Jamaica Welcomes More Than 736,000 Cruise Passengers

Jamaica welcomed more than 736,000 cruise passengers from 234 calls during the first seven months of 2026.

The disclosure was made by Deputy Director of Tourism for the Americas, Phillip Rose, during the opening of the Jamaica Product Exchange (JAPEX) at Moon Palace Jamaica in Ocho Rios, St. Ann, on September 14.

Of the 234 calls, Falmouth received 81, Ocho Rios 76 and Montego Bay 73, while four were made to Kingston and Port Antonio.

Mr. Rose said Jamaica is seeking to broaden the areas of the island that cruise visitors experience.

“Jamaica is the most diverse destination, probably in the world, and while we tend to celebrate and focus exclusively on a few resort towns and often beautiful beaches, there are a lot of visitors who are coming to Jamaica and looking for Kingston activities and also going to the majestic or magical areas of Port Antonio,” he said.

The Deputy Director also noted that Jamaica continues to record growth in the cruise sector as the tourism industry advances its recovery.

“We’re not only growing in the stopover side, we’re not only growing in the airlift side but we’re growing also in the cruise industry side,” he said, adding that Jamaica is expected to welcome Disney Destiny on October 13, with just under 2,800 passengers.

He noted that several major cruise lines continue to call on Jamaica, including Norwegian Cruise Line, MSC Cruises, Royal Caribbean, Carnival, Princess and Virgin Voyages.

Mr. Rose also highlighted the support received from cruise partners following the passage of Hurricane Melissa.

“The cruise industry has been a strong partner of ours, and that was especially shown on the heels of Hurricane Melissa,” he said.