He added, “As a result, CLIA estimated that the entire global cruise fleet’s return should result in a 2023 demand that is equal to 2019 levels. On this point, I should add that we need to look at what the trends and demands are for millennials and ensure that we are positioning ourselves to attract this market,” Hon Rymer said in a speech on Friday, May 13, 2022.

Hon Rymer said; however, that he does not believe the current VI tourism product is very attractive to the millennials market segment and that must change.

The Deputy Premier in the speech said trends have also highlighted a strong focus on sustainability coming out of the recent Global Seatrade Conference in Miami.

“Details and goals for the industry's sustainability commitment and progress were presented, and it was stressed that the industry is resolved to be a leader in sustainability with CLIA’s oceangoing member lines committing to reach net-zero emissions by 2050. Net-zero translates to "no carbon emissions."

Hon Rymer said, however, that he does not believe the current VI tourism product is very attractive to the millennials market segment and that much change.

More sustainability

He added that in the meantime the Cruise industry will continue to ramp up sustainability efforts with the use of batteries, fuel cells, and green LNG power.

“One option that was raised in helping to keep port communities greener is that ships plug into the existing electric grid, rather than running their engines in port.”

Hon Rymer said coming out of the conference, many ships are ready to receive shore power, and local communities that ships visit are looking at and making decisions to provide what is needed in that regard.

He added that those are just some of the things the VI must look at as the territory aims to continue the growth of its cruise industry as well as market share.