Portside Conversations

What does it take to keep the British Virgin Islands' ports safe, secure, and operating smoothly every day?In this episode of Portside Conversations, we sit down with Dave Smith, Security Manager at the BVI Ports Authority. Together, we explore how port security has evolved over the years, the critical role security plays in safeguarding people and goods, and the challenges of protecting one of the Territory's most important gateways.From advances in technology and international security standards to emergency preparedness and professional excellence, Dave Smith shares valuable insights from a career spent protecting the ports and supporting the maritime industry. He also reflects on the people behind the uniform, the importance of leadership, and what the future holds for port security in an ever-changing world.Whether you're interested in maritime operations, security, leadership, or the stories of the people who keep our ports moving, this episode offers a fascinating look behind the scenes of an essential service that often goes unnoticed.

What does it take to keep an island nation connected, moving, and thriving? In this episode of Portside Conversations, we sit down with Romeo Titley, Marine Supervisor, who brings over two decades of maritime expertise and service to the BVI Ports Authority.From their early days on the waterfront to helping shape the modern port system we know today, Romeo share his personal journey, reflect on the evolution of the Territory's ports, and provide a rare behind-the-scenes look at the essential work of Marine Services. The conversation explores how they supports safe navigation, vessel operations, port development, environmental stewardship, and the seamless movement of people and goods throughout the Virgin Islands.Through stories of service, leadership, innovation, and teamwork, listeners will gain a deeper appreciation for the men and women who work around the clock to ensure our ports remain safe, efficient, and ready for the future.Discover how Marine Services serves as the backbone of port operations and why its role is critical to the continued growth and development of the British Virgin Islands.

In Episode 6 of Portside Conversations, we sit downwith Vance Lewis, CEO of Tortola Pier Park, to explore the vision,leadership, and partnerships shaping one of the British Virgin Islands’ premiercruise destinations.From the growth and development of Tortola Pier Park to theimportance of collaboration. This episode highlights the vision of the BVIPorts Authority, how strong public-private partnerships contribute to anenhanced visitor experience and key mindsets for the success of the gateway forcruisers. Vance also shares insights on the evolving cruise tourism landscapeand what the future holds for the Territory.Tune in for an engaging discussion on progress, innovation,and pride in the VI’s tourism sector.

In this episode of Portside Conversations, we sit down with Patti Romney of the Romasco Group for a compelling look at the roots and remarkable growth of the cruise tourism industry in the British Virgin Islands. Patti shares how the journey began with her father’s pioneering vision, laying the foundation for what has become a vital pillar of the territory’s tourism economy.From humble beginnings to a thriving, world-class cruise destination, she reflects on the evolution of the industry, the partnerships built along the way, and the lasting benefits the Virgin Islands have gained—economically, socially, and culturally.Tune in to learn how far we’ve come, the lessons from the past, and where the future of cruise tourism in the Virgin Islands is headed.

In this episode, we explore the early foundations of goods importation in the British Virgin Islands and the critical role played by pioneering agents who helped shape the territory’s trade and maritime landscape. We sat down with Chris Haycraft of Island Shipping to reflect on the journey from the early days at the docks to the modern shipping and agency operations we know today honouring a legacy that continues to support the BVI’s growth.