Cruise Tourism Advocate Cayman Islands: Ellio Solomon Named Dynamic Leader for ACT

As the new cruise tourism advocate Cayman Islands, Ellio Solomon will lead ACT’s efforts to educate the public on the industry’s impact.

CAYMAN ISLANDS, November 13, 2024 — In a strategic move poised to influence the future of the local cruise industry, the Association for Cruise Tourism (ACT) has appointed Ellio Solomon as its new cruise tourism advocate Cayman Islands. With Solomon at the helm, ACT aims to strengthen the role of cruise tourism as an economic driver and advocate for sustainable growth in the Cayman Islands.

In his new position as cruise tourism advocate Cayman Islands, Solomon—a well-known businessman, former legislator, and community leader—will lead efforts to ensure Caymanians are well-informed on the economic and social contributions of cruise tourism. His appointment comes at a pivotal time, with a referendum on cruise berthing set to coincide with the upcoming General Elections on April 30, 2025.

“I am honored to lead ACT on behalf of the business community and the people of the Cayman Islands,” Solomon said. “We look forward to fostering constructive dialogue, clarifying the socioeconomic benefits of cruise tourism, and addressing any public concerns. My commitment is to ensure that Caymanians have a comprehensive, factual understanding of how the cruise industry supports our economy and enhances our community.”

With a background that spans both public service and private sector innovation, Solomon brings a wealth of experience to ACT. As a former Member of the Legislative Assembly for George Town from 2009 to 2013, he has firsthand experience addressing the needs of Caymanians. His tenure as Ministerial Councillor for Housing and the Port saw him spearhead transformative e-government initiatives, helping to modernize government operations. Notably, Solomon’s 2010 Pension Withdrawal Amendment enabled many Caymanians to achieve homeownership, cementing his reputation as a community-driven leader.

In addition to his legislative work, Solomon currently serves as chairman of the Cayman Turtle Conservation and Education Centre Limited, a role that highlights his dedication to Cayman’s natural and economic resources. He is also a trained electronic engineer, IT and human resources professional, and media entrepreneur.

Solomon’s vision for ACT includes reinforcing the organization’s long-term commitment to promoting the cruise tourism industry. “By fostering informed discussions and engaging with the public, ACT is dedicated to ensuring that the contributions of the cruise industry are well understood and valued by the Caymanian community, not just for the upcoming election but over the long term,” he added. He emphasized that ACT’s membership-driven structure, which includes tour operators, merchants, restaurants, bars, and transport providers, places it in a unique position to advocate for the sustainable growth of cruise tourism in the islands.

As ACT prepares to unveil its future plans in the coming months, the organization is keen to position itself as a leading voice for the cruise industry. The association’s initiatives are expected to align with the growing interest in the economic benefits of cruise tourism, particularly as Cayman’s economy continues to recover and evolve.