The Ministry of Tourism of St Vincent (SVG) aims to establish an International Sailing Week that aligns with the various regattas taking place across the Grenadines islands.
During his address in parliament on Thursday, September 7, Minister of Tourism Carlos James highlighted the diverse range of regatta styles that are organized in the regions of Bequia, Mayreau, Union Island, and Canouan. Nevertheless, there is a possibility to broaden the range of these occurrences and organize a significant event that encompasses all of the Grenadine Islands, so utilizing the potential of the marine tourist sub-sector, James opined.
“In light of this, the ministry proposes to create a premium marine event that will allow visitors and locals to explore the diversity of our 32 islands and cays while also providing a platform for increased international recognition of our country.”
“The recently launched community tourism consultations will move to Bequia in a matter of weeks.” This is to facilitate discussions about how to proceed with what I’d like to call our International Sailing Week, which will be the first of its type in St Vincent and the Grenadines.”
According to James, in order to actualize this novel concept by 2024, the Ministry of Tourism plans to enhance cooperation with prominent marine entities. This collaboration aims to foster continuous expansion of yachting, diving, and other marine-related endeavors within the region, while also tackling the challenges faced by these specific sectors. According to James, this statement aligns with the tourism development policy of the government. He said it has been a challenge working with some of the stakeholders and interest groups.
“We met with a number of stakeholders and discussed the idea of this International Sailing Week.” Some local stakeholders on Bequia first stated, “Well, you’re coming to mash up our regatta, and we don’t want to be a part of that.” various persons representing various groups on the island remarked, “Well, we welcome this initiative, and it is something that will boost our tourism product and boost our regatta.”
According to James, the primary objective of the International Sailing Week is not to replace the regattas.
“I want to be clear that the intention is not to replace the existing Bequia regatta, but rather to host a series of activities centered on the marine sector from the north all the way down to Union Island in the south.”
James expressed his intention to visit Martinique in order to engage in discussions with yacht charter companies. The purpose of these discussions is to explore strategies that would increase the flow of southbound traffic to the Grenadine Islands in the week prior to Easter weekend. Additionally, James said the aim is to conclude the international sailing week on Bequia during the Easter period.
