The British Virgin Islands (BVI), an idyllic archipelago of around 60 Caribbean islands, are renowned for their beauty and tourism, attracting nearly a million visitors in 2023.
However, the locals have shown remarkable resilience, especially in the aftermath of Hurricane Irma in 2017, which caused $3.6 billion in damages and significant loss of life.
The recovery was spearheaded by the BVI Ports Authority (BVIPA), essential for both importing recovery materials and revitalising tourism.
Under the leadership of Akeem Pickering, appointed Managing Director in November 2023, BVIPA has pursued strategic growth and modernisation, including port expansions and technological upgrades.
The Authority now manages seven seaports and has significantly increased its cruise passenger numbers, setting a record in 2023. Future plans include enhancing services, supporting local employment, and maintaining a strong commitment to excellence in the maritime industry.