Minister for Communications and Works Honourable Kye M. Rymer and a British Virgin Islands delegation are meeting with Norwegian Cruise Line, the territory’s largest berthing partner, on Tuesday, April 14, as part of efforts to strengthen cruise tourism partnerships during Seatrade Cruise Global 2026 in Miami, Florida.
The engagement comes as the Virgin Islands advances a broader strategy to expand its cruise sector while placing greater emphasis on long-term value and sustainability amid increasing visitor arrivals.
The conference, which runs from April 13 to 16, has provided an opportunity for the delegation to engage in discussions with key industry stakeholders, strengthen existing relationships and explore new collaborations aligned with the theme, “Beyond the Horizon: Leveraging Cruising’s Strength and Scale to Drive Innovation.”
“A key focus of the Territory’s strategy is the expansion of relationships with smaller, luxury cruise lines,” Honourable Rymer said. “These vessels … offer opportunities for more immersive visitor experiences and stronger potential to convert cruise passengers into overnight guests.”
He said the approach builds on recent developments, including partnerships with brands such as the Orient Express Yacht, which has expanded the territory’s cruise portfolio.
Officials said the delegation is also highlighting sustainability efforts and other strategic priorities aimed at positioning the Virgin Islands for continued growth within the global cruise industry.
The delegation includes representatives from the Ministry of Communications and Works, the BVI Ports Authority, the BVI Tourist Board, Tortola Pier Park and private sector stakeholders.
Seatrade Cruise Global is one of the cruise industry’s largest events, attracting more than 11,000 professionals from over 120 countries and serving as a platform for destinations to strengthen partnerships and secure future cruise business.
