A delegation from the British Virgin Islands recently attended the Seatrade Cruise Global 2018 Conference held from March 5 to 8 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

The delegation included individuals from the Ministry of Communications and Works, the BVI Ports Authority, the Taxi and Livery Commission, the BVI Tourist Board, the National Parks Trust and other stakeholders.

Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Communications and Works said the conference was an opportune time to meet with cruise line officials to discuss the restoration of the Territory and agree on actions that will lead to the revitalization of the cruise industry in the Territory.

Mr. McMaster said, “Cruises lines expressed willingness to return to the Territory once areas of concern are dealt with. These concerns ranged from the restoration of roads to increasing transportation capacity on island, all of which we are currently addressing.”

He added that representatives from cruise lines are expecting to return to the Territory in the coming months to conduct further assessments of the Territory’s readiness to receive larger ships.

As customary, the delegation was able to showcase the BVI as a breathtaking destination through local craft, music and other items at the conference.

Tortola Pier Park was named 2017 Port of the Year at the Seatrade Cruise Global Awards.

Seatrade Cruise Global is the leading international exhibition and conference serving the cruise industry which brings together buyers and suppliers for a week of networking, sourcing, innovation and education.