Prime Minister Outlines Strategic Push to Grow Yachting Industry and Expand Skills Training Opportunities
Basseterre, Saint Kitts, January 12, 2026 (PMO) — Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Terrance Drew has outlined a strategic plan to significantly expand the yachting sector in St. Kitts and Nevis, positioning it as a key pillar of economic diversification while creating new skills, business, and employment opportunities for citizens.
Speaking during the first Round Table engagement for 2026, the Prime Minister emphasized that the Government is moving deliberately to ensure that the growth of the yachting industry translates into tangible benefits for local workers, entrepreneurs, and institutions.
Dr. Drew noted that the presence of Safe Harbor, the world’s largest marina operator, has already begun to reshape the maritime landscape of the Federation, with a significant increase in yacht arrivals and interest.
“So far, we have brought in well over 125 yachts in just a short period,” the Prime Minister said, adding that more than 500 additional calls of interest have already been recorded. He described the yachting sector as having the potential to become “even bigger than the cruise sector,” given its demand for specialized services, provisioning, maintenance, and technical support.
To ensure that nationals are equipped to participate meaningfully in the sector, the Prime Minister announced plans for structured collaboration between the yachting industry and Clarence Fitzroy Bryant College (CFBC).
“One of the things I will put to them is can you collaborate with our college to start training for the yachting sector?” the Prime Minister stated, explaining that discussions are underway to introduce targeted courses that prepare young people for careers in marine services, technical trades, and specialized yacht-related professions.
He indicated that the Government’s goal is to begin formal training programmes as early as next year, with cohorts of students receiving practical, industry-aligned instruction that positions them for immediate employment.
The Prime Minister also revealed that discussions are ongoing with private sector partners regarding higher-level activities within the yachting industry, including the possibility of yacht construction and advanced marine services. While noting that negotiations are still in progress, Dr. Drew underscored that the interest being shown reflects confidence in St. Kitts and Nevis as a premier maritime hub.
Beyond economic opportunity, the Prime Minister highlighted additional benefits tied to marina investment, including enhanced water security. He disclosed that Safe Harbor has installed its own desalination facility producing approximately 70,000 gallons of water per day and has indicated a willingness to support national water needs during off-peak yachting periods.
The expansion of the yachting sector forms part of the Government’s broader strategy to build a resilient, diversified economy under the Sustainable Island State Agenda, while opening new pathways for skills development, entrepreneurship, and long-term employment.