Antigua & Barbuda and Saint Lucia to Host Cruise Connect 2025

Cruise Connect 2025 takes center stage this September in Antigua and Barbuda and Saint Lucia. The annual forum, organized by Global Ports Holding (GPH), unites the Caribbean cruise industry under one platform for growth, sustainability, and collaboration. The event takes place on September 16 at Royalton Antigua, Five Islands Village, and September 18 in Saint Lucia.

Cruise Connect 2025 Driving Regional Growth

Cruise Connect 2025 brings together cruise line executives, government leaders, port operators, and tourism stakeholders. The goal is to prepare for the 2025–26 cruise season. Moreover, the forum highlights infrastructure investment, environmental priorities, and strategic partnerships. These priorities ensure the Eastern Caribbean remains a leading cruise destination.

Lancelot Arnold, Regional Director of GPH Eastern Caribbean and General Manager of Saint Lucia Cruise Port, described the forum as a catalyst for progress. “By bringing together government leaders, cruise executives and community partners, we are creating the space to chart a shared path forward,” he explained.

Cruise Connect 2025 Highlights

The Antigua edition features:

• Keynote Address by Charles Fernandez, Minister of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Transportation and Investment
• Cruise Tourism Partner Expo, where tour operators, shore excursion providers, and entrepreneurs present services and innovations
• Panel Discussions covering topics such as Future-Ready Destinations and Sailing in Sync: Partnerships Powering Cruise Success

In addition, Antigua Cruise Port executives will share a forecast for the year ahead. This presentation highlights new opportunities and growth areas.

Building Momentum in Antigua and Saint Lucia

The Saint Lucia program mirrors Antigua’s agenda. However, it adapts discussions to reflect local port needs and priorities. Both destinations close with a summary of key insights, followed by a networking lunch.

As a result, Cruise Connect 2025 does more than highlight challenges. It creates solutions and builds stronger ties across the region. By focusing on sustainability, innovation, and collaboration, the conference ensures Antigua, Saint Lucia, and the wider Eastern Caribbean remain competitive, compelling, and resilient.