The Aruba Tourism Authority (A.T.A.), in collaboration with the Aruba Ports Authority NV (APA), successfully organized the Aquila Training Week 2025, which took place from September 22 to 26. The week consisted of a multi-day program designed to improve service excellence, responsible tourism, and collaboration between the tourism and cruise sectors in Aruba.
Aquila’s Center for Cruise Excellence, the official training partner of the Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA), conducted the various training sessions. Led by internationally recognized trainers Beth Hatt and Ambra Attus, the program combined interactive workshops, practical experiences, and field visits to ensure that participants gained valuable skills to continue enhancing the visitor experience in Aruba.
Day 1: The week began aboard the Oasis of the Seas, where representatives from A.T.A., APA NV, tour operators, and travel agencies learned directly from the Shore Excursions Manager and Environmental Manager of the ship. The sessions provided valuable insights into improving the guest experience while maintaining sustainable practices.
Day 2: The training continued on land with a diverse group of participants, including employees from APA NV and A.T.A., tour operators, vendors, travel agencies, shops, restaurants, the Immigration Department, AruTram, and KPA. Topics covered included:
() Developing excellent service skills.
() Empowering guests to practice responsible tourism.
() Using diversity to improve service.
() Effective strategies for managing difficult situations.
(*) Developing potential for personal excellence.
Later in the day, a special coaching session was held for tour operators, focusing on excellence. Topics included innovation and opportunities in shore excursions, optimal operations, and crisis planning. The final presentation of the day focused on Return on Investment (ROI).
Day 3: The final day concluded with a cultural visit to San Nicolas. Local art ambassador Tito Bolivar gave an inspiring presentation on murals, galleries, and the continuous development of the district. The immersive experience emphasized the importance of integrating local culture and community into Aruba’s tourism product.
Looking Ahead: The Aruba Tourism Authority and Aruba Ports Authority NV reaffirm their commitment to continue investing in training and capacity development for industry partners. Future initiatives will focus on sustainability, service excellence, tour guide certification, risk training, and aligning programs with the needs of cruise passengers and local residents.
A.T.A. and APA NV expressed their gratitude to all partners who dedicated their time to invest in professional development, strengthening Aruba’s ability to provide world-class experiences. They also expressed sincere appreciation to Aquila for their expertise and guidance. Special thanks were given to Royal Caribbean Group for their warm hospitality during the training aboard one of their ships. “When you value Aruba, Aruba values you back.
Photo Credits: https://diario.aw/categories/noticia/general/un-siman-di-entrenamento-pa-eleva-excelencia-di-servicio-y-sostenibilidad-na-aruba
