Guyana getting serious about cruise tourism
Published on September 7, 2026
Beth Hatt Co-Creator of the Aquila Center for Cruise Excellence
The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO), in collaboration with Aquila Center for Cruise Excellence, will host a special Cruise Master Class during the 2026 State of the Tourism Industry Conference (SOTIC) in Guyana.
It will take place from October 5-9, 2026, as the country takes important steps toward developing its potential as an emerging cruise tourism destination.
The Master Class, titled “Maximizing Destination Value through Cruise Tourism,” will feature Michele Paige, CEO of the Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA).
Her presentation will help Guyana assess the opportunities, requirements and partnerships necessary to build a competitive cruise tourism product.
Norris Clement, CTO’s Deputy Director of Professional Services
Norris Clement, CTO’s deputy director of professional services, said the Master Class reflects CTO’s commitment to ensuring that tourism growth is supported by the skills, knowledge and institutional capacity required to deliver long-term benefits.
Aquila Center for Cruise Excellence has over 35 years of experience delivering training and development programs for destinations, tour companies, tour guides and front-line operators.
