Saint Lucia’s cruise tourism sector is experiencing a significant boost with projections indicating over 32,000 passengers will arrive during the week of January 5-11. This substantial influx comes from 18 scheduled vessel calls at Castries, though actual disembarkation numbers remain subject to change based on operational adjustments.
Port authorities have reported 14 successful ship arrivals thus far, highlighted by Monday’s docking of MSC Virtuosa—the week’s largest vessel—which delivered 6,334 passengers to Pointe Seraphine. The Norwegian Epic contributed an additional 4,228 passengers during midweek operations. Four more ships are anticipated through the weekend, including AIDAperla with an estimated 3,400 passengers.
This sustained maritime activity demonstrates robust utilization of Castries’ five piers despite ongoing infrastructure enhancements. Global Ports Holding (GPH) is currently funding substantial upgrades to both Castries and Soufrière cruise facilities as part of comprehensive port reconstruction initiatives.
In strategic developments, Lancelot Arnold—GPH’s Eastern Caribbean Director and CEO of Saint Lucia Cruise Ports—revealed new approaches to stimulate year-round cruise traffic. In a recently published interview, Arnold emphasized targeted outreach to operators specializing in smaller vessels and expedition-style voyages, alongside promoting niche market products including wellness retreats, cultural experiences, and culinary tourism packages.
Further strategies under exploration include berth optimization techniques and regional itinerary coordination with neighboring destinations such as Antigua and Barbuda, indicating a collaborative approach to enhancing Eastern Caribbean cruise tourism.