Bahamas Joins Cozumel, Puerto Rico, Virgin Islands, Dominican Republic, Sint Maarten, and Other Destinations in Skyrocketing Caribbean Tourism with a Surge in Cruise Tourist Arrivals Last Year: Everything You Need To Know

Published on February 26, 2026

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In 2025, the Bahamas joined Cozumel, Puerto Rico, Virgin Islands, Dominican Republic, Sint Maarten, and other key destinations in experiencing a skyrocketing surge in Caribbean tourism with a significant increase in cruise tourist arrivals. This surge highlights the resilience and growing appeal of these islands as top cruise destinations, each offering a unique mix of stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and diverse activities. The Bahamas, leading the pack with 10.6 million cruise visitors, continues to dominate the region, benefiting from its proximity to the United States and its appeal to both luxury cruisers and family tourists. Other islands, like Cozumel and St. Maarten, also saw remarkable growth, driven by their well-established cruise infrastructure and increasing demand for tropical escapes. This trend is a direct result of enhanced marketing efforts, world-class services, and the return of major events, making the Caribbean a top choice for travelers seeking unforgettable experiences. The continued success of these destinations signals a bright future for Caribbean cruise tourism in 2026 and beyond.

The Bahamas: A Cruise Tourism Powerhouse

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The Bahamas continues to dominate the Caribbean’s cruise tourism scene, with 10.6 million cruise arrivals in 2025, marking an impressive milestone for this tropical paradise. The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism (MOTIA) reports that the nation’s popularity as a cruise destination remains unrivaled in the Caribbean, benefiting from its close proximity to the United States and its stunning array of islands. Visitors are drawn to the Bahamas’ iconic beaches, vibrant local culture, and world-class resorts. Nassau, the capital, remains a focal point, but the other islands, including Grand Bahama and the Exumas, offer unique experiences ranging from eco-tourism adventures to upscale, private retreats. Cruise ships have been a crucial part of the Bahamas’ tourism infrastructure, contributing significantly to local economies and offering a vital source of employment. The country’s vast array of ports and its appeal to both family travelers and luxury cruisers alike ensure the Bahamas remains a major player in the cruise industry, with 2025 marking another banner year for cruise arrivals.

Cozumel (Mexico): The Jewel of the Western Caribbean

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Cozumel, Mexico, welcomed 4.73 million cruise passengers in 2025, a testament to its enduring status as one of the top Caribbean cruise destinations. Located just off the Yucatán Peninsula, Cozumel is renowned for its pristine beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and rich cultural heritage. According to the Quintana Roo Tourism Board / SEDETUR, the island continues to attract cruise tourists from all over the world, offering something for every type of traveler, from adventurous divers to those seeking relaxation on sun-kissed shores. Cozumel’s cruise port is one of the busiest in the region, with numerous ships docking daily. The island’s well-developed infrastructure, ease of access, and the warm hospitality of its people have cemented Cozumel’s position as a top choice for Caribbean cruises. The 2025 numbers are indicative of the island’s strong recovery post-pandemic and its ability to consistently attract cruise travelers looking for an unforgettable island experience, whether it’s exploring ancient Mayan ruins or swimming with dolphins in crystal-clear waters.

Puerto Rico: A Top Caribbean Destination for Cruise Tourism

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Puerto Rico saw 1.43 million cruise arrivals in 2025, according to the Puerto Rico Tourism Company (PRTC), maintaining its place as one of the most visited islands in the Caribbean for cruise tourists. San Juan, the capital, serves as a major cruise hub, with its vibrant colonial architecture, beautiful beaches, and rich cultural heritage drawing visitors from all over the world. The island’s cruise infrastructure is among the best in the Caribbean, with modern terminals and a variety of shore excursions available for visitors. Puerto Rico’s diverse offerings, from exploring the historic El Yunque National Forest to enjoying the lively atmosphere of Old San Juan, provide something for every type of traveler. As a US territory, Puerto Rico remains an easily accessible and affordable destination for American cruise passengers. The 2025 cruise tourism numbers highlight the island’s enduring appeal, with a steady flow of passengers flocking to Puerto Rico for its cultural experiences, historical landmarks, and natural beauty.

US Virgin Islands: A Cruise Destination with Unmatched Appeal

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The US Virgin Islands saw 1.53 million cruise arrivals in 2025, according to the USVI Bureau of Economic Research, reaffirming its status as a leading Caribbean cruise destination. Comprising islands like St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix, the US Virgin Islands offer a remarkable combination of stunning beaches, rich history, and vibrant culture. St. Thomas, the most visited island, is known for its duty-free shopping, scenic views, and top-tier resorts. St. John, with its lush national parks and pristine nature, appeals to eco-tourism enthusiasts, while St. Croix offers visitors a deeper dive into the island’s history with its historic sites and cultural events. Cruise passengers are drawn to the US Virgin Islands for their ease of access from the mainland US, diverse range of activities, and the welcoming, laid-back atmosphere. The 2025 figures highlight the islands’ strong appeal in the cruise market, and the US Virgin Islands are poised to continue to thrive as a premier Caribbean destination in the years to come.

