Voyij Launches Bahamian Edition of Locals Onboard Presented by Voyij.com in Partnership with The Bahamas Chamber of Commerce and National Art Gallery of The Bahamas

NASSAU, Bahamas — July 16, 2025 — Voyij.com, a mission-driven e-commerce marketplace connecting travelers with local artisans and small businesses, has partnered with The Bahamas Chamber of Commerce & Employers’ Confederation (BCCEC) and the National Art Gallery of The Bahamas (NAGB) to debut the Bahamian edition of its acclaimed Locals Onboard program.

The program, now in its 3rd year, first launched in Alaska in 2023 with launch partner Royal Caribbean International and is now offered onboard 6 cruise line companies. In 2025, the program is expanding to the Caribbean region, debuting with local Bahamians from Nassau and Exuma. As part of the expanded onboard guest enrichment program, Bahamian cultural ambassadors are invited to sail and share their expertise onboard select cruise sailings, offering cruise guests a rich, immersive experience of Bahamian heritage through live demonstrations, storytelling, and sustainably made local goods.

“Our Bahamian partners are sharing more than products, they’re sharing perspective, pride, and personal stories,” said Voyij Co-Founder Olivia Klupar. “This kind of exchange turns tourism into a true connection.”

A Platform for Local Stories and Sustainable Commerce

Curated in collaboration with the BCCEC and NAGB, Locals Onboard Presented by Voyij.com spotlights handcrafted goods and authentic cultural experiences while supporting the country’s small business economy. Guests engage directly with makers, learn the stories behind their creations, and purchase products through Voyij’s onboard events and digital platform.

Dr. Leo V. Rolle, CEO of the BCCEC, emphasized the impact contending that, “the creation of this platform, opens doors for Bahamian creators and entrepreneurs to engage global audiences in a powerful way. The Chamber sees the economic and cultural boast this initiative affords the Bahamas as a natural extension of our mandate and commitment to enhancing the business community, so we are elated about the endless prospects curated.”

Ms. Maelynn Ford, Executive Director of NAGB notes, “the opportunity to partner with Voyij has come at a time when we are trying to highlight that tourism is much more than sun, sand and sea - it is immersion in a different and vibrant culture. This programme allows for guests to begin that immersion on the cruise ship with Bahamians who are artists, craftsman, and culture builders. It’s a great programme!”

Looking Ahead

Voyij’s Bahamian program continues to expand in 2025 with a new collaboration with Nassau Cruise Port businesses through first-ever e-commerce for Bahamians, artist-led events, and digital storytelling campaigns that amplify the voices of creators across the Family Islands. For artists or local individuals interested in getting involved as new opportunities develop, please email [email protected].

Founded in 2014 in Skagway, Alaska, Voyij is a purpose-driven online marketplace and travel platform that uplifts local artists, businesses, and communities. Its Locals Onboard initiative has been recognized by cruise lines for advancing sustainability and cultural exchange. Now in its 3rd year, the Locals Onboard guest enrichment program is available across 6 different cruise lines with over 30 local presenters from 12 communities providing over 100 guest lectures and programs each year.

The Bahamas Chamber of Commerce & Employers’ Confederation serves as the unified voice of the private sector, fostering business development and economic opportunity for Bahamian entrepreneurs.

The National Art Gallery of The Bahamas is the country’s leading institution for Bahamian visual arts, dedicated to preserving and promoting the nation's rich artistic heritage.