.

She said that the FCCA has acknowledged the commitment made by the Premier to put the necessary protocols in place to have the safe resumption of cruise ships to the BVI.

As a result, Ms. Paige said the BVI will be one of the first destinations to receive cruise ships. She added that ships will be staying in territories longer to allow passengers to have a more in depth stay in the Virgin Islands.

Ms. Paige challenged Virgin Islanders to seize the benefits that will be derived from this decision. Additionally, she advised locals to give the tourist an experience that underlines what is unique and special about the BVI including its culture, customs and foods.

 “Happy passengers spend money, because those passengers will want to come back time and time again as hotel guests,” Ms. Paige.

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NOTES TO EDITORS:

Photo 1:1 Premier and Minister of Finance, Honourable Andrew A. Fahie and Florida Caribbean Cruise Association President, Ms. Michelle Paige.