Protect Our Future (POF)

This week celebrates a landmark victory for the Cayman Islands’ environment and heritage, capping a years-long campaign, with youth voices at the forefront. In the 30 April 2025 referendum, 63.66% of voters cast a resounding “NO” against the proposed cruise berthing facility, with only 28.75% voting “YES.” This decisive outcome should surely halt plans for large-scale cruise ship piers in George Town Harbour, protecting Cayman’s Hope Spot, and solidifying a win for marine biodiversity and a sustainable future.

This result is more than just a policy recommendation – it is a triumph for Cayman’s rich heritage and the vibrant marine ecosystems of our islands. By rejecting the cruise port project, the people of Cayman have chosen to safeguard our coral reefs, fisheries, and a cultural legacy of environmental stewardship. The referendum outcome marks the culmination of a longstanding fight led by key community voices, including many of our youth leaders, demonstrating the power of grassroots advocacy and intergenerational discourse in shaping the nation’s future.

Protect Our Future acknowledges the hard work of countless community allies, non-profit organisations, young advocates, and volunteers who rallied for years to “Vote No.” With the new government taking shape, and port plans now set aside, POF is calling for unity as the country moves forward. The group urges the new National Coalition for Caymanians government, the tourism industry, local businesses and community leaders to come together to develop sustainable tourism strategies that respect the environment and honor the will of the people. The Cayman Islands can thrive with a tourism model that enhances the visitor experience without selling pieces of our islands to top bidders or compromising natural treasures, and this vote is a mandate to pursue that path.

Former POF leader and university student, Lilly Haug watched with excitement from the UK as she finished up her first year of studies. Like many young Caymanians, she was thrilled with the result. “Hopefully, now the memory of this success and its rationale, will be retained for future generations.”

Chloe Bentick-Lalli, Mission Blue Hope Spot Champion for George Town Harbour and former POF leader, had been working tirelessly leading up to the election. “I am deeply proud to have stood alongside so many passionate individuals in defense of Georgetown Harbour and Eden Rock. The success of the referendum is a powerful testament to what we can achieve when we come together, educate, and stand firm in our values. Our reefs have a voice, because of our actions and I hope this voice helps sustainably shape Cayman’s future as we grow together.”

Dejea Lyons, Princess Diana Legacy and Captain Planet Young Superhero of Earth Award winner, organised the Protect Our Future’s first port protest at Eden Rock back in 2019. “As a generational Caymanian, I am so proud of our Caymanian people for voting no to cruise birthing infrastructure; an outcome that affirms the values enshrined in our constitution and serves the greater good. It is now time to turn our focus to sustainable tourism, ensuring the long-term harmony of our economy and environment.”

Protect Our Future thanks every voter, volunteer, and organization who lent their voices to this cause. This is truly a victory belonging to the entire Cayman community. This success gives Cayman an opportunity to embrace sustainable development and secure a future for generations to come.