Carnival Corporation & plc, the world’s largest leisure travel company, solidified its dedication to fostering the growth of Caribbean tourism at the Caribbean Tourism Organization’s (CTO) State of the Tourism Industry Conference (SOTIC) in the Cayman Islands. The company actively engaged in critical discussions, including a panel on the cruise sector’s expansion, and provided crucial support for the Tropical Shipping Regional Tourism Youth Congress, underscoring its long-standing commitment to the region.
In line with its ongoing efforts to cultivate the next generation of tourism professionals, Carnival Corporation presented a $4,000 scholarship to the winner of this year’s Regional Tourism Youth Congress. This scholarship recognized the winner’s innovative idea, designed to propel the future of Caribbean tourism. Moreover, in collaboration with Acordis International Corp., the company provided a laptop to the second-place winner. The Youth Congress, which brings together students aged 14 to 17 from CTO member countries, serves as a platform for young leaders to exchange ideas and contribute to shaping the industry’s future direction.
Carnival Corporation’s commitment to Caribbean tourism extends beyond business growth; it focuses on empowering local communities and backing educational initiatives. By investing in the region’s future leaders, the company aims to inspire fresh solutions to the challenges facing the tourism sector. This approach not only strengthens the local economy but also enhances the long-term sustainability of Caribbean tourism, aligning with Carnival’s broader vision of responsible and impactful engagement in the region.
Marie McKenzie, Senior Vice President, Government and Destination Affairs for Carnival Corporation & plc, stated, “Carnival Corporation is proud to support the CTO’s Youth Congress and invest in the future of Caribbean tourism. We believe in the potential of Caribbean youth to shape an innovative and sustainable future for the industry. This scholarship is just one way we’re working to nurture talent and create opportunities for the next generation of tourism leaders.”
David Candib, Vice President of Port Operations for Carnival Cruise Line, participated in a panel discussion on the “Growth of the Cruise Sector” alongside Richard Sasso, Chairman of MSC Cruises USA. Candib shared insights on the industry’s record-breaking performance and Carnival’s ambitious expansion plans. “The cruise industry continues to break records, with demand for cruise vacations at an all-time high,” Candib stated. “Carnival Corporation recently closed another quarter delivering records across revenues, operating income, customer deposits, and booking levels, exceeding our guidance on every measure.”
Candib also emphasized Carnival Corporation’s measured approach to growth, addressing the continued strong demand for the world’s most popular cruise line with five new ship orders for Carnival Cruise Line to be delivered between 2027 and 2033. He also discussed plans for Celebration Key, a new destination port in Grand Bahama offering unique experiences across 65 acres.
Dona Regis-Prosper, CTO’s Secretary-General and CEO, praised Carnival Corporation’s engagement: “We are delighted to have Carnival Corporation’s strong presence at SOTIC. Their commitment to Caribbean tourism, from empowering our youth to driving sustainable growth, exemplifies the kind of partnership that propels our region forward. The company’s initiatives in local employment and environmental stewardship are invaluable as we collectively shape the future of Caribbean tourism.”
Carnival Corporation continues to prioritize creating local career opportunities and boosting the economic impact in the Caribbean. During the Youth Congress, the company provided participants with a tour, offering them a firsthand look at the diverse career paths available within the cruise industry. Currently, approximately 1,400 Caribbean nationals are employed on Carnival Cruise Line ships, showcasing the company’s significant contribution to regional employment.
To further support workforce development in the region, Carnival has launched several initiatives aimed at expanding career opportunities for Caribbean residents. These include a partnership with the Caribbean Maritime University (CMU) to provide at-sea experience for maritime students over the next three years, as well as the introduction of nautical and culinary apprenticeship programs. Additionally, the company hosts ongoing recruitment and employment presentations within Caribbean communities, actively encouraging local talent to explore careers in the cruise sector.
Through these initiatives, Carnival is not only strengthening its workforce but also contributing to the long-term economic development of the Caribbean. By investing in local talent and providing practical training opportunities, the company is helping to create a sustainable employment pipeline for the region, empowering individuals and supporting the broader growth of the tourism industry. “Our participation in this conference and our ongoing initiatives demonstrate Carnival Corporation’s unwavering commitment to the Caribbean. We’re not just cruise operators; we’re active participants in shaping a thriving, sustainable tourism ecosystem that benefits both visitors and residents,” added McKenzie.
Carnival Corporation’s involvement in the CTO State of the Tourism Industry Conference reflects its larger strategy of advancing Caribbean tourism through collaborative public-private partnerships. By blending private sector innovation with public sector policy-making, the company aims to develop impactful strategies that drive regional growth and deliver widespread benefits across the Caribbean.
