COCI Board strengthens Cruise industry ties at FCCA Conference

GREAT BAY--The St. Maarten Chamber of Commerce & Industry (COCI) Board of Directors, led by President Ms. Peggy-Ann Brandon, made a strong and purposeful showing at the 31st Annual Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA) Conference and Trade Show, held from October 20–24, 2025, in San Juan, Puerto Rico.

This board-led fact-finding mission was designed to deepen COCI’s understanding of the evolving cruise industry landscape, explore partnership opportunities, and strengthen St. Maarten’s presence as a trusted and innovative economic partner in the region. The delegation, which included Ms. Annuska Friday, Ms. Nzinga Lake, Ms. Charlise Philips, Ms. Franjesca Bulbaai, and Ms. Titia van Der Mark, engaged in high-level discussions with Mr. Bryan Attree, Director of Worldwide Port Operations at Royal Caribbean Group; Mr. Carlos Estrada, Director of Commercial Homeport Operations and Mr. Gabriel Aviles, Manager Port Operations for the Caribbean, Europe, Central & Latin America at Carnival Cruise Line.

The meetings provided valuable insights into cruise industry developments, operational priorities, and emerging opportunities for collaboration that could further enhance St. Maarten’s position within the global tourism economy. All three cruise executives praised the island’s continued performance and reputation, with Carnival Cruise Line rating St. Maarten between 8.8 and 9.9 out of 10 in its destination evaluations.

During these exchanges, Mr. Bryan Attree emphasized the importance of preserving the island’s unique appeal, noting that “the authenticity of St. Maarten is part of what makes it stand out, don’t lose the essence of St. Maarten in the product.” His words underscored the industry’s recognition that the island’s cultural and community character remains one of its strongest assets.

President Ms. Peggy-Ann Brandon highlighted that the mission was both intentional and forward-looking. “Our goal was clear, to listen, to learn, and to align,” she said. “COCI attended the FCCA Conference as a united board, gathering critical insights from industry leaders while reinforcing our commitment to fostering partnerships that translate into sustainable economic value for St. Maarten.”

Throughout the conference, the COCI delegation represented the island with professionalism and grace, engaging with regional counterparts and demonstrating the Chamber’s proactive approach to collaboration and economic diplomacy. The visit underscored COCI’s ongoing commitment to driving business dialogue, supporting private sector growth, and ensuring that St. Maarten remains a leader in Caribbean commerce and cruise tourism.

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