11 cruise lines to visit Trinidad for 2024-2025 Cruise Season
Tourism Trinidad Limited (TTL) has confirmed that Trinidad is set to welcome 20 cruise calls from 11 different cruise lines for the new cruise season—including six inaugural visits, which the tourism body describes as “impressive”.
The organisation recently hosted the official launch of the 2024-2025 cruise season at the Port of Spain Cruise Ship Complex, on Friday 15 November 2024. The highlight of the event was the inaugural visit of the MS Nautica.
According to a release from TTL, there is “growing interest from international cruise lines”, which is “cementing Trinidad’s status as a preferred stop in the Caribbean.”
TTL points to well-known cruise lines such as Seabourn/Carnival Corporation, Oceania Cruises, Seven Seas Cruises, Princess Cruises, and Hapag-Lloyd, all of which call on Trinidad during cruise season. The tourism body also notes that Princess Cruises is scheduled for four calls during the 2024-2025 season, while Royal Caribbean’s EPIC will make five consecutive visits during Carnival.
Chairman of Tourism Trinidad Limited, Cliff Hamilton, observed that Trinidad’s appeal as a must-visit destination continues to rise.
“These achievements are the direct result of strategic initiatives by Tourism Trinidad to boost the island’s visibility on the global tourism stage,” he pointed out. “The team has actively participated in major international tradeshows, promoted the unique offerings of Destination Trinidad online, built strong relationships with global partners, and ensured that the destination meets the high standards expected by international visitors.”
He added: “The arrival of the MS Nautica today is a testament to the hard work and strategic vision of Tourism Trinidad in the international market, as well as our ongoing efforts to position Trinidad as a premier destination in the Caribbean.”
And CEO of Tourism Trinidad Limited, Cornell Buckradee, underscored the tremendous opportunities that the cruise sector brings to local stakeholders and the broader tourism landscape.
“Every cruise call is a gateway to economic growth, job creation, and invaluable exposure for our local tour operators, artisans, taxi drivers, and small businesses,” Buckradee stated. “These visitors are not just tourists; they have the potential to become destination ambassadors for Trinidad, sharing their positive experiences with their personal and online networks, which is vital for building our reputation internationally.”
Buckradee said Tourism Trinidad raison d’être is to enhance the visitor experience “at every touchpoint”.
“From the moment passengers arrive, our focus is on ensuring they have a seamless, enjoyable, and memorable stay,” he explained. “We have been working diligently to showcase our unique cultural offerings, captivating sites and attractions, and unparalleled hospitality. It’s this commitment to excellence that helps turn first-time visitors into lifelong advocates for our destination.”
Following the official launch event last Friday, a distinguished delegation from Tourism Trinidad Limited, the Port Authority of Trinidad and Tobago, and the Port of Spain City Corporation were invited onboard the MS Nautica for an exclusive executive tour.
The group obtained a firsthand glimpse into the amenities and state-of-the-art facilities offered by the MS Nautica, showcasing the ship’s commitment to delivering a high-quality experience to the passengers visiting Trinidad.
The highlight of cruise ship’s visit was the Traditional Crest Exchange Ceremony—a respected maritime tradition that serves as a symbolic gesture of goodwill and partnership. During the ceremony, the shipmaster of MS Nautica and local officials exchanged commemorative crests.
“This act not only marks the ship’s first visit to Trinidad,” Tourism Trinidad said, “but also signifies the start of a fruitful and enduring relationship between the cruise line and Destination Trinidad.”
The post 11 cruise lines to visit Trinidad for 2024-2025 Cruise Season first appeared on CNC3.