St. John’s, Antigua – September 5, 2025 – First Impressions Matter! That’s why Antigua Cruise Port (ACP) took the bold step to bring frontline Destination Ambassadors together for the Cruise Connect - Align, Connect and Grow - themed Cruise Excellence Workshop, designed to elevate the destination experience for cruise passengers in the 2025/2026 season.
The two-day workshop opened with remarks from Hon. Charles Fernandez, Minister of Tourism, Investment and Economic Development who celebrated participants for the invaluable role that they play in the cruise industry. He shared, “I’m really proud of how far we have come with Antigua Cruise Port (ACP) and the support that Government has placed behind our partnership. We are pleased with not only the level of representation that Global Ports Holding (GPH) brings when we engage cruise lines, but also the kind of experience and professionalism they have brought to our port.”
The sessions were led by international trainer, Ms. Claudine Pohl of Lemoneight, a globally recognized expert in cruise community engagements. Participants including taxi drivers, transport board officials, security personnel and members of the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda shared different perspectives and explored how professionalism, cultural pride, and hospitality can shape the first impressions for visitors to Antigua and Barbuda.
Through highly interactive sessions, participants gained fresh insights that highlighted how the actions of every single stakeholder can impact the entire sector, influencing visitor satisfaction and ultimately the demand for the destination from cruise lines.
“We remains fully committed to supporting and driving the growth for Antigua and Barbuda in the global cruise industry” said Mr. Lancelot Arnold, Director of GPH Eastern Caribbean. “That is why this training is so important, because it reflects the commitment from Antigua Cruise Port in ensuring that every visitor experience is nothing short of outstanding”
With the highly anticipated opening of the new Antigua Cruise Port cruise terminal this November - where the island will welcome P&O Cruises’ Arvia for expanded homeporting - participants left the workshop inspired to unite in delivering world-class service that reflects the best of Antigua and Barbuda.
The Cruise Excellence Workshop also sets the stage for the upcoming Cruise Connect 2025 conference to be held on September 16, 2025, at Royalton Antigua Hotel. This highly anticipated annual event will gather international cruise executives and local stakeholders to discuss strategies for “Navigating Success in Cruise Tourism”.
“These initiatives underscore our unwavering commitment to positioning Antigua and Barbuda as a premier cruise destination of choice” said Mr. Gasper George, General Manager at Antigua Cruise Port. “By bringing together our teams and partners, we are ensuring that every cruise guest who visits our beautiful shores leaves with an unforgettable impression of the country and our people.”
🎥 Watch the video recap of Day 1 of the Cruise Excellence Workshop: https://youtu.be/nrTw8-ZExjI
🎥 Watch the video recap of Day 2 of the Cruise Excellence Workshop: https://youtu.be/hunmG1gNdV8
Capture the full energy of the workshop by connecting with us on social media @antiguacruiseport to see participant highlights, more photos and even behind-the-scene moments.
“Antigua Cruise Port – Ready, Set, Sail… Unlocking Quay Opportunities for Antigua and Barbuda!”
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