By Zaya Williams

The tourism industry is gearing up for a phenomenal year as the cruise sector shows promising signs of success.

On January 4, 2024, the Antigua Cruise Port achieved a remarkable milestone by hosting over 10,000 passengers daily.

Among the arrivals, the Enchanted Princess brought 3,764 passengers, while the Caribbean Princess, its sister vessel, welcomed 3,297 visitors at Heritage Quay.

Over at the Nevis Street Pier, the Costa Pacifica docked with 2,994 visitors, contributing to a grand total of 10,055 for the day.

Cruise Port officials anticipate a bustling January, marking the peak of the 2023/2024 winter season, with a projected 130,000 passenger arrivals.

On January 9^th and 30^th, five cruise ships are scheduled to make simultaneous port calls. The Britannia, Costa Serena, Royal Clipper, Norwegian Visa, Le Bellot, Explorer of the Seas, AIDA Perla, Costa Serena, Spirit of Discovery, and Norwegian Viva are all set to dock during these dates.

The cruise industry will see continued growth in the upcoming year, boasting 415 confirmed cruise calls, surpassing the 2023 figure by 39 calls.

A staggering 900,000 cruise passengers are expected to be warmly welcomed throughout the year, further solidifying the industry’s positive trajectory.