Saint Vincent and the Grenadines asserts its commitment to innovation and authenticity
April 8 to 11, 2025, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines was one of the Caribbean territories present at the Seatrade Cruise Global in Miami, the world’s largest trade show dedicated to the cruise industry.
Through the testimonies of the Comité du Tourisme, the Port Authority and the Association des Chauffeurs de Taxi, the country displayed its ambitions: to assert its identity, strengthen its infrastructure, and position itself as an authentic, sustainable and resolutely forward-looking destination in the world of Caribbean cruising.
Developing authentic, diversified tourism - The Comité du Tourisme's vision
For Annette Mark, Managing Director of the Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Tourism Board, Seatrade is ” an essential event, rich in meetings and opportunities for the future “.
She stresses the importance of the next seasons (2026-2028) in consolidating the country’s image on the international stage.
Today, the island is enjoying a real boost thanks to :
- The opening of the international airport in 2017,
The establishment of major hotel brands such as Sandals, Mandarin Oriental and Soho House.
These investments are transforming the tourist experience, particularly on the main island.
However, St. Vincent’s geographical location presents a challenge for classic 7-day cruises departing from Miami.
” We need to create demand to encourage companies to extend their itineraries and come further south,” explains Annette Mark.
What makes Saint Vincent and the Grenadines unique?
Exceptional biodiversity between black sand beaches, waterfalls and volcanoes,
Coral islands with white sandy beaches,
Preserved authenticity, far from mass tourism.
🎯 Annette Mark wants Saint Vincent and the Grenadines to continue to position itself as a boutique, authentic and unforgettable destination.
Focusing on sustainable infrastructure - The Port Authority's strategy
For Carl James, Managing Director of the Port Authority of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Seatrade is an opportunity to ” strengthen ties with cruise lines and improve the customer experience “.
Two strategic axes guide its action:
Diversify offers to invite passengers to explore beyond the city.
Strengthen the sustainability of port infrastructures.
Major projects include
A new freight port, scheduled for completion in August 2025,
The transformation of the old port into a true living space: marina, shops, hotels, cultural spaces and a modernized cruise terminal.
Carl James also insists on promoting the Garifuna heritage, with projects aimed at introducing visitors to their culture, traditional architecture and cuisine.
” What sets us apart is our living history, that of the Garifunas, and we must share it with the world,” he asserts.
🎯 Carl James’ ambition is to build an eco-responsible port, powered by geothermal energy, capable of providing green electricity to ships docked at the port.
Providing warm hospitality - The Taxi Drivers Association commitment
A member of the SVG Taxi Drivers Association, Nigel Antrobus defends another key facet of the tourist experience: personalized hospitality.
For over 40 years, the association has worked to guarantee visitors safety, comfort and local immersion.
” With us, tourists discover places that the big buses can’t reach, enjoy authentic experiences and forge a human bond with our island,” he explains.
Cooperation between drivers, ministries and tourism operators is now helping to balance the flow between organized excursions and private discoveries.
In addition to transport, the Association ensures a high level of reliability:
” If a visitor forgets something, they’re guaranteed to get it back quickly. It’s a question of trust. “
🎯 While Nigel Antrobus is keen to further strengthen cooperation between all the players involved, in order to offer unrivalled hospitality to every visitor.
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, an authentic boutique destination
At Seatrade Cruise Global 2025, St. Vincent and the Grenadines showed that authenticity, sustainability and heritage enhancement are powerful levers for building the future of Caribbean cruising.
Through infrastructure projects, a strong cultural strategy and the commitment of its tourism professionals, the country is charting its course, true to its identity while opening up to new opportunities.
More than a destination, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines offers a living experience where nature, history and hospitality combine to create unique memories.
