ANTIGUA & BARBUDA HOTELS & TOURISM ASSOCIATION

Antigua and Barbuda proudly showcased its leadership and innovation in Caribbean cruising at Seatrade Cruise Global 2025, held April 7 -10 at the Miami Beach Convention Centre. Under the theme “Leading the Way in Cruising Excellence!”, this year’s landmark 40th-anniversary event welcomed over 11,000 cruise professionals, 600+ exhibitors, and representatives from more than 120 countries and 70 cruise line brands. 

The high-level delegation was led by the Honourable Charles “Max” Fernandez, Minister of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Transportation and Investment, and included Colin C. James - CEO of the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority, Donyelle Bird-Browne -Senior Business Development Manager Strategic Partnerships, Shamoi Richards - Business Development Manager Canada, and Gasper George - General Manager Antigua Cruise Port. They were joined by key private sector stakeholders such as Bryson’s Shipping and Insurance, Tropical Adventures Antigua, The Rendezvous Company, and LIAT 2020 Airline. The presence of a delegation from Montserrat further underscored the spirit of regional collaboration and a shared vision for cruise sector growth across the Eastern Caribbean. 

“Antigua and Barbuda is not just participating in the cruise industry; we’re shaping its future. Seatrade Cruise Global is a powerful platform to deepen partnerships, explore innovation, and reaffirm our commitment to delivering an exceptional, destination- focused cruise experience” said the Honourable Charles “Max” Fernandez, Minister of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Transportation and Investment.

Over the four-day event, the team engaged in high-level, strategic meetings with executives from Carnival Corporation, Royal Caribbean Group, Disney Cruise Line, Scenic/Emerald Cruises, Oceanus Voyages, Fred Olsen Line, Marella Cruises, Viking Cruises, Carnival UK (P&O, Cunard), Star Clipper Cruises, AIDA Cruises, TUI, Sea Cloud Cruises, and Global Ports Holding Ltd. Discussions cantered on increasing ship calls, improving shore-side guest experiences, expanding terminal infrastructure, and enhancing Antigua’s readiness for homeporting and turnaround services. Follow-up meetings with MSC, Holland America, Princess, Seabourn, and Silversea are scheduled virtually.

The delegation shared details on destination improvements, discussed LNG and thermal fuel capabilities, shore power integration, and other sustainable practices that align with the industry’s focus on greener cruising. New hotel developments and bespoke tour experiences were also spotlighted as part of a broader effort to boost visitor satisfaction and economic impact.

Antigua continues to earn top marks in guest experience. AIDA Cruises reported an impressive 8.7/10 rating; amongst the highest in the Caribbean, while Marella Cruises ranked Antigua in the region’s top two destinations. Fred Olsen Cruise Lines and others echoed strong positive feedback. Royal Caribbean will increase calls from 160 in 2024 to 170 in 2025 and 240 by 2026, reinforcing the destination’s growing appeal. 

Antigua and Barbuda also unveiled plans to expand Barbuda’s cruise sector, with a focus on sustainability and exclusivity. The island’s appeal to smaller, ultra-luxury vessels (90–100 passengers) is enhanced by its untouched pink sand beaches, the world’s largest frigatebird sanctuary, and immersive eco-tours. The recently opened Barbuda International Airport now allows for same-day fly-in shore excursions from ships with extended departure schedules and shows Barbuda as a unique offering for cruise lines seeking authentic, low-impact experiences. 

“Antigua and Barbuda are positioning itself as the gateway to unforgettable Caribbean cruising. At Seatrade this year, we advanced critical discussions on homeporting, sustainable infrastructure, and an elevated guest experience, cementing our role as a premier cruise destination that’s ready to welcome the world” said, Colin C. James, CEO, Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority As the global cruise industry continues to evolve, Antigua and Barbuda remain committed to innovation, partnership, and delivering unforgettable, high-quality cruise experiences that drive long-term growth for the destination.