Antigua Targets Cruise Season Boost with November Opening of New Upland and Port Developments
Antigua and Barbuda is gearing up to welcome a larger influx of cruise passengers with the expected opening of the first phase of its new upland and cruise port developments by November.
Tourism Minister Charles ‘Max’ Fernandez confirmed on ABS that the piling work for the upland project is nearing completion, paving the way for enhanced infrastructure that will serve both cruise operators and visitors ahead of the winter tourism season.
“This phase of the development will be open in time for the start of the cruise season in the fourth quarter of this year,” Fernandez said.
“It’s a critical part of our efforts to accommodate increasing cruise arrivals and improve the overall visitor experience.”
The new facilities are part of a broader national strategy to boost homeporting and solidify Antigua’s position as a key cruise hub in the Eastern Caribbean.
According to officials, the improvements will include modern amenities, upgraded port access, and better integration with local transport and retail sectors.
The government is also investing in complementary infrastructure, including upgrades to the old airport terminal, which is being repurposed to handle air passengers arriving to join cruises from the island.
With tourism as a central pillar of the national economy, the developments are seen as vital to recovery efforts following the pandemic and as a means of increasing visitor spending and employment opportunities in the sector.