Dominican Republic: The Rising Star of Cruise Tourism

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In 2025, the Dominican Republic saw 2.8 million cruise arrivals, according to the Ministry of Tourism (MITUR) and Apordom, making it one of the fastest-growing cruise destinations in the Caribbean. Known for its vibrant culture, beautiful beaches, and rich history, the Dominican Republic has become a must-visit stop for cruise itineraries in the region. Ports like La Romana, Puerto Plata, and Santo Domingo are popular docking points, where tourists can explore the island’s diverse offerings—from hiking in the mountains to experiencing the lively atmosphere of local markets and festivals. The country has invested heavily in its tourism infrastructure, ensuring that cruise passengers have a seamless and memorable experience. The Dominican Republic’s rising popularity is a direct result of its ability to cater to a wide range of cruise ship passengers, offering both relaxation and adventure. The 2025 statistics are a clear reflection of the country’s commitment to growing its cruise industry while continuing to promote sustainable tourism practices.

St. Maarten: A Cruise Hotspot in the Caribbean

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St. Maarten, with 1.6 million cruise arrivals in 2025, continues to be a favored destination in the Caribbean, boasting a mix of Dutch and French cultures. According to the Port St. Maarten Group and STAT, the island’s stunning beaches, upscale shopping, and diverse attractions make it a top cruise stop in the region. The island’s cruise port is one of the busiest in the Caribbean, accommodating large ships with ease, and providing a welcoming atmosphere for passengers. St. Maarten’s blend of relaxation and adventure—whether it’s lounging on Maho Beach, famous for planes flying low overhead, or exploring the island’s bustling markets—has made it a must-see stop for many cruise travelers. The 2025 cruise tourism figures reflect St. Maarten’s steady appeal to international travelers, thanks to its unique position as both a luxury destination and an island that offers a range of activities for all types of tourists. The island’s cruise industry remains strong, and its reputation as a beautiful Caribbean getaway continues to grow.

Caribbean Cruise Arrivals: 2025 Performance & 2026 Forecast

The Caribbean cruise industry saw impressive performance in 2025, with several destinations reporting significant increases in cruise arrivals. Leading the pack is the Bahamas, with a remarkable 10.6 million cruise visitors, underscoring its dominance in the Caribbean tourism market. Close behind, the Dominican Republic attracted 2.8 million visitors, maintaining its position as a top cruise destination. Other islands, including St. Maarten, Antigua & Barbuda, and Curaçao, also saw strong figures, with arrivals ranging from 675,000 to over 1 million passengers. These destinations have successfully positioned themselves as desirable ports of call, offering travelers a mix of beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, and unique experiences.

In 2025, Jamaica and the Cayman Islands saw significant cruise traffic as well, with 1.31 million and 1.25 million arrivals, respectively. Meanwhile, Turks & Caicos and the British Virgin Islands also saw healthy growth, with the former welcoming 1.1 million passengers. With steady growth in cruise tourism across these Caribbean destinations, 2026 is set to be another promising year, especially as destinations like the Bahamas and St. Maarten remain crucial to the region’s tourism economy. Below is a breakdown of the 2025 cruise arrivals data for key Caribbean islands:

In 2025, the Bahamas, Cozumel, Puerto Rico, Virgin Islands, Dominican Republic, Sint Maarten, and other destinations saw a skyrocketing surge in Caribbean tourism with a significant rise in cruise tourist arrivals, highlighting growing demand for tropical escapes.

Conclusion

Bahamas, along with Cozumel, Puerto Rico, Virgin Islands, Dominican Republic, Sint Maarten, and other destinations, experienced a skyrocketing surge in Caribbean tourism through a significant increase in cruise tourist arrivals. This surge reflects the continued appeal of the Caribbean as a premier cruise destination, driven by a combination of vibrant culture, stunning beaches, and improved cruise infrastructure. The growth in arrivals is also fueled by enhanced marketing efforts, major events, and the region’s recovery post-pandemic. As these destinations maintain their strong positions in the global tourism market, the Caribbean is set to see even more growth in cruise tourism in the coming years, further solidifying its place as a top travel hotspot. The impressive results from 2025 set the stage for another successful year in 2026, with these destinations well-positioned to continue driving the growth of Caribbean tourism.