Tourism Minister Charles "Max" Fernandez says Antigua and Barbuda has already welcomed more than 800,000 cruise passengers this season, citing the figures as proof of a robust recovery in the country's most vital economic sector. According to Antigua News Room, Fernandez made the announcement during the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP) manifesto launch at the American University of Antigua Conference Centre.
Fernandez, who is also the ABLP candidate for St. John's Rural North, pointed to the numbers as evidence of the destination's growing regional appeal. "We've already welcomed over 800,000 cruise passengers for the season thus far," he said.
The strong performance extends beyond cruise arrivals. Fernandez also highlighted significant air travel growth, noting that February alone recorded over 35,000 passenger arrivals by both air and sea in a single month.
The minister described the figures as part of a broader post-pandemic recovery, one that has not only restored lost ground but in some cases surpassed it. "Visitor arrivals by both air and sea have rebounded strongly… in many instances surpassing pre-pandemic performance," he said.
Fernandez credited deliberate government policy and strategic investment for driving the rebound. "This did not happen by chance. It is the result of deliberate leadership, strategic investment and a clear forward-looking vision," he said.
Among the infrastructure improvements, Fernandez highlighted upgrades to airlift, accommodation and cruise facilities. He said the country's port can now accommodate up to five of the world's largest cruise ships simultaneously — a development he described as a significant competitive advantage.
The minister also framed tourism growth in terms of its direct economic impact on ordinary Antiguans and Barbudans. "It is jobs for people… income for our families… opportunity for entrepreneurs," he said, referencing taxi drivers, vendors, tour operators and hospitality workers who depend on the sector.
Looking ahead, Fernandez said the government intends to sustain and build on the current momentum. "Tourism is not merely an industry… it is the lifeblood of our economy," he said.
The announcement comes as the ABLP promotes its "Renaissance" manifesto, which places tourism at the centre of its development strategy ahead of the April 30 general election.
