Partnership aims to expand training for operators and guides in sustainable cruise tourism
CANADA — The Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) has joined forces with the Aquila Center for Cruise Excellence to strengthen sustainable cruise tourism through expanded training for tour operators and guides.
The initiative will promote the development and delivery of sustainable, high-quality tourism experiences at cruise destinations, equipping frontline operators with the tools to improve guest satisfaction while fostering destination growth. Both organizations will promote each other’s training programs at preferred rates, making professional development more accessible across the industry.
Expanding sustainability in cruise tourism
The collaboration builds on a 2024 milestone when Aquila introduced the Excellence in Sustainable Destination Experiences program, designed in alignment with the GSTC Framework. Developed by cruise operators for cruise operators, the training provides practical strategies to improve the sustainability and quality of shore excursions, filling a gap that industry stakeholders have long highlighted.
Beth Hatt, founder of Aquila, said the partnership underscores a shared mission to make sustainability achievable for those working on the ground. “We’re excited to work with GSTC to bring global sustainability principles into practical application for shore excursions operators,” Hatt said. “Our team knows these challenges well; we’re not just trainers, we’re operators too. That’s why this partnership feels so natural.”
GSTC CEO Randy Durband emphasized the practical benefits of the collaboration. “Our partnership with Aquila connects GSTC Standards with the practical realities of cruise tourism. Together, we can empower cruise tourism professionals with the knowledge, tools, and confidence to deliver sustainable experiences that benefit destinations, communities, and guests,” he said.
Future collaboration in training
The two organizations plan to collaborate on participant feedback, shared communications, and co-branded training opportunities. These initiatives aim to encourage continuous improvement throughout the tourism value chain, ensuring benefits for cruise destinations and the communities that support them.
For continued coverage of sustainable cruise tourism and other global travel news, follow Unitedpac St Lucia News — your trusted source for breaking stories in St Lucia, the Caribbean, and worldwide.
