In a significant recognition of its long-standing commitment to community empowerment and sustainable tourism development, ProColombia has been honored with the 2025 Aquila Whalesong Destination Award for Excellence in People Investment. The award was presented at this year’s Seatrade Cruise Global conference, the world’s largest gathering for the cruise industry, held in Miami, Florida.

Presented by the Aquila Center for Cruise Excellence, the award celebrates destinations that prioritize human capital in the tourism sector, going beyond infrastructure and promotional campaigns to invest in the people who make travel experiences truly meaningful.

“The Aquila Whalesong Award represents our deep appreciation for organizations that invest not only in infrastructure or marketing but in the human spirit behind tourism,” said Beth Hatt, Founder of the Aquila Center. “ProColombia exemplifies this ethos, combining collaboration, innovation, and purpose to ensure long-lasting benefits for both travelers and the communities that welcome them.”

ProColombia’s work has centered on capacity-building initiatives that directly engage local communities, stakeholders, and tourism professionals throughout Colombia. Through strategic partnerships, tailored training programs, and a focus on long-term collaboration, the organization has set a new standard for responsible tourism development in Latin America.

Accepting the award on behalf of ProColombia, U.S. Executive Director María Camila Castellanos reflected on the significance of the moment.

“We are honored to receive the Whalesong Destination Award from Aquila and the Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association,” said Castellanos. “This recognition celebrates not just a milestone, but a journey of transformation. It is a testament to over two decades of dedication by our communities, port cities, and tourism leaders who have worked tirelessly to make Colombia – The Country of Beauty – a shining star on the global cruise map.”

Colombia has emerged as a key player in cruise tourism, with record-breaking visitor arrivals, new port developments, and increased visibility on the international stage. ProColombia’s "people-first" model has empowered thousands of Colombians working in cruise-related industries, from tour guides and artisans to hospitality professionals and port operators.

The Whalesong Award, symbolized by a whale’s tail, represents strength, wisdom, and harmony—values that align with ProColombia’s sustainable tourism strategy. According to Aquila, these qualities are essential for fostering resilient destinations capable of withstanding global challenges while providing enriching experiences for visitors.

For over 35 years, the Aquila Center for Cruise Excellence has been a leader in tourism education and destination development. As the exclusive training partner of the Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA), the organization supports destinations worldwide with best practices in tourism growth, with an emphasis on ethical, inclusive, and sustainable models.

As cruise tourism continues to evolve, ProColombia’s approach offers a powerful blueprint for other destinations aiming to build not just ports—but prosperous, people-driven tourism futures.