Belize Tourism Board Launches New National Cruise Tourism Policy Hoping to Boost Revenue

The Belize Tourism Board (BTB) launched a new National Cruise Tourism Policy earlier today. The policy has taken an approach of inclusivity, and is looking to maximize the number of cruise ship passenger arrivals for up to 2.5 million per annum within a 10-year time span. Director of Cruise & Capacity Development, Lloyd Enriquez, said the policy is driven with aim to increase revenue, and the tourism satisfaction.

Despite a decline in cruise ship arrivals, Enriquez says the policy presents a SMART goal approach, and as such the 10-year target is very doable.

The National Cruise Tourism Policy 2023-2033’s vision is to enhance the quality of life for all Belizeans through a competitive, resilient, safe and sustainable cruise tourism sector that delivers world class, modern, enjoyable, unique and authentic visitor experience. As it relates to data, in 2019, the pre-covid cruise arrivals registered at 1.2 million passengers. This year, however, that number stands at 900, 000.