On October 8, 2024, Wanderlust Ghana, in collaboration with the G10 consortium, hosted an extraordinary all-white yacht cruise at Dubai Harbour, marking a vibrant celebration of Ghanaian culture while also promoting tourism. This event drew together a diverse group of Ghanaians from both their home country and the diaspora, further solidifying the bonds within the Ghanaian community. The cruise is a notable highlight in Wanderlust Ghana’s impressive trek of 30,000 kilometers across 33 countries, and follows their highly publicized road trip from Accra to London in 2023. This ongoing journey not only inspires adventure but serves as a platform for cultural exchange, allowing Ghanaians to connect with each other internationally, fostering a celebratory atmosphere infused with pride for their heritage.
This yacht cruise was more than just a lavish party; it provided attendees with unique experiences that merged entertainment with cultural representation. Activities included desert dune bashing—structured with a Ghanaian twist—leading into the yacht cruise, where connections were strengthened among the participants. The gathering signified a crucial turning point for the Ghanaian diaspora, symbolizing their collective unity and shared commitment to enhancing tourism in their homeland. At its core, the event was a celebration of culture, but also a meaningful attempt at promoting Ghana as a travel destination, highlighting the potential for cultural exchange and community building.
The organization of the event by the G10 consortium, which comprises notable travel companies such as Travel Planners Ghana, Eves Travelcation, and Adbel Travels, was part of a broader initiative. These companies aim to not only promote travel and exploration among Ghanaians but also encourage them to engage actively in representing their country abroad. This multidimensional approach targets the strengthening of tourism both at home in Ghana and through the diaspora, fostering a growing appreciation for cultural heritage while also benefiting the economy. Attendees affirmed the significance of this mission, emphasizing how such gatherings can drive interest in visiting Ghana.
Looking ahead, the Wanderlust Ghana team is scheduled to continue their expedition with an upcoming event in South Africa, in collaboration with the Ghana Tourism Authority and G10. This event, set to take place shortly after the cruise, will coincide with the launch of this year’s “December in GH” festivities in South Africa, showcasing Ghana’s rich cultural offerings and tourism opportunities on an international stage. This strategic partnership highlights the importance of collaboration between organizations and cultural bodies, thereby maximizing the reach and effectiveness of their tourism efforts.
Throughout the cruise, participants had exclusive opportunities to interact with the Wanderlust Ghana team, which was met with enthusiasm. Many attendees expressed heartfelt pride in being part of such a landmark occasion. Mercy Akaliga, a representative of G10, underscored Wanderlust Ghana’s pivotal role in promoting tourism, stating that their ‘Visit Ghana’ initiative is vital in attracting more visitors to the country. The overarching goal of such initiatives is to increase tourism, creating ripple effects that positively impact the Ghanaian economy while also enhancing global perceptions of the nation as a vibrant international destination.
For those who could not partake in the Dubai yacht cruise, alternative opportunities for connection remain abundant. An exciting adventure in South Africa, scheduled for November 7–14, 2024, will present attendees with opportunities to explore notable sites like Soweto and Robben Island, enriching their understanding of the region and its connections to Ghana. Furthermore, plans for a meet-up in Benin are underway, aiming to expand the network of Ghanaians engaged in the Wanderlust mission. This convergence of efforts from Wanderlust Ghana and the G10 travel companies encapsulates a dedicated pursuit of cultural promotion and provides a model for how travel can effectively build communities, ensuring that Ghana’s narrative is vibrantly represented worldwide.
