Antigua and Barbuda enjoyed a vibrant start to the week as more than 7,800 cruise passengers poured into the country on Monday, bringing renewed energy and strong economic activity to the capital and surrounding communities.

According to the Antigua Cruise Port, four cruise vessels docked at St. John’s Harbour, delivering a significant wave of visitors eager to explore the destination.

The ships included Mein Schiff 2 of TUI Cruises, which arrived with 2,830 passengers, and AIDAsol of AIDA Cruises, carrying 2,449 passengers. Also in port were Queen Elizabeth of Cunard with 1,954 passengers, and Azamara Quest of Azamara, bringing an additional 654 visitors.

The influx translated into brisk business for a wide cross-section of the local economy, including taxi operators, tour guides, vendors, retailers, restaurants, and attraction sites, many of whom reported a noticeable uptick in activity throughout the day.

Officials at the Antigua Cruise Port noted that cruise tourism continues to show strong momentum. A total of 98 cruise calls are scheduled for December, marking an increase over the same period last year and underscoring the destination’s growing appeal within the global cruise market.

The strong passenger turnout further reinforces Antigua and Barbuda’s position as a leading cruise destination in the Eastern Caribbean, with cruise tourism playing a vital role in supporting jobs, small businesses, and overall economic growth.