A memorandum of understanding between the government of Antigua and Barbuda and Royal Caribbean Group has been signed, with a jobs fair due to be held next month in the capital St. John’s.

Vacancies will be open to nationals and residents of Antigua and Barbuda in positions including engineering, operations, catering, and front-of-house roles including entertainers and casino staff. 

The islands’ minister of tourism and investment Charles Fernandez and Royal Caribbean Group vice president of government relations, Americas, Russell Benford signed the agreement.

Fernandez said: “Royal Caribbean is one of the iconic brands that is part of the foundation of cruise tourism in the Caribbean, and this initiative will not only see a huge cadre of our tourism professionals become gainfully employed while being ambassadors for our country, but it will further strengthen the partnership between the government of Antigua and Barbuda and Royal Caribbean. It’s a win-win solution for all of us.”

Benford added: “The relationship between Royal Caribbean and the government of Antigua and Barbuda goes back well over 30 years.

“We have supported each other through the most challenging times and signing this agreement demonstrates the strength of our partnership and will result in boosting the tourism economy.”