Antigua and Barbuda is looking forward to welcome 23 luxury ships, including Rhapsody of the Seas, at Antigua Cruise Port.
Rhapsody of the Sea, a Royal Caribbean Cruise, reached the shore of Antigua and Barbuda as the island welcomes the cruise on October 9 2024, at Antigua Cruise Port. Antigua and Barbuda welcomed the passengers and the crew to explore the Heritage Quay shopping complex and pristine beaches.
According to Antigua Cruise Port officials, 23 luxury ships, including Rhapsody of the Sea, are scheduled to visit the island in the season of 2024-2025. This suggests an increase in cruise tourism in Antigua and Barbuda. The expansion of cruise ships in the twin islands is anticipated to bring about 5000 passengers to the shores of Antigua and Barbuda.
During the Antigua Cruise Connect Conference, the investors and stakeholders discussed several growth strategies for the development of the island. The Operations Manager, Rawles Reynolds, highlighted the increase in cruise ships this season. Previously, the island recorded one or two ships per season, but this year, it has risen to 23 luxury ships.
“These are mostly from the luxurious type of calls and so there are individuals who want to come and relax on isolated areas or beaches. They see Barbuda as that private island getaway that we can do for them,” Reynolds mentioned.
This season’s luxury cruises bring wealthy travellers looking for an exclusive experience. The private island destinations of Barbuda look forward to provide world-class experiences to its guests. The 2024 cruise season expects a total of 432 cruise calls. These include 58 calls scheduled in Falmouth Harbour, and 351 visits are expected in Heritage Quay.
The increase in passenger numbers has been recorded with a growth of 7.5% compared to the previous year. The Royal Caribbean Cruises visits several Caribbean islands with the vision to integrate the relations among different regions. The tourism sector has ensured necessary transformation and developmental works in major destinations.
Antigua and Barbuda plans to welcome tons of visitors as the Cruise season is around the corner. Recently, Antigua Cruise Port welcomed its new General Manager, Gasper George. The Port officials are expecting that the expertise of Gasper George will make this cruise season successful.
The tourism sector contributes to the economy of the island. The government of Antigua and Barbuda aims at improving the beaches, hotels, and other popular sites that are capable of attracting travellers. It not only enhanced its cruise calls but also improved its air routes. Antigua and Barbuda, a leading Caribbean island, records an increase in tourism every year.
“By 2027, it is projected that the cruise industry will be nearly 40 million passengers from a global perspective, that means there are a lot of persons who will be cruising,” the General Manager of Antigua Cruise Port added.
