Trinidad Gears Ups For Busy 2023-2024 Cruise Season
Trinidad is gearing up for a busy 2023-2024 cruise season with all signs pointing to another year of significant gains for the island’s cruise industry.
While the cruise season traditionally begins in November and runs until April the following year, this year the first vessel, Seabourn Pursuit, is expected to visit on Oct. 11, 2023.
Following a strong 2022-2023 season, initial projections for 2023-2024 indicate that approximately 88,000 passengers and 30,000 crew will set foot on Trinidad’s shores, ushering in an influx of economic prosperity, cultural enrichment, and boundless opportunities for local businesses. This represents an estimated 81 percent increase in passengers from last season.
Of note, there are 10 inaugural visits and 5 new cruise lines incoming for this season. They are Seabourn, Ex Polaris, Victoria Cruises, Silver Seas Cruises and Salen Ship Management Company.
The last cruise season showcased the remarkable potential of Trinidad’s cruise industry. A total of 48,243 passengers arrived via 29 calls at the Cruise Ship Complex in Port of Spain. This past season exemplified the island’s ability to offer a remarkable experience to cruise visitors from around the world.
Passenger disembarkation rate was at 80% or 4 in every 5 passengers with an average spend of US$43 per person. Passengers engaged in various activities, including shopping for local handicrafts, savouring the island’s culinary delights, and exploring its vibrant cultural heritage.
This infusion of spending power generated substantial revenue for local businesses, invigorating sectors such as retail, hospitality, transportation, and entertainment, and contributing to the overall economic growth of Trinidad.
Tourism Trinidad CEO Carla Cupid said: “Employment opportunities flourished as the cruise season unfolded. Local guides, tour operators, taxi drivers, craft vendors and service personnel played a pivotal role in ensuring an unforgettable experience for cruise passengers.”
Cupid continued: “This surge in employment not only provided income for individuals but also fostered skills development and contributed to the growth of the local tourism sector.”
