BASSETERRE, ST. KITTS — Minister of Tourism, the Hon. Marsha T. Henderson, hosted the Ministry of Tourism’s official press conference today, October 1, 2026, marking the start of Tourism Awareness Month under the theme “Our People, Our Communities, Our Future: Reimagining Tourism Together.”
Minister Henderson highlighted significant growth and milestone accomplishments across the sector, noting that St. Kitts welcomed 116,458 air arrivals through August 31, 2026, alongside 1,031,710 cruise passengers during the successful 2025–2026 season.
Key Highlights & Strategic Updates:
Expanded Air Airlift: Air Canada will commence its seasonal service on October 31, 2026—marking its earliest seasonal start to date.
Global Recognition: St. Kitts earned 11 Scuba Diving Readers’ Choice Awards, reinforcing the island’s position as a premier dive and eco-tourism destination.
Forward-Looking Vision: The Minister detailed plans for the 2026–2027 season, describing it as a vital period of preparation and transition ahead of P&O Cruises’ homeporting and turnaround operations scheduled for 2027.
The press conference was attended by Acting Prime Minister, the Hon. Dr Geoffrey Hanley, alongside key tourism officials, agency heads, and industry stakeholders. Comprehensive operational updates were presented by:
Ms Tivanna Wharton, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism (presenting on behalf of the Ministry and the Urban Development Corporation)
Ms Kelly Fontenelle, CEO of the St. Kitts Tourism Authority (SKTA)
Ms Adeola Moore, CEO of the St. Christopher Air & Sea Ports Authority (SCASPA)
Mrs Melnecia Marshall, Deputy CEO of the SKTA
Mr Slieh Boncamper, Managing Director of the Frigate Bay Development Corporation
Minister Henderson concluded the briefing by extending best wishes to all sector stakeholders, operators, and community partners for a safe, productive, and prosperous 2026–2027 cruise season.
