FCCA

We promote the mutual interests of the cruise industry and destinations and stakeholders in the Caribbean and Latin America.

[FCCA @FCCAupdates]

🇯🇲 The IShowSpeed effect is still going strong in Jamaica!

Even though he’s long since left the island, the global streaming sensation’s visit continues to generate powerful exposure for Jamaica across the world.

After an unforgettable time in Kingston, IShowSpeed (Darren Jason Watkins Jr.) enjoyed a special off-stream culinary experience at the iconic Miss T’s Kitchen in Ocho Rios. The visit was thoughtfully curated by Jamaica Vacations Limited through Jamaica Cruising to showcase the best of the North Coast’s food and culture.
Speed was warmly hosted by:

•⁠ ⁠Joy Roberts – Executive Director, Jamaica Vacations Limited (JAMVAC)
•⁠ ⁠Tova Hamilton – Minister of State in the Ministry of Tourism
•⁠ ⁠Anna-Kay Tomlinson – Owner of Miss T’s Kitchen, along with her daughter Lauren
•⁠ ⁠Muralist Damion Elliott – Infinity Art Plus

Jamaica Cruising facilitated ground transportation through Jamark Transportation, curated welcome gifts, and coordinated authentic Jamaican meals and experiences through local vendors to support IShowSpeed and his team during their time on the island.

From award-winning oxtail to authentic Jamaican flavors and vibrant hospitality, the experience highlighted why Jamaica remains a top destination.

Congratulations to our strategic partner Jamaica and all who helped create these meaningful moments that put Jamaica on the global stage.

#FCCA #CruiseTourism #VisitJamaica

[FCCA @FCCAupdates]

🎂 What better way to celebrate a remarkable birthday than by spotlighting a remarkable legacy?

Today, we are honored to debut the newest episode of the FCCA Leadership Series featuring our CEO Michele Paige — a trailblazer whose leadership has helped shape Caribbean cruise tourism for more than five decades.

In this engaging conversation, Michele Paige shares reflections on partnership, people, authentic Caribbean experiences, economic opportunity, and the future of the industry she has helped transform. 🌎🚢

Happy Birthday, Michele, and thank you for the passion, vision and commitment you continue to bring to the Caribbean and global cruise community.

#FCCA #CruiseIndustry #LeadershipSeries

[FCCA @FCCAupdates]

🎉 Happy Birthday to our CEO Michele Paige!

Wishing you a fantastic birthday filled with joy, relaxation and plenty of celebration. Thank you for all you do for the Caribbean and the cruise industry family. 🌴⚓️

#FCCA #CruiseIndustry

[FCCA @FCCAupdates]

🌊⚓ International Day for Women in Maritime | May 18

Today we celebrate International Day for Women in Maritime, established by the IMO in 2021 to recognize the vital contributions of women in the industry and advance gender equality at sea and ashore.

Guided by this year’s theme — “From Policy to Practice: Advancing Gender Equality for Maritime Excellence” — FCCA and our member cruise lines are taking meaningful action.

Coming soon: FCCA Young Women’s Mentorship Initiative — Inspiring the Next Wave of Leaders.

Led by FCCA CEO Michele Paige and FCCA Operations Committee Chair Marie McKenzie, SVP Government & Destination Affairs, Carnival Corporation, this exciting new program will empower talented young women from the Caribbean through mentorship and hands-on cruise industry exposure.

The future is female — and we can’t wait to share more.
Stay tuned. ⚓

#FCCA #CruiseIndustry #WomenInMaritime

@Interna71586784
@CarnivalCorpLtd

[FCCA @FCCAupdates]

🌟 Congratulations to Saint Vincent and the Grenadines on the Launch of “LOVE SVG”! 🌟

FCCA warmly congratulates the Government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, led by Minister of Tourism Dr. Kishore Shallow, on the official launch of LOVE SVG — a bold, people-centered national tourism initiative. Following valuable feedback at Seatrade Cruise Global in Florida last month, where cruise partners praised SVG’s natural beauty but called for an elevated visitor experience, Minister Shallow and his team have responded with this inspiring program that puts Vincentians, their communities and culture at the heart of tourism development.

LOVE SVG will deliver 100 priority projects focusing on infrastructure, heritage, hospitality and community-based tourism to prepare for a stronger season ahead. FCCA applauds this inclusive and sustainable approach and looks forward to seeing SVG, one of our valued strategic partners, shine brighter for both visitors and locals. ❤️
#FCCA #CruiseIndustry #LoveSVG

[FCCA @FCCAupdates]

Caribbean Health Update: Regional Risk Remains Low

The Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) has confirmed that the recent hantavirus cluster was isolated to a single remote expedition vessel in the South Atlantic — entirely separate from Florida-Caribbean cruise routes.

The Essentials:
•⁠ ⁠Regional Risk: Formally classified as low for the Caribbean.
•⁠ ⁠Our Commitment: FCCA member lines continue to operate under rigorous health protocols that exceed international standards.
•⁠ ⁠Peace of Mind: We stay vigilant so you can cruise with total confidence.

