Cruise Ship Makes Inaugural Call at Ocho Rios with 800 Passengers

The Viking Mars arrived in Ocho Rios, St. Ann, on its inaugural Jamaican call, bringing more than 800 cruise passengers and 400 crew members, on November 29.

This visit marks a significant milestone for Jamaica’s cruise industry, as it welcomes back a steady stream of international travellers following the passage of Hurricane Melissa on October 28.

The bustling port of Ocho Rios once again proves its resilience and appeal to cruise lines seeking authentic, world-class tourism experiences.

Executive Director of Jamaica Vacations (JAMVAC), Joy Roberts, described the visit as a powerful reaffirmation that Jamaica is open for business and ready to welcome visitors from around the globe.

“This inaugural call is more than a ceremonial milestone; it signals renewed confidence from cruise lines that Jamaica remains a premier destination for memorable Caribbean experiences,” said Ms. Roberts.

“With our rich culture, pristine beaches, and unmatched attractions, Jamaica continues to offer unparalleled value to travellers and operators alike,” she added.

Ms. Roberts highlighted the island’s diverse attractions that keep visitors returning year after year. “From the crystal-clear waters to our culturally rich communities, Jamaica’s offerings are second to none. The world-famous Dunn’s River Falls remains a must-see experience for many guests, providing a thrilling and iconic immersion into Jamaica’s natural beauty,” she said.

“Restaurants, local crafts, and vibrant music scenes round out a well-rounded itinerary that keeps guests engaged from port to port,” Ms. Roberts noted.

St. Ann’s Bay Mayor, Michael Belmavis, called the inaugural visit a testament to Jamaica’s recovery and a demonstration of renewed visitor interest in the island’s tourism product.

“That this is an inaugural call for Viking Mars, even after Hurricane Melissa’s passage, shows that travellers remain eager to experience Jamaica’s hospitality, culture, and remarkable attractions.

Our community is ready to host visitors with the warmest possible welcome and to showcase the best of what St. Ann has to offer,” he said.

Local business leaders also welcomed the cruise’s return. Colin Mills, a prominent St. Ann businessman, remarked on the importance of sustained confidence in Jamaica’s tourism sector.

“The continued inflow of cruise calls is a clear signal that Jamaica’s tourism economy is resilient and poised for growth. Investments in hospitality, port infrastructure, and service excellence are paying off as visitors return in record numbers,” he said.

Garfield Dussard, another local entrepreneur, emphasised the cooperative effort that drives Jamaica’s cruise appeal.

“What we are seeing is the collective strength of our communities, the professionalism of our port authorities, and the commitment of cruise operators who know Jamaica offers a unique, unforgettable experience,” Mr. Dussard said.

“From our shores to our shops, the warmth of Jamaica is evident in every facet of the guest experience,” he said.

As the Viking Mars docks alongside a growing roster of vessels returning to Jamaican ports, industry officials reaffirm Jamaica’s status as a top Caribbean cruise destination.

Travel partners note that this momentum is driven by Jamaica’s authentic experiences, safety assurances, and the ease with which guests can access world-renowned attractions like Dunn’s River Falls, Mystic Mountain, and Montego Bay’s vibrant coastal scenes.

“For travellers seeking sun, culture, and adventure, Jamaica’s doors are wide open, and the inaugural Viking Mars call in Ocho Rios marks a bright chapter in the island’s ongoing recovery and growth in the global cruise market,” Mr. Belnavis said.