Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1535167
60 B M & T ••• May/June 2025 ••• www.blackmeetingsandtourism.com CARNIVAL CORPORATION REINFORCES CARIBBEAN COMMITMENT DURING SEATRADE CRUISE GLOBAL Marie McKenzie with U.S. Virgin Islands Commissioner of Tourism Joseph Boschulte Carnival Corporation & plc, the world's largest cruise company, conclud- ed a successful week of engagement at Seatrade Cruise Global 2025, reinforcing its commitment to collaborative growth and long-term investment across the Caribbean. The company's leadership was prominently featured in high-level panels and destination meetings through- out the week, with a strong emphasis on regional partnership, sustainable devel- opment and inclusive leadership. A highlight of Carnival Corporation's presence at Seatrade was the participa- tion of Marie McKenzie, Senior Vice President of Government & Destination Affairs and Chair of the FCCA Operations Committee, who took part in two marquee events on Monday, April 7. In a compelling 1:1 interview with U.S. Virgin Islands Commissioner of Tourism Joseph Boschulte, McKenzie explored the evolving future of cruise tourism in the Caribbean. The session touched on the power of partnerships, the importance of enhancing guest expe- riences and the shared responsibility of creating economic opportunities that benefit destinations and communities alike. From left: Anna Nash, President at Explora Journeys; Marie McKenzie; Roberta Jacoby, President at Jacoby Advisors; and Dondra Ritzenthaler, CEO at Azamara Cruises Later that afternoon, McKenzie joined a distinguished group of female cruise executives for the panel "Career Stories from Women at the Helm". The session offered candid insights into lead- ership journeys, challenges overcome and strategies for growth within the cruise industry. McKenzie's personal reflections inspired attendees to embrace their unique paths and contribute meaningful- ly to the sector's future. "It was a privilege to engage with our partners across the Caribbean and share in a week of collaboration, learning and inspiration. The future of cruising in our region depends on the strength of our relationships, and Seatrade continues to be a platform where those bonds grow stronger," said McKenzie. Throughout the week, Carnival Corporation held a series of strategic meetings with Caribbean governments and destination leaders to reaffirm its dedication to regional collaboration. From The Bahamas to Bermuda, and from St. Kitts & Nevis to St. Vincent & the Grenadines, executives met with representatives from over 15 nations across the Caribbean to strengthen ties and discuss shared priorities. These engagements served as valu- able opportunities to build upon long- standing relationships, align on future goals, and reinforce Carnival Corporation's commitment to working alongside national governments and tourism stakeholders. Whether exploring operational enhancements, tourism development or community engage- ment, the focus remained on cultivating mutually beneficial partnerships that support the region's continued growth as a premier cruise destination. For more information about Carnival Corporation's commitment to Carib- bean tourism development, please visit carnivalcorp.com. ABOUT CARNIVAL CORPORATION & PLC Carnival Corporation & plc is the largest global cruise company and among the largest leisure travel compa- nies, with a portfolio of world-class cruise lines – AIDA Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, Costa Cruises, Cunard, Holland America Line, P&O Cruises, Princess Cruises, and Seabourn. For more information, please visit www.carnivalcorp.com, www.aida.de, www.carnival.com, www.=costa=cruis- es.com, www.cunard.com, www.hollan- damerica.com, www.pocruises.com, ww- princess.com, and www.seabourn.com. To learn more about Carnival Corporation's purpose and their positive impact worldwide on people and the planet, go to www.carnivalcorp.com- /impact/. C R U I S E N E W S Marie McKenzie with U.S. Virgin Explora Journeys; Marie McKenzie; Roberta Jacoby, President at Jacoby Advisors; and Dondra Ritzenthaler, CEO at Azamara Cruises From left: Anna Nash, President at standing relationships, align on future