St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) is steadfast in its commitment to sustainable tourism, ensuring the destination remains unspoiled by over-commercialization. Annette Mark, CEO of the SVG Tourism Authority (SVGTA), emphasized this vision during her address at the Caribbean Tourism Organisation’s (CTO) 2025 State of the Tourism Industry Conference in Bridgetown, Barbados. Mark highlighted SVG’s dedication to preserving its natural and cultural heritage for future generations while offering visitors an authentic and unique experience.
Mark underscored the importance of responsible development, stating that SVG will never feature massive hotels or overcrowded beaches. Instead, the focus is on community tourism, ensuring that local communities benefit economically and socially from tourism activities. The SVGTA is actively upgrading tourism sites to enhance visitor experiences while maintaining the destination’s charm.
SVG’s multi-island geography is a key attraction, with seamless inter-island connectivity via airports and reliable ferry services. Mark noted that travelers can reach any island within 15 minutes, making it an accessible yet exclusive destination. The country’s tourism strategy is paying off, with a 58.7% year-on-year increase in arrivals from the United States and over 100,000 stay-over visitors for the first time in history.
Air connectivity is expanding, with Virgin Atlantic, American Airlines, JetBlue, and Delta supporting the destination. Additionally, SVG is attracting high-end cruise passengers, aligning with its positioning as a luxury destination. The government is also partnering with major hospitality brands, including Sandals and Marriott, to enhance accommodation options while maintaining a balance between luxury and accessibility.
Mark painted a vivid picture of SVG’s diverse landscapes, from the rugged volcanic terrain of St. Vincent to the pristine white sand beaches of the Grenadines. She invited visitors to imagine the beauty of each island, reinforcing SVG’s appeal as a unique and emerging destination. With a target of 120,000 stay-over visitors this year and a 17.3% increase already recorded, SVG is poised for sustainable growth in its tourism sector.