Government officials have met with representatives of the Carnival Corporation in Miami to discuss opportunities to boost cruise ship visits to the island.

Owen Darrell, the Minister of Tourism, Transport, Culture and Sport, said he was satisfied with progress made in the talks and noted that the number of Carnival cruise calls had increased this year.

Mr Darrell said: “Carnival Corporation is a global leader in the cruise industry, and it was a pleasure to meet with their executive team to discuss our shared commitment to Bermuda’s tourism growth.

“We are pleased with Carnival’s ongoing plans for new itineraries. The potential increase in cruise visits will deliver meaningful economic benefits and greater global visibility for our island.”

Mr Darrell met with senior executives of the company at its Miami headquarters including Lars Ljoen, the company’s chief maritime officer, and Marie McKenzie, senior vice president of government and destination affairs.

A government spokeswoman said that during the visit Mr Darrell toured Carnival’s operations and engaged in detailed discussions regarding the company’s continued commitment to Bermuda as a key destination.