Tourism Legends Awards: Bernard Johnson

During its 2025 Annual General Meeting on Friday, March 28th 2025 the SLHTA awarded Bernard Johnson with a Tourism Legends Award, in appreciation of his many years of dedicated service, devotion and commitment to the hospitality and tourism industry.

Bernard Johnson’s contribution to the industry is a multifaceted one.

General Manager of IGY Rodney Bay Marina Sean Devaux (left) received the award on Bernard Johnson’s behalf.

I can see him standing outside the St. Lucia Cold Storage retail center with his left leg propped up against the wall as he greeted every single person who entered the building. He exchanged pleasantries, joking both in English and Creole.

Bernie as he was affectionately called, earned the nickname “ The Chicken Back King of St. Lucia “ and he constantly referred to himself by this name. He was pleasant, helpful, humble and had a genuine interest in people, especially those who worked with him and those who patronized his business. During the early days, he was the main supplier of chicken and related items to the major hotels and restaurants. He was always willing, helpful and reliable. The hotels and restaurants depended on him.

He combined his love for his work at St. Lucia Cold Storage with his passion for the sea, his boats, and deep-sea fishing. In the past, every week he would go out on his boat Xiphius Seeker and take visitors who were seeking a Deep Sea Fishing Experience along with him. He often took them out at no cost to the visitor who he not only treated to the Deep-Sea Fishing Experience but to the many beverages that were aboard the boat and to his witty chat and banter.

His representation of the island at regional events which took place in Martinique, Grenada, Barbados and Trinidad as well as those at international fishing tournaments is legendary. His activities have attracted many a investor to the island. Bernie owned the Calypso Dancer, a motor vessel which took about 100 clients from the Cruise Line Cunard Countess or Cunard Princess sightseeing down to Soufriere and had much of the same itinerary as that offered by the present-day Catamarans.

Ever Active, Bernie moved into Construction and is responsible for the development of multiple townhomes like Admirals Quay, Bayview, Pelican Point, Jasmine Villas and the Anchorage, all of which have become homes to numerous non-nationals and International snowbirds, who visit the island for months at a time.

Bernie continues to give his time and boats to support the ending of every ARC event, the Mango Bowl Sailing Regatta and the International Bill Fish Tournament.

He lives life to the fullest and his “Glass half full mantra” is infectious and a constant reminder to those around him. One of the mottos that he lives by is “Life is not a dress rehearsal – make the most of it”.

A truly inspiring gentleman.

Let us celebrate Bernard Johnson!