In a powerful demonstration of regional solidarity, Caribbean tourism leaders convened aboard Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas for the landmark “Iconic Summit” this month. The high-level gathering, organized during the Caribbean Tourism Organization’s second annual Caribbean Weekend in Miami, addressed critical recovery efforts following October’s devastating Hurricane Melissa while charting a course toward sustainable industry growth.
Royal Caribbean International President and CEO Michael Bayley detailed his company’s rapid humanitarian response, describing how over 100 pallets of essential supplies—including generators, food, and water—were deployed through Jamaica’s Falmouth port. The cruise giant coordinated with multiple partners to ensure effective distribution in hardest-hit communities.
“Our connection to the Caribbean runs deep,” Bayley emphasized during a dialogue with CTO Secretary-General Dona Regis-Prosper. “In times of crisis, we answer the call and do everything possible to support these communities that are so integral to our operations.”
CTO Chairman Ian Gooding-Edghill, who also serves as Barbados’ Minister of Tourism and International Transport, expressed profound gratitude for Royal Caribbean’s support while championing innovative public-private partnerships. “The future of Caribbean tourism depends on our ability to reimagine together—to innovate, collaborate and believe in our region’s boundless potential,” he asserted, highlighting the necessity of data-driven policies and enhanced connectivity.
The summit produced concrete frameworks for collaboration, with Bayley advocating for comprehensive “master planning” to develop sustainable tourism models. He identified significant opportunities for closer cruise-port coordination and creating career pathways for Caribbean youth through engagement with labor ministers and industry stakeholders.
Royal Caribbean further committed to advanced sustainability measures including environmental technologies, shore power systems, and resilient port infrastructure. Despite recent challenges, industry projections indicate millions of cruise visitors will arrive in 2025, underscoring tourism’s vital role in regional economies and employment.
The gathering maintained a purposeful tone throughout, reinforcing that tourism represents a shared responsibility requiring “all hands on deck”—a sentiment echoed even as attendees enjoyed cultural presentations including “The Wizard of Oz” and an appearance by the ship’s “Chief Dog Officer.”