BLUE SEA ANGUILLA, the island’s leading destination management company (DMC) celebrates 15 years in business this year. They are passionate about Anguilla and make it their business (bringing corporate, wedding and other large groups to the island) to show their guests, many of whom will never have come to Anguilla before and who will have little idea of what to expect – the very best the island has to offer.
Last year Blue Sea Anguilla helped more than 5,000 guests get introduced to the unique charm of ‘The Rock’. “Many come here thinking they knew what the Caribbean was about and then are a little surprised and delighted to discover something unique and different. Because we make sure to show the real Anguilla.”
The Blue Sea team guides these groups graciously, finessing each experience to tailor to their different needs, utilising local talent and respecting Anguillian culture. Their promotion of where to go to see and do things in Anguilla has contributed significantly to the island’s economy in sustainable ways.
Mimi Gratton, the managing director, has Anguilla at heart in all she does, and knows that by promoting local musicians, makers and experiences everyone benefits. The extensive list of vendors Blue Sea Anguilla works with means exposure to a large amount of people that might not normally get the chance to work together. That builds demand for their services and the products they produce, and Mimi has been gratified to see an increase in local shopping and other guest activities to present to her groups.
‘We have really bumped ANGUILLA at heart up our local gift catalogue recently because there is so much more to buy and showcase in Anguilla than people realise: like Jo’s salts, Deon’s sippy bags, books, art and spa and beauty products from various small makers.’
As one client said, ‘Blue Sea Anguilla offer access in a way that shows you the heart and soul of Anguilla. Social entrepreneurship is at the core of what they do, and they operate with integrity to make Anguilla accessible for the benefit of all – without ever selling it out.’
