The Caribbean Tourism Organisation (CTO) is putting the final touches to one of the most eagerly anticipated nights in the UK travel calendar, the Caribbean Summer Ball 2026.
Travel Gossip is this year’s media partner for the event, which takes place in London on 17 June – and some lucky agents will be taking part in all the fun, after winning tickets in a competition.
The agents will join other industry guests for an unforgettable evening including a St Kitts-inspired three-course dinner, drinks, live entertainment, and the chance to win even prizes.
Several raffle and auction prizes will be available on the night, including a stay at the Park Hyatt St Kitts Christophe Harbour, paired with British Airways flights for two.
CTO Chapter UK and Europe Chair Colin Pegler said: “You know summer has truly arrived when it’s time for the Caribbean Summer Ball. Think dazzling hospitality, vibrant energy, exceptional food, and fantastic company – all set within the unforgettable atmosphere of The Underglobe at Shakespeare’s Globe in the heart of London”.
CTO Chapter Director, Florian Valmy-Devillers mentioned: “We cannot wait to welcome our valued travel agent colleagues for what promises to be another unmissable celebration of the Caribbean, with all funds raised supporting the CTO Foundation. Congratulations to all the winning agents on securing their place at one of the travel industry’s most eagerly awaited events of the summer.”
St Kitts is the headline destination at the Caribbean Summer Ball 2026.
What makes the Caribbean truly special is its unrivalled diversity. Few regions in the world can offer such a wide variety of experiences within a single destination portfolio.
The Caribbean is far more than sun, sea and sand. It is a collection of more than 30 unique destinations, each with its own culture, heritage, cuisine, landscapes and personality. Between the English, French, Spanish and Dutch speaking destinations, travellers can enjoy luxury resorts, authentic cultural experiences, adventure tourism, wellness retreats, sailing holidays, world-class diving, culinary discoveries, music festivals, eco-tourism and multi-island itineraries, often within the same trip.
The region also benefits from excellent air connectivity from the UK and Europe, year-round appeal and a tourism product that caters to virtually every traveller segment, from honeymooners and families to luxury travellers, solo adventurers and cruise passengers.
Few destinations can match the Caribbean’s ability to combine world-class beaches with rainforests, volcanoes, waterfalls, hiking trails, marine adventures and rich cultural experiences. The region’s blend of languages, traditions, music, gastronomy, and history creates an authenticity that travellers increasingly seek. We strongly encourage agents to promote the many People-to-People programmes available in several destinations.
For travel agents, the Caribbean represents an exceptional sales opportunity. It is a destination with strong repeat visitation, high customer satisfaction and a breadth of product that allows agents to tailor holidays to almost any client profile or budget.
Simply put, the Caribbean is not one destination; it is a world of destinations, experiences and stories, all connected by the warmth of its people and the spirit of the region.
About St Kitts
St Kitts is an enchanting gem nestled in the eastern Caribbean. With its stunning landscapes, pristine beaches, vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, abundant activities, diverse accommodations, and warm, friendly people, St Kitts offers an unparalleled escape for visitors.
Getting to St Kitts is straightforward, with twice-weekly direct flights from London Gatwick with British Airways. Additionally, an increasing number of cruise ships are visiting the island, making it easily accessible for travellers. Virgin Atlantic has also established an interline agreement with Inter-Caribbean, allowing UK visitors to fly to St Kitts with ease. From November 2027, P&O Cruises will add St Kitts as a home port in its Caribbean fly-cruise programme, further enhancing accessibility.
St Kitts boasts a wide range of accommodations to suit every need, but it does not feature any all-inclusive hotels. This makes it an excellent destination for those seeking authentic experiences. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture, savour traditional cuisine, and connect with the friendly locals.
Once on the island, visitors will discover a plethora of activities, from exhilarating water sports to serene hikes through the rainforest. From the rolling mountains to the tranquil Caribbean blue, adventure awaits. Guests can climb misty rainforest trails, zip-line through lush greenery, or traverse the volcanic terrain on an ATV. For those seeking relaxation, they can drift out in a dinghy or snorkel beneath the surface of crystal-clear waters. Everyone is invited to create unforgettable memories in St Kitts!
Throughout the year, St Kitts hosts a variety of events, ensuring there is always something exciting happening. From cultural festivals to gourmet dining experiences, visitors are truly spoilt for choice.
In March, the Cross Channel Swim race, attracts over 300 competitors, while June features a vibrant music festival showcasing both local and international artists—a brilliant celebration of culture and music. July is Restaurant Month, when eateries across the island offer an array of delectable dishes highlighting two must-have ingredients. This year’s ingredients are passion fruit and carrot! December brings Sugar Mas, a fantastic carnival that fills the streets of Basseterre with colour and joy.
St Kitts is waiting to share its treasures with visitors, so come and discover this extraordinary destination.
“The travel trade holds immense significance for the St Kitts Tourism Authority, and we sincerely appreciate the continuous support for our destination,” said Chelcie Lewis, Sales and Marketing Consultant.
“In recognition of this, we have introduced the SKY programme, ‘St Kitts Your Way,’ which offers reduced accommodation rates for agents wishing to explore our island, additionally, anyone who logs their bookings to St Kitts on www.StKittsspecialist.com will receive £50 in Love2shop vouchers. Sponsoring the Caribbean Summer Ball is yet another way for us to express our gratitude.
“We are excited to see everyone at the Ball.”
St Kitts facts
Capital: Basseterre
Nickname: The Sugar City
Currency: Eastern Caribbean dollar and USD
Year-round tropical climate
Drive on left hand side of the road
Time difference to UK is five hours
Airport code:
SKB Population: 40,000
The Caribbean Summer Ball 2026 takes place on Wednesday 17 June 2026 at The Underglobe, at Shakespeare’s Globe, London, from 6pm to 11.30pm. The dress code is ‘tropical elegance’ – encouraging guests to embrace colour, style, and Caribbean flair. Black-tie attire remains equally welcome for those who prefer a more classic approach.
