Antigua and Barbuda Enjoys Thriving Cruise Season with Up to Four Ships Daily at Antigua Cruise Port, Boosting Local Tourism and Economic Growth

Published on December 9, 2025

Currently, Antigua and Barbuda is experiencing its busiest cruise season, receiving three to four vessels daily at the Antigua Cruise Port; these help spur the country’s tourism and boost economic activities. On Monday, December 4, 2025, the island received thousands of passengers aboard vessels such as Mein Schiff 2 and Azamara Quest. These various cruise calls represent the island’s overall appeal as a favorite cruise destination within the Caribbean.

Besides the Monday arrivals, St. John’s Harbour also welcomed three cruise vessels on Sunday, December 3, namely Explora I, Emerald Azzura, and Mein Schiff 2, further demonstrating this island’s appeal as one of the world’s top destinations. The country’s continued success in attracting major cruise lines underscores its strong tourism infrastructure and growing appeal in the global travel market.

Record-Breaking Cruise Arrivals Boost Local Tourism Economy

In early December, Antigua Cruise Port experienced exceptional foot traffic, as vessels like Azamara Onward, Marella Discovery 2, and Norwegian Gem docked on December 6, bringing a wealth of visitors to the island. On December 5, the island also welcomed the Norwegian Getaway and Celebrity Ascent, with over 4,000 passengers from around the world, further enhancing the economic impact of the cruise season.

These high-profile arrivals not only enrich the island’s tourism offerings but also inject much-needed revenue into local businesses, including restaurants, retail, tourism operators, and transportation services. The rise in cruise tourism has created new jobs and increased economic activity, making it a key driver of growth in Antigua and Barbuda’s economy.

Tourism Growth: Strengthening Economic Foundations for the Future

The increase in cruise arrivals is part of Antigua and Barbuda’s broader strategy to boost the tourism sector and create new economic opportunities for local communities. In line with this, Prime Minister Gaston Browne has expressed his long-term vision of welcoming up to 10 million tourists annually, a significant increase from the current estimate of 350,000 to 400,000 overnight visitors.

This ambitious target highlights the country’s desire to expand its tourism market, moving beyond stay-over tourism and relying on the thriving cruise sector to contribute more significantly to the national economy. By increasing tourism capacity and diversifying visitor offerings, the island hopes to foster economic growth and improve living standards for local communities.

Cruise Tourism: A Catalyst for Local Job Creation and Sustainable Development

As cruise ships continue to dock at St. John’s Harbour, the tourism sector is benefitting from job creation in key areas such as hospitality, tour guiding, transportation, and cultural services. With thousands of passengers arriving each day, local businesses see a steady influx of tourists, driving demand for goods, services, and tourism experiences.

In addition, this growth in cruise tourism is leading to sustainable tourism development that aligns with the country’s efforts to preserve its natural resources and promote eco-friendly tourism practices. By attracting visitors to its beaches, heritage sites, and cultural landmarks, Antigua and Barbuda can capitalize on its natural beauty while fostering long-term sustainability for the local economy.

Future Tourism Growth: Expanding Global Connectivity and Tourism Partnerships

The ongoing success of Antigua and Barbuda’s cruise tourism sector opens up future opportunities for global partnerships and increased connectivity. With international cruise lines continuing to expand their services to the Caribbean, Antigua is poised to attract more global visitors, creating a diverse tourism market and increasing the island’s appeal in key international tourism markets.

As global tourism continues to recover and expand, Antigua is well-positioned to attract more cruise lines and expand its tourism services. With its pristine beaches, rich cultural history, and eco-tourism offerings, Antigua and Barbuda is set to establish itself as a top cruise tourism destination, contributing to regional growth and job creation in the Caribbean.

A Promising Future for Antigua and Barbuda’s Cruise Tourism

The boom in cruise arrivals to Antigua and Barbuda bodes well for sustained tourism growth in the coming years. With solid tourism infrastructure and the ability to cater to both cruise and stay-over tourists, Antigua and Barbuda will remain one of the premier destinations in the Caribbean.

While tourism demand grows, long-term prosperity and new opportunities for communities and tourism professionals alike will be built upon strategic investments in tourism development, local business growth, and sustainable tourism practices. With extended cruise services, economic diversification, and an ambitious vision toward the future, Antigua and Barbuda will soon become one of the most dynamic tourism destinations in the Caribbean.