

Antigua Cruise Port welcomes 14000 cruise passengers, marking another major milestone for cruise tourism as multiple vessels docked across Antigua and Barbuda in a single day.
According to figures from Antigua Cruise Port, the busy day saw an estimated 14,000 cruise passengers and crew members arrive at ports in St. John’s, Falmouth and Barbuda. The high volume of visitors delivered an immediate boost to local vendors, tour operators, taxi drivers, and small businesses throughout the destination.
Six cruise vessels were in port during the day, showcasing Antigua’s capacity to accommodate both large and small ships at the same time. The largest vessel, MSC Virtuosa, led arrivals with thousands of passengers and crew members onboard.
It was joined by Valiant Lady and Brilliance of the Seas, alongside smaller luxury ships Star Flyer, SeaDream 2, and Le Ponant. Tourism officials say the mix of vessel sizes reflects Antigua and Barbuda’s growing appeal to both mass-market and premium cruise lines.
Efficient port operations and coordinated scheduling allowed for smooth passenger flow across all docking locations.
During their time ashore, cruise passengers explored beaches, heritage sites, shopping areas, and cultural attractions. Many also took part in organised tours and island experiences offered by local operators.
Tourism stakeholders note that days with high passenger volume play a critical role in supporting community-based tourism. Spending from cruise visitors benefits transportation services, restaurants, retail outlets, and excursion providers across Antigua and Barbuda.
Officials say the milestone day highlights continued confidence in Antigua Cruise Port as a leading regional hub. Ongoing investment in port infrastructure, improved passenger facilities, and strong partnerships with cruise lines have contributed to steady growth in cruise calls.
Cruise tourism remains a vital pillar of the national economy, supporting employment and income generation across multiple sectors. As Antigua and Barbuda prepares for a busy cruise season ahead, tourism authorities remain focused on maintaining service quality while ensuring that growth delivers lasting benefits for local communities.






