The long-awaited expansion and upgrade project at Antigua’s cruise port has reached a key new phase, with construction now underway on two high-profile components: a luxurious beachside day club with an infinity-edge pool and a sprawling commercial district designed to cater to the growing number of cruise passengers visiting the island each year.
Project leaders confirmed that the build-out, which is part of a broader $100 million redevelopment initiative to transform Antigua into a top-tier Caribbean cruise destination, is on track to meet its scheduled 2025 completion timeline. The day club, positioned along a scenic stretch of coastline adjacent to the main cruise berth, will offer day passes for disembarking passengers seeking relaxation, featuring private cabanas, food and beverage service, and direct beach access.
The commercial build-out component, meanwhile, will span more than 20,000 square feet of mixed-use space, housing local craft retailers, duty-free shops, casual dining outlets, and tourist information centers. Developers note that the new facilities are designed to address longstanding gaps in visitor amenities, as the port has seen a steady 12% annual growth in passenger arrivals over the past three years, outpacing the capacity of existing on-site services.
Local government officials emphasize that the project is expected to deliver widespread economic benefits beyond the port itself, creating more than 200 new construction jobs and an additional 350 permanent hospitality and retail positions once the facility opens. Antigua’s tourism sector, which accounts for nearly 60% of the island’s total GDP, has prioritized port upgrades to attract larger cruise vessels and extend the average length of visitor stays, boosting overall spending across local accommodation, transportation, and attraction businesses.
Project stakeholders also highlighted that the development incorporates sustainable design features, including solar panel installations for common area energy needs, water conservation systems, and locally sourced building materials to minimize the environmental footprint of the expansion. Once completed, the upgraded port is projected to accommodate an extra 300,000 passengers annually, solidifying Antigua’s position as a leading stop on Eastern Caribbean cruise itineraries.