Caribbean nations focus on cruise travel to boost tourism

Monday, January 1, 2024

Caribbean nations are intensifying efforts to bolster tourism by focusing on the cruise industry. Recognising the sector’s pivotal role, countries are strategically aligning initiatives to attract cruise lines and enhance visitor experiences.

Michele Paige, CEO of the Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association, received the 2023 CMEx Leadership Award for her outstanding contributions to Caribbean cruise tourism. Her dynamic leadership has spurred innovative programs, reinforcing the industry’s impact on destinations, communities, and cruise guests. This concerted focus on cruise tourism reflects a collaborative commitment to revitalizing the region’s travel sector and underscores the Caribbean’s resilience and adaptability in navigating the evolving landscape of global tourism.

In a fitting tribute to a career spanning over five decades, Michele Paige, the esteemed CEO of the Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA), was awarded the 2023 CMEx Leadership Award at a prestigious ceremony held in Miami last month. Paige, recognized as a trailblazer in Caribbean cruise tourism, has been a driving force behind the FCCA’s success, elevating the cruise sector’s impact on both cruise lines and the destinations, communities, and individuals responsible for crafting unforgettable experiences for cruise guests.

With a notable history encompassing 17 years in various roles at the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), Paige assumed the role of director of operations and communications at the FCCA in 1992. Subsequently, she ascended to the positions of executive director and president, steering the association towards unprecedented growth and influence. Paige’s leadership has been marked by the introduction of innovative programs and initiatives that have significantly shaped the cruise tourism landscape. From the acclaimed FCCA Cruise Conference and Trade Show to the establishment of the FCCA Foundation and the implementation of diverse training programs, her vision has been pivotal to the sector’s development.

Despite her inability to attend the award ceremony in person, Paige’s heartfelt reaction to this recognition was eloquently captured in a poignant video clip. The footage not only highlighted her genuine appreciation for the honor but also underscored her enduring impact on Caribbean cruise tourism.

Michele Paige’s life reflects a harmonious blend of professional dedication and personal joy. Splitting her time between South Florida and Brooksville, Florida, she finds solace in the company of her family and beloved animals. This balance contributes to her ability to lead with passion and innovation, leaving an indelible mark on the industry she has dedicated her life to.

In the absence of Michele Paige at the ceremony, Omari Breakenridge, the FCCA’s Director of Digital Strategy & Creative Services, graciously accepted the award on her behalf. Breakenridge shared insightful remarks, shedding light on Paige’s extraordinary contributions and the profound influence she has had on the evolution of Caribbean cruise tourism. As the industry continues to evolve, Michele Paige stands as a beacon of leadership and innovation, leaving an enduring legacy that will be felt for years to come.

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