Tourism in SKN On Progressive Path Minister Henderson Reports

St. Kitts and Nevis is making steady progress towards becoming a year-round tourism destination, according to Minister of Tourism, Labour and Employment, Marsha Henderson. Speaking at a press conference on 22nd July, 2025, Minister Henderson outlined a broad range of achievements and strategic initiatives designed to strengthen the Federation’s tourism sector, boost employment, and expand critical infrastructure.

The Minister began by highlighting one of the sector’s most significant transformations: shifting tourism from a seasonal model to a more sustainable, year-round framework. She pointed to full passenger loads on incoming flights in July—traditionally an off-peak period—as evidence of this shift.

“Usually in July, the seats aren’t filled, but the flight was filled to capacity,” Henderson said, attributing the increase to enhanced marketing campaigns, increased airlift, and improved tourism offerings. She noted that flights have remained full well into August, with September and October now identified as the only softer months in the calendar.

To support continued momentum, Henderson revealed that legacy carriers such as Delta, United, and American Airlines are returning in November, reinforcing air connectivity ahead of the winter tourism season. “All the carriers are coming back,” she confirmed, following meetings with airline partners.

In tandem with airlift improvements, the Ministry has prioritised service quality across the sector. Henderson announced that over 500 applications were received for new taxi and tour operators. That number was narrowed to 197, in keeping with existing regulations. Training for successful applicants is scheduled to begin at the end of August and continue through October.

“We’ve been meeting with all stakeholders,” the Minister said, underscoring the importance of professionalising service delivery to improve the visitor experience. Admission into the sector will ultimately depend on the outcome of the training programme.

Henderson also addressed the urgent need to expand the Federation’s accommodation stock. “We need more rooms. We can’t just tell the flights to come,” she said, adding that a room stock strategy has been finalised and is ready for Cabinet review. The plan includes efforts to attract investors and complete stalled hotel developments—some of which include properties with as many as 350 rooms. She cited the accommodation shortage during the 2025 St. Kitts Music Festival as a clear indicator of the need for expansion.

Henderson also praised the hardworking teams at the St. Christopher Air and Sea Ports Authority, the Frigate Bay Development Corporation, the Urban Development Corporation, the St. Kitts Tourism Authority, and her own Ministry. “I want to take the opportunity to thank them for their hard work towards the tourism industry,” she said.

With clear objectives and cross-agency collaboration, St. Kitts and Nevis is setting a strategic course for long-term, inclusive tourism growth—aiming not only to attract more visitors but to build a more resilient and dynamic industry that benefits all.


Stay informed with the latest news and updates from SKN Source! Click here to join our WhatsApp channel and get updates straight to your mobile. Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook for more stories and insights!

Be the first to comment on "Tourism in SKN On Progressive Path Minister Henderson Reports"

Leave a Reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.