Statement
STATEMENT BY MINISTER FOR COMMUNICATIONS AND WORKS
HONOURABLE KYE M. RYMER AT THE THIRD SITTING OF THE FIRST SESSION OF THE FIFTH HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY OF THE VIRGIN ISLANDS ON UNPRECEDENTED GROWTH IN CRUISE PASSENGER ARRIVALS SINCE SUMMER 2021: PROMISING OUTLOOK FOR 2023-24 SEASON
Thursday 7th September 2023
Madam Speaker, the cruise industry in the Virgin Islands plays a vital role in the overall tourism sector, contributing to the economic growth and development of these beautiful islands. With its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking landscapes, the Virgin Islands has emerged as a popular destination for cruise operators and tourists alike.
Madam Speaker, the cruise industry in the Virgin Islands offers a diverse range of experiences, from leisurely sea voyages to exhilarating water sports activities. Our visitors can explore the stunning coastline, engage in snorkeling and diving adventures, participate in sailing regattas and sport fishing activities or simply relax and soak in the natural beauty of the islands. The Virgin Islands unique blend of Caribbean charm, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality make it a coveted destination for cruise travelers.
To this end, the Ministry of Communication and Works, in partnership with the British Virgin Islands Ports Authority (BVIPA) is delighted to inform this Honourable House about the remarkable surge in cruise passenger arrivals since the summer of 2021, signaling a robust recovery in the cruise tourism sector following the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. The BVIPA's and the Ministry's unwavering commitment to providing a secure and inviting atmosphere has played a pivotal role in the upswing of cruise tourism, with exceptional passenger numbers underscoring a positive trajectory that is expected to continue into the upcoming 2023-2024 season.
Madam Speaker, a comprehensive comparison of Data from the BVIPA’s manifested arrivals of 2021, 2022, and 2023 demonstrates a resilient Cruise Tourism Sector.
Post-COVID Resurgence in 2021:
In summer of 2021 marked the industry's post-pandemic revival, with cruise passenger arrivals steadily gaining momentum as the season progressed. The passenger figures for each month, Madam Speaker, were as follows:
After opening in June, we saw the numbers in:
- July: 650
- August: 299
- September: 516
- October: 1,026
- November: 22,388
- December: 47,384
Total: 72,263
Growing Momentum in 2022:
Madam Speaker, building on the momentum established in 2021, the Territory witnessed a substantial increase in cruise passenger arrivals throughout 2022, reflecting industry demand and a gradual return to pre-pandemic passenger capacity:
- January: 36,602
- February: 32,002
- March: 44,951
- April: 26,446
- May: 16,382
- June: 19,119
- July: 9,894
- August: 14,825
- September: 5,959
- October: 13,546
- November: 45,997
- December: 7,852
Total: 265,723
Continued Progress in 2023:
Madam Speaker, maintaining the upward trajectory into 2023, the Territory has achieved robust cruise passenger arrivals. Madam Speaker the arrivals up to 31st August 2023 are as follows:
- January: 96,613
- February: 94,854
- March: 107,688
- April: 47,645
- May: 28,156
- June: 44,778
- July: 32,943
- August: 39,804
Total: 492,481
Madam Speaker, we have demonstrated remarkable resilience and adaptability, and we are thrilled to witness this exponential growth in cruise tourism. The dedication of our community, combined with strategic planning, has made this achievement possible. The BVI Ports Authority is anticipating an exceptional cruise tourism season in 2023-2024. Based on ongoing trends and projected estimates, the forecast indicates that passenger numbers are set to reach an impressive Seven Hundred and Ninety Four Thousand Four Hundred and Eighty-Nine (794,489) during the upcoming tourism season. This figure surpasses the previous highest recorded cruise passenger arrival number in 2016, which is indicated as Six Hundred and Ninety-Nine Thousand One Hundred and Five (699,105) passengers and is sourced from statistics provided by the Central Statistics Office. This substantial surge in passenger arrivals is a promising development for the Territory's tourism industry, signifying substantial growth and the potential for significant economic advantages in the region.
Madam Speaker, it is essential to highlight that the cruise business is one of BVIPA’s primary revenue sources, accounting for 40% of its total revenue. Additionally, according to data from the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA):
- Every Twenty-Four (24) cruisers worldwide support one full-time job.
- Cruisers typically spend an average of Seven Hundred and Fifty Dollars ($750.00) per passenger in port cities during a standard 7-day trip.
- A significant majority, 6 in 10 people who have taken a cruise, return to a destination they initially visited via a cruise ship.
- 2022 marks a pivotal transition year for the cruise industry, with a full recovery projected for 2023.
- Passenger volume exceeded 101% of 2019 levels by the end of 2022 (considering that 2019 operated at 100% capacity).
- The Caribbean region continues to be the top cruise destination, accounting for 44% of cruise travel.
- The industry is actively pursuing the goal of achieving net carbon-neutral cruising by 2050.
- By 2027, there will be Twenty-Six (26) Liquefied Natural Gas powered cruise ships, constituting 16% of global capacity.
- Additionally, by 2027, One Hundred and Seventy-Four (174) ships will have shore side connectivity, which represents 66% of global capacity.
These statistics highlight the cruise industry's significance and robustness, not only for the Virgin Islands but also for our entire region, offering promising economic opportunities for job creation and the growth of local businesses. Madam Speaker, I thank you.
