78 communities to develop profitable tourism enterprises while preserving their cultural and natural assets. We also offer an online CBT Enterprise Handbook, which serves as a practical guide for entrepreneurs looking to engage in tourism in a sustainable and meaningful way.” Meanwhile, the FCCA is working with ports across the region to ensure that cruise tourism delivers the benefits they are looking for. “The FCCA works with over 50 destinations, from Puerto Rico to Sint Maarten and the Cayman Islands,” says Adam Ceserano, president of the FCCA. “Every one of these destinations has a different strategic objective when working with the cruise lines, and that’s where we come in. We help our partners if they want to meet with cruise line executives, or if they want to talk about passenger spending – we aim to be a onestop shop for any subject that touches a cruise passenger.” Ceserano highlights the efforts of the FCCA’s partners in helping Caribbean cruising go from strength to strength. “The US Virgin Islands has worked with the cruise lines tremendously to make multiple different ports open to them, helping to ease traffic while increasing overall arrivals,” says Cesarano. “The British Virgin Islands has come back from the damage caused by a hurricane to be on the verge of breaking records for the number of cruise passengers and has created a range of sustainable shore excursions in partnership with cruise lines.” The CTO works closely with its cruise partners on initiatives to help safeguard the wellbeing of cruise guests and open up more historical and cultural heritage sites for tourists. The organisation is now exploring how to extend the length of cruise calls too. “Our continued close collaboration with cruise partners is paving the way for more extended port stays in the future,” says Regis-Prosper. “The hope is this will allow visitors to explore beyond the typical tourist areas, discover hidden gems and truly immerse themselves in the local culture.” REGIONAL SPOTLIGHT: FLORIDA-CARIBBEAN “ Every one of these destinations has a different strategic objective when working with the cruise lines” Adam Ceserano FCCA Photo: Discover Puerto Rico The Caribbean’s sea, beaches and pristine environment are particularly attractive to visitors
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