The Minister for Communications and Works Honourable Kye Rymer has said that the remarkable surge in cruise passenger arrivals since the summer of 2021 signals a robust recovery in the cruise tourism sector following the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

In his statement at the third sitting of the first session of the fifth house of assembly, Minister Rymer said that the British Virgin Islands Port Authority's (BVIPA) 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.

He said, “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.”

Honourable Rymer also shared statistics on cruise passenger arrivals and how likely cruise passengers are to return to a destination that they’ve previously visited on a cruise ship.

Honourable Rymer said, “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.”

The Minister’s full statement can be viewed on the Government of the Virgin Islands website at www.bvi.gov.vg.

The Ministry of Communications and Works, in coordination with the BVIPA, remains committed to prioritising the safety of all individuals in the Territory while in the pursuit of creating an enhanced community life for every resident and visitor alike.