Official CARPHA Statement: https://t.co/fXgaH0jkgG

Your safety is our top priority. Happy cruising! 🌴🚢

[FCCA @FCCAupdates]

From the FCCA Pavilion at Seatrade Cruise Global last month, the energy was electric — and the conversations even stronger.

A steady stream of high-level meetings, strategic introductions and fresh partnerships underscored our shared commitment to shaping the future of Caribbean cruise tourism. 🚢

Marc Melville, CEO of Chukka Caribbean Adventures, highlighted how rising demand for authentic, high-impact experiences is fueling innovation across the region — including exciting new marquee attractions in Jamaica.

He also emphasized the critical importance of resilience, reinvestment and community impact — as operators upgrade their offerings and cruise tourism continues to deliver immediate economic benefits to local communities, from tour operators and taxi drivers to small businesses and artisans.

🎥 Watch the video.

#FCCA #CruiseIndustry #STCGlobal

[FCCA @FCCAupdates]

FCCA Member Lines driving solutions for a more sustainable cruise future 🌊🚢

Representatives from Royal Caribbean Group and Carnival Cruise Line took an active role at the Caribbean Tourism Organization’s Sustainable Tourism Conference in Belize this week, contributing to the panel “Innovating Cruise Tourism in the Blue Economy: Stewardship and Local Impact Solutions.”

Miguel Pena, Director, Corporate Responsibility, Royal Caribbean Group (top image), and Benton Lobo, Vice President, Compliance and Environmental Operations, Carnival Cruise Line, joined regional partners to share the industry’s approach to growth across the Caribbean.

From the cruise industry perspective, the focus is clear – strengthening partnerships with destinations, engaging stakeholders in the planning process and investing in initiatives that deliver meaningful local impact.
Discussions highlighted ongoing efforts to enhance environmental performance, support community-based experiences and expand opportunities for Caribbean talent within the sector.

The message from the industry: sustainable growth will be driven by collaboration, innovation and a shared commitment to ensuring that cruise tourism benefits both visitors and the communities that welcome them.
#FCCA #CruiseIndustry

[FCCA @FCCAupdates]

Strengthening partnerships, supporting resilience 🤝🇯🇲

FCCA extends our congratulations to our strategic partners in Jamaica for their swift recovery and their ongoing commitment to the cruise sector. This enduring partnership reflects our shared vision for growth, innovation and delivering exceptional visitor experiences across the region.

It was a pleasure connecting with Joy Roberts, Executive Director of Jamaica Vacations, and Tova Hamilton, Minister of State in the Ministry of Tourism, and their exceptional colleagues during Seatrade Cruise Global.

As Jamaica navigates recent challenges, FCCA stands firmly in your corner. The resilience and spirit of this destination are truly admirable, and we remain fully vested in your continued success. Together, we are building a more connectedand collaborative Caribbean cruise industry.
#FCCA #CruiseIndustry #STCGlobal

[FCCA @FCCAupdates]

A welcome we won’t soon forget! 💃🇲🇽

There’s no better way to kick off a partnership than with heart, soul and rhythm. We’re still buzzing from the incredible welcome our team received in Cozumel, where vibrant cultural performances set the tone for a truly memorable visit.

That spirit of celebration carried into a week of productive dialogue with Quintana Roo Governor Mara Lezama Espinosa and her team. The energy we experienced reflects the same passion the Governor brings to showcasing Cozumel to the world.

Our conversations were just as dynamic, focused on tangible ways to strengthen collaboration and drive shared success.

Thank you to Governor Mara Lezama Espinosa and Secretary of Tourism Bernardo Cueto Riestra for such a warm and inspiring welcome to representatives from FCCA, Carnival Corporation & plc, MSC Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd., and Royal Caribbean Group. We’re honored to work alongside you to create meaningful economic opportunities for local communities while enhancing the guest experience. 🚢✨
#FCCA #CruiseIndustry #Mexico

[FCCA @FCCAupdates]

Strengthening connections, celebrating culture 🤝🌎🇲🇽

FCCA was on the ground in Cozumel, Quintana Roo, Mexico, where our leadership team — CEO Michele Paige and President Adam Ceserano — joined cruise and government leaders for an engaging look at the destination, highlighted by vibrant cultural performances, shared moments of fellowship and meaningful dialogue.

Joining the delegation were Matthew Weintraub of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd., Vicky Rey and Jesus Mendez of Carnival Corporation & plc; Rosana Morillos and Victor Monroy of MSC Cruises; and Luli Herreramoro and Ari Adler Brotman of Royal Caribbean Group, who were welcomed by Mara Lezama Espinosa, Governor of Quintana Roo, and Bernardo Cueto Riestra, Secretary of Tourism.

The visit reflects a shared commitment to deepening partnerships, enriching the visitor experience and advancing long-term success for destinations and cruise stakeholders alike.

