Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Bartlett departed the island this morning for Miami, Florida, to lead Jamaica’s delegation at Seatrade Cruise Global 2024, the cruise industry’s premier annual event. The conference, which runs from April 8-11, is expected to draw over 10,000 attendees and more than 600 exhibitors. It serves as a critical platform for stakeholders to engage on the most pressing issues and advancements shaping the cruise tourism sub-sector.

“Jamaica’s cruise industry defied expectations in 2023,” said Minister Bartlett. “Welcoming over 1.2 million cruise passengers and winning the World Travel Award for the World’s Leading Cruise Destination, speak to the island’s enduring appeal and the tireless efforts of our industry partners,” he added.

Looking ahead, the tourism minister expressed optimism for more record-breaking arrivals in 2024. “We are poised for another exceptional year and events like Seatrade Cruise Global are integral to ensuring we connect with key stakeholders and build the relationships that will fuel our continued growth,” he added.

Over the next two days, Minister Bartlett will also spearhead a series of high-level meetings with key players across the global cruise industry. Hitting the ground running on Tuesday afternoon, Minister Bartlett will meet with Christine Duffy, President of Carnival Cruise Lines. He will also participate in the Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association’s (FCCA) President’s reception. Minister Bartlett will then meet with Disney Cruise Lines’ Vice President, Jose Fernandez, and Senior Manager for Government Relations, Barda Kosovrasti.

Wednesday promises to be an equally productive day. Minister Bartlett is slated to lead the delegation’s meeting with MSC Cruise Lines’ Director of Port Operations, Albino Paola Mezzino. This will be followed by a meeting with Norwegian Cruise Lines.

Minister Bartlett will then head to a lunch meeting with a team from Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines, comprising President Michael Bayley, Vice President Russel Benford, and Associate Vice President Wendy McDonald. His official engagements in Florida will conclude with the FCCA Platinum Reception late Wednesday afternoon.

Seatrade Cruise Global serves as a unique platform for industry leaders to share best practices, explore innovative solutions, and navigate the evolving cruise business environment. Minister Bartlett noted that Jamaica’s participation underscores the island’s commitment to remaining at the forefront of these crucial discussions.

“We are confident that through these strategic engagements at Seatrade Cruise Global, we can further solidify Jamaica’s position as a leading cruise destination and secure a prosperous future for those in our local economy whose livelihoods depend on this vital industry,” concluded the tourism minister.

Minister Bartlett is scheduled to return to Jamaica on Thursday, April 11.