Taking Soca To The World
Soca on the Seas was officially launched on Monday 23rd May, 2016 at the VIP Lounge, Queen’s Park Savannah. This launch was a collaborative effort of the Ministry of Community Development, Culture and the Arts and the Ministry of Tourism. Soca on the Seas was conceptualized by Juliana Fermin who wanted to expand Trinidad and Tobago’s culture beyond its shores in a non-traditional way. The project is a cruise that will take place from 28th October to 31st of October 2016.
Juliana Fermin, Director, Soca on the Seas, the Honourable Shamfa Cudjoe – Minister of Tourism, Dr. the Honourable Nyan Gadsby-Dolly- Minister of Community Development, Culture and the Arts, with members of the Santana Television series.
Dr. the Honourable Nyan Gadsby-Dolly, Minister of Community Development, Culture and the Arts gave the feature address at the launch. The Minister explained, “Our cultural industries create value, stimulate the economy and create growth. Soca on the Seas is seen as having great potential for investment, as it supports the development of cultural tourism with a combined showcasing of our music, fashion, carnival and entertainment.”
She further stated, “The Ministry regards this initiative as a means of promoting the commercial viability and vision of our creative and cultural sector, while lifting the Trinidad and Tobago culture to world class standards.”
Sailor dancers perform during the Soca on the Seas Media Launch
In agreement was the Honourable Shamfa Cudjoe, Minister of Tourism, who expressed that the view of this initiative will, “Satisfy the insatiable desire of Tourism and Travel for tourists that are captivated by our culture. This is what makes us dynamic and unique.”
Minister Cudjoe encouraged persons to look at the bigger picture, as such a partnership will “attract trade linkages at all levels, generate economic activity and foreign exchange, with an overall goal of turning that one time visitor to a long-term one”.
Soca on the Seas will be from 28th October to 31st October, 2016 on board the Royal Caribbean – Enchantment of the Seas at a cost of $900 USD per person for an inside cabin and $1,333 USD per person for a Junior Suite. These prices are based on double occupancy and includes all meals, room service, accommodation, tips, taxes, local and foreign entertainment and premium unlimited drinks.
The evening’s activity was hosted by Nikki Crosby, with a cross section of leading media houses and soca artistes present. The major highlights were the performances by Blaxx and KI.
