Jamaica’s 2024/25 cruise season kicks off with record-breaking arrivals, historic port visits, and high passenger disembarkation rates, boosting tourism recovery.

Jamaica’s cruise tourism isn’t just back—it’s better than ever. With record-breaking arrivals, historic milestones, and unmatched charm, the island is redefining the cruise experience in 2024/25.

An Exciting Start to Jamaica’s 2024/25 Cruise Season

Jamaica is making waves in the cruise tourism industry as the 2024/25 season begins with historic milestones, record-breaking passenger arrivals, and an unmistakable energy that signals the full recovery of the sector. Over just four days, from December 2 to December 5, 2024, the island’s three main resort ports—Falmouth, Montego Bay, and Ocho Rios—welcomed an impressive ten cruise ships. With a total of 34,519 passengers and 13,137 crew members docking during this period, Jamaica has once again proven why it was named the World’s Leading Cruise Destination 2024 by the World Travel Awards.

Adding to the excitement, the port of Falmouth made history on December 5 by hosting two inaugural visits: Disney Cruise Line’s Disney Treasure and Royal Caribbean’s Celebrity Ascent. This double debut highlights Jamaica’s growing appeal to major cruise lines, further solidifying its position as a premier cruise destination.

Record-Breaking Numbers and Milestones

The start of the 2024/25 cruise season has been nothing short of extraordinary. Over 1.1 million cruise passengers have already visited Jamaica this year, matching the record set in 2019—a significant achievement given the challenges faced by the cruise industry during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Bartlett, expressed his enthusiasm during an impromptu press conference aboard Disney Treasure. He emphasized that the season has indeed begun “with a bang,” with close to 7,000 passengers arriving on the two inaugural vessels alone. On the same day, the Carnival Legend brought an additional 2,183 passengers and 918 crew members to Montego Bay.

The cruise calls during the four-day period also included ships like MSC Seascape, Independence of the Seas, Nieuw Amsterdam, and Freedom of the Seas, further enriching the island’s bustling ports. With disembarkation rates reaching an impressive 90%, the local towns of Falmouth, Montego Bay, and Ocho Rios are benefiting from a significant boost in economic activity.

A Historic Day at Falmouth Port

December 5, 2024, will be remembered as a landmark day for the Falmouth port. For the first time, two major cruise ships made their inaugural visits simultaneously. The Disney Treasure delighted passengers and locals alike with its enchanting theme and unique onboard experiences, while Celebrity Ascent brought modern luxury to the shores of Jamaica.

During a special welcome reception, Disney Treasure’s Captain Marco Nogara, accompanied by Co-captain Minnie Mouse, expressed his excitement about the port of Falmouth. “We’re here today, and it will not be our last,” Captain Nogara assured, hinting at more visits to come. True to his word, Disney Treasure is set to return in just two weeks.

Minister Bartlett and other dignitaries were treated to a tour of the Disney Treasure, further strengthening ties between Jamaica and Disney Cruise Line. The day’s events underscore Falmouth’s rising status as a world-class cruise destination, capable of hosting some of the most prestigious ships in the industry.

Jamaica’s Cruise Industry Recovery and Future Outlook

The robust start to the 2024/25 cruise season reflects Jamaica’s remarkable recovery in the tourism sector, particularly the cruise sub-sector, which faced a 17-month shutdown during the pandemic. Minister Bartlett highlighted the hard work and resilience that has led to this resurgence, noting that the cruise industry is once again thriving, with passenger numbers and disembarkation rates exceeding expectations.

Jamaica’s recognition as the Caribbean’s Best Cruise Destination 2024 by the World Cruise Awards is a testament to the island’s ongoing efforts to enhance its appeal to global cruise lines and travelers. The focus on delivering unforgettable experiences—both onboard and ashore—has solidified Jamaica’s reputation as a must-visit destination.

Looking ahead, the cruise industry’s growth is expected to bring even more opportunities for local communities, businesses, and tourism stakeholders. With major cruise lines like Disney and Royal Caribbean committing to future visits, Jamaica’s ports are poised to welcome even greater numbers of passengers in 2025.

Final Thoughts

Jamaica’s 2024/25 cruise season has begun with incredible momentum, setting a high standard for the months ahead. The historic milestones achieved in just the first week—combined with record-breaking passenger arrivals and widespread industry recognition—are a testament to the island’s enduring charm and strategic vision for tourism growth.

As Minister Bartlett aptly put it, “The cruise winter season has literally started with a bang.” This robust start not only signals the recovery of the cruise sub-sector but also positions Jamaica as a leader in the global cruise industry. With its vibrant culture, breathtaking landscapes, and world-class ports, Jamaica is ready to welcome travelers from around the world to experience the magic of the island.