Amid record-breaking stay-over arrivals and sustained growth in cruise tourism, St. Vincent and the Grenadines is intensifying efforts to secure a larger share of the UK travel market. This week, Minister of Tourism Hon. Carlos James led a delegation to the United Kingdom to strengthen ties with key cruise industry players, including Carnival Cruise Lines UK and P&O Cruises—operators holding the largest UK market share.
During high-level meetings at Carnival’s Southampton headquarters, the delegation engaged with top cruise executives to explore strategic partnerships. Minister James highlighted a 26.7% surge in UK visitor arrivals to SVG compared to pre-pandemic levels, signaling recovery and future growth.
The visit coincided with the launch of SVG’s “Discover More” UK marketing campaign, which features 10 branded London black cabs promoting the destination and its direct Virgin Atlantic flight from London Heathrow to Argyle International Airport. SVG will also be spotlighted in Virgin Atlantic’s Skyscanner Caribbean campaign in May 2025.
Minister James noted SVG’s increasing global competitiveness, underscored by new hotel developments and upcoming expansions to the Kingstown Cruise Terminal.
The UK delegation included SVG Tourism Authority CEO Annette Mark, Director of Sales UK and Europe Natasha Anderson, and Senior Digital Marketing Officer Jamali Jack.
