Barbados Unites Jamaica, Bermuda, Bahamas, US Virgin Islands, and Dominica at CTO’s Second Annual Caribbean Weekend in Miami at Royal Caribbean International Icon of the Seas, Post-Hurricane Melissa, New Update is Here

Published on December 22, 2025

By: Tuhin Sarkar

Barbados united Jamaica, Bermuda, Bahamas, U.S. Virgin Islands, and Dominica at the Caribbean Tourism Organization’s (CTO) Second Annual Caribbean Weekend in Miami, hosted aboard the Royal Caribbean International’s Icon of the Seas, post-Hurricane Melissa. This historic gathering brought together Caribbean nations to discuss tourism recovery, resilience, and future growth. The event highlighted the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors, especially in times of crisis. As the Caribbean continues to recover, the CTO’s Caribbean Weekend proved that the region is stronger than ever and ready for a bright tourism future.

The aftermath of Hurricane Melissa left devastation in its wake, but the Caribbean’s tourism industry, led by the cruise sector, is proving its resilience. In a historic gathering aboard the Icon of the Seas, Caribbean tourism ministers, directors, and executives came together for an Iconic Summit. This pivotal event was part of the Caribbean Tourism Organization’s (CTO) second annual Caribbean Weekend in Miami. The discussion centered on the role of cruise tourism in the recovery, long-term growth, and sustainability of Caribbean communities facing increasingly severe storms. Here’s how the Caribbean is bouncing back, and how cruise lines like Royal Caribbean are proving that resilience is built into their DNA.

Cruise Tourism Takes the Lead in Caribbean Recovery: Royal Caribbean’s Role in Post-Storm Relief

Royal Caribbean International played a critical role in the recovery efforts following Hurricane Melissa, underlining the cruise industry’s commitment to Caribbean communities. At the Iconic Summit, Michael Bayley, the President and CEO of Royal Caribbean, shared how the company’s swift action helped support communities in Jamaica and Haiti. Over 100 pallets of essential supplies, including food, water, generators, and more, were delivered to Falmouth, Jamaica’s major port. This was a significant humanitarian effort to provide immediate relief after the devastating storm. (Source: Royal Caribbean)

Bayley emphasized that Royal Caribbean views itself as deeply connected to the region and has always been committed to helping communities during crises. This partnership with local organizations ensured that supplies reached those in need, and meal programs were supported in the affected areas. It’s clear that the cruise industry is not just about travel; it’s about being a partner in recovery when disaster strikes.

Tourism Industry Leaders Call for Stronger Public-Private Collaboration in Crisis Management

At the Iconic Summit, Ian Gooding-Edghill, Chairman of the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) and Minister of Tourism and International Transport of Barbados, praised Royal Caribbean and other partners for their swift response. Gooding-Edghill emphasized the urgent need for closer collaboration between governments, the private sector, and industry leaders to build a more resilient tourism model that can better withstand climate-related disruptions.

He highlighted that the future of Caribbean tourism relies on shared innovation, data-driven strategies, and growth initiatives that place local communities at the heart of planning. It’s no longer just about attracting tourists; it’s about ensuring the region’s sustainability and competitiveness through collaboration. As climate change intensifies, this strategic shift is crucial for the long-term health of the industry. (Source: CTO)

The Importance of Master Planning for Sustainable Cruise Tourism in the Caribbean

A key takeaway from the Iconic Summit was the need for long-term master planning to ensure that Caribbean destinations can manage tourism growth sustainably. Michael Bayley emphasized that Royal Caribbean has been committed to sustainable development for years. The company is investing in environmental technologies, shore power systems, and resilient port developments. These initiatives are designed to not only support operational efficiency but also make Caribbean destinations better prepared for future climate challenges.

Master planning isn’t just about expanding the industry; it’s about making sure the growth is sustainable. By integrating sustainability into every aspect of tourism development, cruise lines and governments can create a tourism model that benefits both travelers and local communities. (**Source: Royal Caribbean)

Cruise Lines’ Growing Focus on Caribbean Youth Employment and Community Engagement

The Caribbean is facing long-standing challenges related to workforce participation, particularly among youth. At the summit, Michael Bayley discussed how Royal Caribbean is working to expand pathways to employment for Caribbean youth. The company is engaging with labor ministers and industry leaders to address barriers to workforce participation and create more job opportunities for local communities.

Bayley stressed that creating economic opportunities for young people in the Caribbean will help sustain the tourism industry and foster deeper community ties. It’s clear that the future of Caribbean tourism is tied to empowering the next generation of workers and ensuring that the industry contributes to long-term prosperity. (Source: Royal Caribbean)

Resilience in the Face of Storms: How the Caribbean Cruise Sector is Driving Economic Recovery

Despite the challenges posed by Hurricane Melissa, the Caribbean welcomed millions of cruise visitors in 2025, proving that cruise tourism continues to be a key driver of jobs and economic recovery. As tourism rebounds, cruise lines and local communities are showing their resilience, adapting to the changing climate while ensuring that the Caribbean remains a top destination for travelers. According to official figures, the Caribbean’s cruise industry is stronger than ever, reinforcing its role as a critical economic engine for the region.

The summit’s message was clear: resilience is no longer an option but a necessity. Tourism, especially cruising, must evolve to meet the demands of a changing climate. With cruise lines and governments working hand in hand, the Caribbean can emerge even stronger and more sustainable as a world-class travel destination. (Source: CTO)

The Caribbean’s Cruise Tourism Revolution — A Model of Resilience and Growth for the Future

As the Caribbean tourism sector continues to recover, cruise lines like Royal Caribbean are playing a pivotal role in driving recovery efforts. From humanitarian aid to long-term growth strategies, the Iconic Summit showed that the future of Caribbean tourism is built on partnership, resilience, and sustainability.

The Caribbean’s ability to adapt to climate change, foster youth employment, and collaborate across sectors is setting a new standard for tourism resilience worldwide. As more cruise ships set sail and more tourists flock to the region, the Caribbean’s ability to manage tourism growth responsibly will ensure that it remains a top destination for years to come. The 2025 Caribbean Weekend in Miami proved that the region is ready for whatever challenges lie ahead, ensuring a bright future for Caribbean tourism in 2026 and beyond.