The Hon. G. A. Dwyer Astaphan, Minister of Tourism, Commerce and Consumer Affairs, today announces that the 12th Annual Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA) Conference will be held on St. Kitts from September 26-30, 2005.
This important event will bring over 1,000 cruise industry executives and partners together for five full days of networking on St. Kitts.  Events will include a trade show, golf tournament, conference, workshops, seminars, meetings, a gala closing party and tours of some of St. Kitts’ most impressive sites.

Functions will be held at various locations throughout St. Kitts, including the St. Kitts Marriott Resort, Ottley’s Plantation Inn, Port Zante and the magnificent Brimstone Hill Fortress.

“We are very pleased that the FCCA has selected us to host this exciting event,” commented G. A. Dwyer Astaphan. “Not only is this a key forum for the cruising industry, but it is also a truly wonderful opportunity for us here on St. Kitts to showcase not only our recently updated cruise port, but the diversity and strength of our all tourism offerings for cruise passengers and crew alike.  We plan to roll out the red carpet for all our conference guests.”

Ms. Michele Paige, President of the FCCA, added, “The cruise ships are coming to St. Kitts. I can tell you that when the Prime Minister of St. Kitts came and met with Micky Arison, Chairman & CEO of Carnival Corporation and Chairman of the FCCA. Micky committed to the Prime Minister all of his resources, which are considerable - seeing that he owns eight cruise lines himself - to make it possible for St. Kitts to reap the benefits of the cruise industry.”

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