TCI News
Press Release: Chairman’s Luncheon at Beaches Turks and Caicos
#Providenciales, October 31, 2018 – Turks and Caicos -Beaches Resorts has reiterated its commitment to the growth and development of the tourism sector in Turks and Caicos, and has been hailed as an important cog in the economic wheels of the TCI by the island’s leadership.
The event was a luncheon presentation on October 17th hosted by Sandals Chairman the Hon. Gordon ‘Butch’ Stewart and Deputy Chairman Adam Stewart with key presentations from several senior company officials.
Sandals CEO Gebhard Rainer was also present along with a powerful contingent from the marketing organisation Unique Vacations led by CEO Tammy Gonzales and including Senior VP of Sales and Marketing Gary Sadler and Managing Director of Beaches TCI Don Dagenais.
The luncheon was attended by Governor John Freeman, TCI Premier Sharlene Cartwright-Robinson, other Government Ministers and several stakeholders from both the public and private sector.
Presentations focused on the journey of Beaches since its launch 21 years ago, and ongoing global marketing and promotional campaign by Sandals that has helped the TCI become one of the most sought after holiday destinations.
Deputy Chairman of Sandals Adam Stewart highlighted the constant investment over the years which has seen the addition of several themed ‘villages’, increasing the key count from 100 when the hotel was first acquired to over 750 today. He revealed that Beaches wishes to further deepen its investment with the addition of even more rooms, as well as expanding the water park and other amenities.
The Deputy Chairman noted that all sectors have benefited from the linkages that have been created as a result of the activity generated by Beaches, including significant improvement in airlift. He made special note of the fact that Sandals dominated all the major trade and travel events in the United Kingdom this year, taking top honours at the Travel Trade Gazette Awards, the Travel Weekly Globe Awards and Caribbean World, which also named Mr. Gordon ‘Butch’ Stewart ‘Hotelier of the Year’. It rounded off a proud year for the company which was also voted Best All-Inclusive Company at the World Travel Awards for the 25th consecutive time.
On hand were a number of partners including taxi drivers, tour operators and crafts persons who spoke of the enormous positive impact Sandals has had on their businesses.
In addressing the attendees Governor Freeman complimented Sandals for the speed with which it had the hotel open for business after the damage done by Hurricane Irma.
“What is key is the amount of commitment shown and what happens in the engine, the engine of the economy, and this Beaches Resort is a really important part of the engine of the economy of these islands.”
Premier Sharlene Cartwright-Robinson recognised Beaches for its financial relevance to the economy. The TCI 
Premier noted that during the months of repair following the hurricane, there was a marked negative impact on treasury revenues. She too commended the hotel chain’s Chairman for keeping his promise to the people of the TCI to have the resort up and running within 99 days, a deadline she admits even she had doubts about.
“But the day came and Mr. Stewart delivered on his promise, and Beaches was open for business in time for the vital winter season.”
The Sandals Chairman also assured the Premier that the TCI has always been a special place to him and his family, going on to say he was pleased Beaches has been able to help develop the vital tourism sector through direct contributions to the economy, the provision of jobs and training as well as continued enhancement of the hotel. Mr. Stewart noted that success is built on strong partnerships and a mutual understanding of what it takes to get the job done.
Press Release: Sandals Resorts International
TCI News
Turks and Caicos Islands Reaffirms Status as Premier Beach and Romance Destination at World Travel Awards
Turks and Caicos, September 21, 2025 – On Sunday, September 21st, 2025, the United States Coast Guard Southeast (USCG), working
in coordination with the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force (RT&CIPF) Marine Branch, the TCI Regiment, and the TCI Border Force, intercepted a vessel carrying 103 migrants bound for Providenciales.
The suspicious vessel, first tracked by the USCG, was stopped at sea and later secured by the Sea Guardian vessel, which towed it safely to South Dock Marina. Upon arrival, the migrants were disembarked and handed over to the TCI Border Force for processing.
A breakdown of those on board confirmed:
- 75 males (including two minors)
- 28 females (including two minors)
This interception marks the 18th such operation in 2025, bringing the total number of migrants detained this year to 1,510. The RT&CIPF thanks the USCG and local agencies for their close cooperation, noting that this successful outcome demonstrates the effectiveness of layered security measures protecting the Turks and Caicos Islands. The Force reminds the public that illegal migration is dangerous and life-threatening, and violations of the law will not be tolerated.
Anyone with information on illegal migration is urged to contact the nearest police station, call 911, the Serious Crime Unit at 231-1842, or report anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-8477 or via the P3 app.
Photos Courtesy: Turks and Caicos Islands Border Force
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