Jamaica has reinforced its reputation as a premier Caribbean cruise destination, with its cruise tourism sector contributing an estimated US$197.8 million to the nation’s economy during the 2023-2024 season. This data was outlined in a recent study by the Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA) in partnership with Jamaica Vacations Ltd.
Revenue from Jamaica’s cruise tourism arises from various sources, including passenger and crew expenditures and investments by cruise lines in port services, local goods, and related taxes. During the season, the island welcomed 1,426,485 cruise passengers, with 1,158,240 opting to disembark and explore. These passengers spent approximately US$136.7 million on activities such as dining, shopping, accommodations, and shore excursions.
Passenger spending trends highlighted excursions, watches, and jewelry as the most popular categories, collectively accounting for 71% of expenditures. Moreover, 62% of cruise parties reported booking excursions while ashore. Complementing this, crew members - numbering an estimated 166,790 - contributed US$8.1 million to the local economy, spending on crafts, food, and tours.
Jamaica also ranked as the 5th-highest destination in the Caribbean and Latin America for cruise line expenditures, receiving US$49.7 million. This figure represents payments for port fees, navigation services, utilities, and other locally sourced goods and services.
The economic impact of cruise tourism extends beyond spending, supporting 3920 local jobs and generating US$36.1 million in annual wages.
The FCCA study, conducted aboard member cruise ships between October 2023 and May 2024, also revealed that 73% of passengers were first-time visitors to the island. They predominantly hailed from the USA (32%), Canada (37%), and Italy (17%).
Jamaica's cruise ports are Ocho Rios, Montego Bay, Falmouth, Kingston, and Port Antonio.