TCB wants to put residents at the heart of Bonaire’s tourism future
KRALENDIJK – Tourism Corporation Bonaire (TCB) presented its vision for the future of tourism on Bonaire during the Bonaire Tourism Summit 2026. Sustainability, residents’ well-being, air connectivity, cruise tourism and technology were the main themes of the summit.
TCB director Elesiër Angel presented the 2027-2037 strategic plan. According to him, the plan is not just about visitor numbers, but also about preserving local values, respecting ecological carrying capacity and pursuing quality growth. To take residents’ views into account in tourism planning, TCB is also conducting research into their opinions.
Angel stressed that realizing the long-term vision also requires a reassessment of how tourism is financed and where investments are made. He called on the government, the business community, residents and other organizations to share responsibility for the future of tourism.
Various local, regional and international experts spoke at the summit about the development of tourism. Marie McKenzie of Carnival Corporation addressed the relationship between cruise lines and destinations. Muryad de Bruin of the Curaçao Tourist Board explained how Curaçao is evolving from destination promotion to a broader approach to tourism management.
The use of artificial intelligence in the hotel sector, Bonaire’s air connections and cooperation between the public and private sectors were also discussed. BONHATA director Veroesjka de Windt highlighted the perspective of the accommodation sector, while entrepreneur Karel Visser discussed the role of local businesses in tourism.
Harbor Master Günther Flanegin closed the program with an update on cruise tourism. Among other things, he discussed the number of visits and the relationship with the cruise lines. He also pointed to the need to keep growth in balance with Bonaire’s capacity.
The central message of the summit: the future of tourism on Bonaire depends not only on more visitors, but also on sustainability, accessibility, technology and the impact on the local community.