#FCCA #CruiseIndustry

[FCCA @FCCAupdates]

Congratulations to Norwegian Cruise Line on their return to Philadelphia — the first cruise line to sail from the city in 15 years. This milestone brings cruise tourism back to the Mid-Atlantic as Philadelphia celebrates the country’s 250th anniversary.

Norwegian Jewel kicked off operations from the new PhilaPort Cruise Terminal on April 16, 2026, offering 7- to 9-day Bermuda itineraries. Norwegian Pearl joins later this year in November 2026 with Canada and New England sailings. The seven-year commitment establishes Philadelphia as a home port and brings meaningful growth to the region's tourism industry.

Daniel Farkas, Executive Vice President and General Counsel of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd., joined Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro and local officials for the ceremony aboard Norwegian Jewel, celebrating the historic return of cruising to the city.

@CruiseNorwegian
@JoshShapiroPA
@PhilaPort

[FCCA @FCCAupdates]

This Earth Day, we celebrate our cruise partners who are leading the way in environmental stewardship. From advanced waste management to cutting-edge sustainable maritime technologies, your dedication to protecting our region's natural beauty is inspiring. Together with our destination partners, we are ensuring a vibrant, sustainable future for our waters and communities. 🌊🚢 #FCCA #CruiseTourism #EarthDay

[FCCA @FCCAupdates]

Puerto Rico is charting an exciting course in cruise tourism 🇵🇷

At Seatrade Cruise Global 2026, Jorge I. Pérez González, Deputy Executive Director of the Puerto Rico Tourism Company, shares strong momentum for the destination — from continued growth in cruise arrivals to rising interest in expanded homeporting.

He also underscores the value of partnership with FCCA in strengthening relationships with cruise lines and unlocking new opportunities beyond San Juan.

With sustained collaboration and growing demand, Puerto Rico is well positioned for even greater impact in the cruise sector. 🤝

Save the date: 32nd FCCA Cruise Conference & Trade Show | San Juan, Puerto Rico | Oct 12–16, 2026

🎥 Watch the video
#FCCA #STCGlobal #CruiseIndustry

[FCCA @FCCAupdates]

FCCA President Adam Ceserano and the entire team were honored to connect with Jennifer Matarangas-King in Miami last week to mark a significant milestone: a decade of the U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism’s sponsorship of the FCCA Welcome Reception at Seatrade Cruise Global.

This partnership — which has thrived across multiple administrations — is rooted in a shared dedication to growing Caribbean cruise tourism and creating lasting impact for local communities. Our collaboration continues to strengthen ties between destinations and cruise partners, while highlighting the vibrant culture, energy and hospitality of the U.S. Virgin Islands on the global stage.

We extend our sincere gratitude to Commissioner Matarangas-King and the entire USVI team for their steadfast leadership. We are proud of this legacy and excited for all we will achieve together in the years ahead. 🤝

[FCCA @FCCAupdates]

🇻🇬 The British Virgin Islands is seeing strong momentum in cruise tourism — with close to 900,000 cruise passengers welcomed last year and continued growth on the horizon.

Speaking at Seatrade Cruise Global in Miami Beach last week, Director of Tourism Clive McCoy highlights how strategic collaboration with Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association is helping to drive sustainable growth and ensure long-term success for the destination.

From double-digit growth in arrivals to a shared commitment to continuous improvement, the BVI continues to reinforce its position as a leading Caribbean cruise destination. 🤝🏾

🎥 Watch the video
#FCCA #CruiseIndustry #STCGlobal

[FCCA @FCCAupdates]

Record 16 Cruise Presidents, CEOs Attend FCCA Foundation Dinner

Shining Stars FCCA Foundation Dinner Takes Center Stage at Seatrade Cruise Global

MIAMI BEACH, Fla. (April 16, 2026) — Top executives commanding more than 90% of global cruise capacity turned out in record numbers for the Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association’s Shining Stars FCCA Foundation Dinner, transforming a sold-out evening at Papi Steak Miami into a high-level networking event and major fundraiser for Caribbean and Latin American communities.

The invitation-only gathering, held during Seatrade Cruise Global, drew 16 presidents and executives at that level or above — underscoring the industry’s strong commitment to destination partnerships and youth-focused philanthropy.

“I cannot be more honored and humbled by the record number of executives,” said Michele Paige, CEO of FCCA. ���This clearly demonstrates their commitment not only to the Foundation’s mission and its impact on hundreds of thousands of lives, but also to FCCA’s initiatives that create specialized forums connecting cruise executives with destinations and stakeholders for the betterment of all.”

Read more here: https://t.co/jGIQqQKHrC

[FCCA @FCCAupdates]

The FCCA booth at Seatrade Cruise Global was a hive of activity as delegates connected and collaborated, working together to further the development of cruise tourism in the Caribbean.

Such a wonderful thing to see — industry partners coming together, sharing ideas and building stronger pathways for growth across the region. 🤝🏾

#FCCA #STCGlobal #CruiseIndustry