The cruise tourism in Bermuda is set for “sharp rise” outside of traditional summer trade, with 2018 schedule now released.
The boost, including 17 more cruise visits for April, October and November, marks a strategy between Bermuda Tourism Authority, the Ministry of Transport & Regulatory Affairs, and the Ministry of Economic Development & Tourism.
Compared with 2017, April’s cruise visits will jump from 12 up to 20, while October rises up to 24 visits (from 18) and November goes from 6 to 9.
The Minister of Economic Development & Tourism, Jamahl Simmons, said that extending the season beyond summer would increase work opportunities for locals.
According to the Minister of Transport & Regulatory Affairs, Water Roban, the island looked forward to Disney Cruises making its first visits in October next year.
The ongoing relationship with NCL (Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings) will bring smaller cruise vessels like RSSC-Regent Seven Seas and Oceania brands back to St George's and Hamilton.
Image: Port of Hamilton, Bermuda
According to 2018 Bermuda cruise ship schedule, cruise visits are projected to rise 12% and cruise visitor arrivals are due to jump 13%.
Bermuda is expected to receive a total of 180 cruise ship calls bringing approx 470,000 cruise passengers, amounting to 19 more cruise calls and 53,500 more travelers in 2018 over 2017.