Cruising in the Caribbean is experiencing an unprecedented surge, with each year bringing new trends and shifts in traveler preferences. This article summarizes current trends in cruising in the Caribbean.
The Mexican Caribbean remains a top choice for cruises
In 2024, Mexico expects the arrival of 3,122 cruise ships in all its ports, an increase of 8% compared to 2023 and an increase of 5.8% compared to 2019 figures.
The Port of Cozumel is expected to maintain its leading position in cruise arrivals both nationally and in the Gulf Caribbean region, holding 38.4 percent of the total market share, as reported by the Ministry of Tourism of the country.
Cozumel stands out as the top destination for round-trip cruises from the US to the Western Caribbean and is recognized worldwide as the fourth largest cruise port in terms of berthing capacity and annual cruise ship traffic.
Norwegian Cruise Line unveils new Caribbean itineraries
Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), a 57-year-old cruise travel innovator known for pushing boundaries, has announced new itineraries for the Eastern and Western Caribbean.
In response to fall demand for warm-weather destinations, NCL will offer new seven-day tour cruises to the Western Caribbean from New Orleans on Norwegian Getaway beginning October 20, 2024.
Additionally, Eastern Caribbean voyages will begin from Port Canaveral, Florida, aboard Norwegian Epic on October 30, 2024.
Costa Cruises launches an emotion-driven campaign
Costa Cruises has launched a new international advertising campaign aimed at forging an emotional bond with passengers and highlighting the unique experiences on board.
Titled “Live your wonder”, the campaign aims to evoke the inexpressible emotions and wonderful moments that travelers experience.
The creative strategy, developed by Herezie, focuses on conveying these experiences through the emotions they evoke in passengers. Costa Cruises has tailored this new approach to the changing needs and wishes of its customer base.
Royal Caribbean’s Rhapsody of the Seas returns to Latin America
Rhapsody of the Seas, a Royal Caribbean International ship loved by travelers around the world, returned to Latin America last December and will remain in the region until April. Guests have the opportunity to explore destinations such as Aruba, Bonaire and Curacao, as well as Columbus, Panama and Cartagena, Colombia.
From December 2023 to April 2024, Royal Caribbean will offer shore excursions and private tours to fully experience each destination. Additionally, this itinerary includes special themed sailings, such as a voyage aimed at connecting singles and friends under the ‘Singles and Friends’ concept.
5 TOP cruise trends in the world for 2024
Longer world cruises: There is growing interest in month-long world cruises, with Royal Caribbean’s 274-night Ultimate World Cruise becoming increasingly popular on social media platforms such as TikTok.
Younger cruisers: An increasing number of Millennials and Gen-X travelers are turning to cruising, driven by the influence of social media and the desire for new experiences.
Expedition cruises are expanding: The expedition cruise market is booming and new adventure destinations such as West Africa, Madagascar, the Seychelles and Indonesia’s Raja Ampat are becoming increasingly popular.
Food-driven experiences: Cruise lines are integrating sustainable seafood and local cuisine, with celebrity chefs hosting pop-up restaurants and unique food tours ashore.
Environmental focus: The cruise industry is moving towards net-zero emissions by 2050, with trials of biofuels and investments in renewable energy sources and more efficient operations.
