Protect Our Future (POF) Celebrates Cayman’s Historic “NO” Vote in the Cruise Berthing Referendum
Youth-led movement praises environmental victory protecting George Town Harbour’s coral reef George Town, Cayman Islands – May 13, 2025
On April 30th, the Cayman Islands made history. With over 64% of voters saying NO, the people rejected the cruise berthing project that threatened one of our island’s most precious natural treasures: George Town Harbour.
This reef system is part of a Mission Blue Hope Spot—a special designation for marine areas that are vital to the health of our oceans. These spots are protected and celebrated around the world for their rich marine biodiversity, and George Town Harbour is one of two such renowned Hope Spots in the Cayman Islands. For many Caymanians, this reef system is more than just a body of water; it’s where they connect with part of their home that would forever define them. Home to coral reefs and vibrant marine life, it’s a place that holds cultural, ecological, and emotional value for generations of Caymanians.
The proposed cruise berthing facility was a proposal of two piers capable of docking four large cruise ships simultaneously, including two Oasis-class vessels. This proposal was promoted as a means of “promoting cruise tourism”; however, the consequences of this project fall much more sinister than just a boost in cruise tourism. The proposal required extensive dredging, approximately 22 acres of seabed in the harbor, ultimately leading to the loss of about 12 acres of coral reef, displacing Cayman’s diverse marine life. Environmental experts such as Nadia Hardie (executive director of the Cayman Islands National Trust) warned that due to the sediment resuspension that would have occurred, it could have degraded water quality, destroying the beauty so deeply ingrained in the culture and hearts of Caymanians.
For years, Protect Our Future (POF) has been speaking out against this project due to risks threatening reefs, water quality, marine species, and our long-term future; inspiring impactful innovators such as Dejea Lyons, an alumni of POF known for winning the Princess Diana Award for her environmental activism in 2022. From raising public awareness to meeting directly with policymakers, Protect Our Future (POF) demonstrates the powerful impact youth activism can have in creating real change. The vote was more than a decision on development—it was a vote to protect Cayman’s identity and future.
Just before the referendum, young people, environmental groups, and divers came together for a powerful underwater demonstration at Eden Rock, holding up a “Vote NO” banner beneath the waves. The images captured during that event showed exactly what we were fighting to protect—and helped remind voters of the beauty at stake.
We would like to thank a host of organizations for their support and collaboration—Cruise Port Referendum Cayman, Vote No, Eden Rock, Sustainable Cayman, Plastic Free Cayman, Protect Our Future, Mission Blue, and Dr. Sylvia Earle. This effort was only possible because our community stood together, unified in our love for the ocean. This is a major milestone, and Protect Our Future’s determination to preserve Cayman’s natural heritage remains unfaltering. We look forward to working with decision makers to create sustainable tourism strategies that not only benefit our economy, but also our environment and people.
This referendum marks one of the most important environmental wins in Cayman’s history. Not just as an environmental win, but as a powerful reminder that when a community stands together, it can protect what truly matters.
Quote: Zara Majid (15), Protect Our Future Leader —
“We didn’t just vote no to a proposed project. We voted yes to our reefs, yes to our future, and yes to hope. This is what happens when people—especially youth—believe their voices matter.”
Quote: Connor Childs (22), Protect Our Future —
“We’re not choosing between jobs and nature—we’re saving both.”
We’ve attached photos from the Eden Rock solidarity swim to show the spirit and strength of this movement. All underwater photos are credited to @jd_345.
Data:
Date of Referendum: April 30, 2025
Voter Turnout: Over 64% voted NO
Organizations Involved: CPR Cayman, Vote No, Eden Rock, Sustainable Cayman, Plastic Free Cayman, Protect Our Future, Mission Blue, Sylvia Earle
Primary Concern: Environmental destruction of coral reef systems and marine habitats, including George Town Harbour’s status as a Mission Blue Hope Spot
Bio:
Protect Our Future (POF) is a youth-led environmental advocacy group in the Cayman Islands (Cayman International School) dedicated to preserving our islands’ ecosystems as well as educating the public, in hopes of inspiring future generations to foster a sustainable future.
POF
https://www.instagram.com/protectourfuture.eco
