Cruise season closes with rise in visitor spending

2026-03-20 - 16:55

Visitor surveys at the Port of Spain Cruise Complex showed about 15,799 passengers disembarked to explore Trinidad during the 2025/2026 cruise season, with average spending of US$59 per visitor and total onshore expenditure of US$932,141. Tourism Trinidad Limited stated that from October 2025 to February 2026, Trinidad recorded 23,961 cruise passengers across 14 calls and 10,723 crew members. Passenger arrivals increased by 36 per cent compared to the 2024/2025 season. Tour participation rose by 17 per cent, with 6,521 visitors joining local tours. Cruise lines included Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean, MSC Cruises, Holland America Line, Oceania Cruises and Swan Hellenic. Five vessels made maiden calls, including SH Vega, Coral Princess and Hebridean Sky. Brilliance of the Seas recorded 200 passenger embarkations in Trinidad. The United States accounted for 66 per cent of arrivals with 15,865 passengers. Canada accounted for 17 per cent, the United Kingdom six per cent, Germany four per cent, the Caribbean one per cent and other markets six per cent. Visitors accessed tours in Port of Spain, Maracas, Caroni, Paramin and the Asa Wright Nature Centre. Activities included beach visits, bird sanctuary tours and cultural presentations. Minister of Trade, Investment and Tourism Senator Satyakama Maharaj said the results show growth in arrivals and participation by local businesses. He said cruise tourism supports vendors, artisans and tour operators. Tourism Trinidad Limited stated that work will continue with stakeholders to expand participation and increase visitor spending within local communities.