Antigua and Barbuda has locked in significant increases in cruise calls and new strategic partnerships following the country's participation in Seatrade Cruise Global 2026, according to Antigua News Room. The conference, held April 13–16 at the Miami Beach Convention Center, drew more than 11,500 attendees and 650 exhibitors from across the global cruise industry.
The Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority (ABTA) delegation was led by CEO Colin C. James and included USA Senior Business Development Manager-Partnerships Donyelle Bird-Browne, Canada Business Development Manager-Cruise Marketing Shamoi Richards, and Antigua Port Authority CEO Darwin Telemaque. Over three days, the delegation conducted 16 high-level meetings with major cruise partners including Carnival Cruise Lines, Carnival UK, Royal Caribbean Group, MSC Group, Disney Cruise Line, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, AIDA Cruises, Emerald Cruises, Sea Cloud Cruises, Star Clippers, Marella Cruises, and Oceanus.
"The results that we are seeing signals strong forward momentum for Antigua and Barbuda which is supported by favourable satisfaction scores from our visiting cruise guests," said ABTA CEO Colin C. James. "Every industry partner that we engaged were excited at the recent port upgrades and the opportunities that our destination now presents for additional homeporting, LNG fuel capability, new tours and excursions, and the prospect of working closely with us to grow their business with Antigua and Barbuda."
Among the headline commitments secured, MSC Group confirmed 12 cruise calls in 2026, rising sharply to 41 calls in 2027, including 13 calls from its luxury brand, Explora Journeys. A major milestone is also set for December 7, 2026, when the MSC World Europa will make its maiden voyage and first revenue call to Antigua and Barbuda, bringing approximately 5,250 passengers to the island.
Royal Caribbean Group is projected to deliver 112 calls in the upcoming season, while Oceanus will maintain a weekly, year-round presence with 52 calls annually. Ongoing engagement with The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection further cements the destination's standing in the high-value luxury cruise market.
Beyond increased call volumes, several cruise partners are actively exploring homeporting opportunities at the destination, citing Antigua and Barbuda's strong airlift connectivity, efficient port infrastructure, and geographic positioning. Cruise executives also confirmed strategic ship redeployments aimed at capitalising on longer Southern Caribbean itineraries that feature Antigua.
The destination's appeal is underpinned by strong performance data. Guest satisfaction scores average 88 out of 100, with friendliness and safety identified as the leading drivers of positive visitor experiences — factors that directly influence cruise line deployment decisions.
With a projected one million-plus cruise passengers and more than 400 annual calls forecast for the next season, Antigua and Barbuda is pursuing a value-driven growth strategy centred on enhancing on-island experiences, sustainability, and immersive cultural activities.
The ABTA was joined at its conference stand by representatives from Rendezvous Antigua Tour Company, Bryson's Shipping and Insurance, Tropical Adventures Antigua, PIR8 Beach Antigua, and Francis Trading Agency Ltd. Regional collaboration was also a feature of the delegation's activities, with Antigua and Barbuda working alongside Montserrat and other public and private sector partners to position the Eastern Caribbean as a cohesive, multi-destination experience for both mass-market and luxury cruise segments.
