Trinbago Knight Riders connect with nature and cuisine on Caroni tour, Trinidad.

Trinbago Knight Riders enjoy Sunset Dinner Tour at Caroni Bird Sanctuary

Cricket meets conservation in Trinidad

The Trinbago Knight Riders (TKR) recently traded the roaring crowds of the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) for the tranquil waters of the Caroni Swamp, taking part in a special Sunset Dinner Tour hosted by Tourism Trinidad Limited (TTL).

Held on Sunday, August 10, 2025, the excursion brought players, management, and staff together with the Permanent Secretary and Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Trade, Investment and Tourism, blending the excitement of sport with the serenity of one of Trinidad’s most treasured natural attractions.

The event formed part of TTL’s role as the official destination sponsor of the Trinbago Knight Riders, showcasing that the partnership is about far more than brand visibility during cricket matches. It was designed to immerse both local and international representatives of the franchise in authentic Trinidadian culture, from its unique ecosystems to its rich culinary traditions.

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Guided journey through the Caroni Bird Sanctuary

The tour was led by Nanan’s Caroni Bird Sanctuary Tours, a name synonymous with environmental education in Trinidad. Expert guides provided engaging commentary on the ecological significance of the swamp, explaining how its mangrove forests act as vital buffers against coastal erosion, serve as breeding grounds for marine life, and support a wide variety of bird species.

Guests learned about the swamp’s role in conservation and the history behind its naming as the Winston Nanan Caroni Bird Sanctuary, honouring the late naturalist whose work helped protect this delicate ecosystem. As the boats glided through the waterways, the highlight of the evening unfolded: hundreds of Scarlet Ibis, Trinidad’s national bird, returning to their roosts in a breathtaking burst of red against the sunset sky.

Trinbago Knight Riders discover nature and flavour at Bird Sanctuary, Trinidad.

Sport and tourism working together

The Permanent Secretary addressed the gathering, welcoming the Trinbago Knight Riders on behalf of the Ministry and recognising the team as ambassadors for Trinidad and Tobago on and off the cricket field. She noted that experiences like these create valuable connections between sport and tourism, helping to promote the country as a destination to a global audience.

The visit also reflected TTL’s mission to position Trinidad as a year-round tourist destination. By pairing cricket with an eco-tourism experience, TTL highlighted the diversity of the island’s attractions, appealing to travellers who seek both cultural engagement and natural beauty.

A taste of authentic Trinidadian cuisine

Following the tour, guests were treated to an outdoor dining experience that captured the flavour of Trinidad’s multicultural heritage. The menu featured beloved local dishes such as saltfish accra, pholourie, steamed provisions with callaloo and red beans, corn pie, and a traditional curry spread with curried potatoes, assorted meats, vegetables, and paratha roti.

This culinary showcase was more than a meal it was a celebration of the island’s identity. Each dish reflected the influences of African, Indian, European, and indigenous traditions, underscoring the depth and diversity of Trinidad’s food culture. For the Trinbago Knight Riders players and staff, it was an opportunity to connect with the country’s history through its most flavourful expressions.

Building lasting impressions beyond the pitch

Ian Downes, Interim CEO of Tourism Trinidad Limited, emphasised that the organisation’s sponsorship of the Trinbago Knight Riders is about more than logo placement. “By showcasing the beauty of the Caroni Swamp and the flavours of our cuisine, we give our guests, including these talented athletes, an authentic Trinidadian experience they can then share with the world,” he said.

The initiative reflects a broader strategy to use sport as a gateway to tourism, giving high-profile visitors meaningful experiences they can relay to their international followers. For many participants, the evening at Caroni Bird Sanctuary offered a fresh perspective on the island, reinforcing its appeal as a destination where nature, culture, and hospitality meet seamlessly.

Trinbago Knight Riders: Ambassadors for the island

The Trinbago Knight Riders are more than one of the CPL’s most recognisable cricket franchises. They are a symbol of national pride, attracting fans from across the Caribbean and beyond. Their presence at events like the Sunset Dinner Tour demonstrates how sports teams can play a key role in tourism promotion, influencing how global audiences perceive a destination.

For the players, stepping away from the stadium into an environment like Caroni Bird Sanctuary allowed them to experience the quiet beauty of the country they represent. The sight of the Scarlet Ibis, the taste of freshly made paratha, and the sound of the mangroves in the evening breeze are memories that resonate long after the final overs of a match.

Always in season

TTL’s collaboration with the Trinbago Knight Riders underscores a central message: Trinidad is always in season. Whether visitors are drawn by major sporting events, its rich biodiversity, or its vibrant culinary scene, the island offers a wealth of experiences that cater to every interest.

By bringing together the worlds of cricket, conservation, and cuisine, the Sunset Dinner Tour at the Caroni Bird Sanctuary showed how sport can be a powerful platform for cultural exchange and environmental appreciation. For the Trinbago Knight Riders and their hosts, it was a reminder that the spirit of the game extends far beyond the pitch — into the heart of the island itself.

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