📊 What is the true economic impact of cruise tourism? From record-breaking industry growth to new opportunities for destination development, economic insights took center stage during the “Cruise Tourism’s Economic Impact — Insights From Oxford Economics” specialty session at the 32nd Annual FCCA Cruise Conference & Trade Show in San Juan, Puerto Rico. The session featured Michael R. Greve, practice lead, Port Development & Investment Advisory, Tourism Economics, and Michele Reiser, senior business development manager, Tourism Economics, who shared data, industry forecasts and insights into how cruise tourism contributes to local economies. 🔑 Key takeaways: 🔹 Global cruise tourism continues to grow. The industry welcomed approximately 37 million passengers worldwide in 2025, with that figure projected to reach 46 million by 2031. An estimated 80 new ships are on order, signaling continued investment and expansion. 🔹 The Caribbean remains a major growth market. Cruise passenger volumes in the region are projected to reach approximately 17 million in 2026, up from 11 million in 2019, with forecasts pointing to 21 million by 2031. 🔹 Cruise tourism generates benefits throughout local economies. Beyond direct passenger spending, cruise activity supports jobs, local suppliers, transportation providers, tour operators and other businesses through indirect and induced economic activity. 🔹 More detailed data will strengthen decision-making. The upcoming FCCA economic impact study, conducted in partnership with Oxford Economics, will introduce expanded measures of economic impact, including gross domestic product contributions, capital investment and port-level analysis to help destinations better understand the value of cruise tourism. 🔹 Luxury cruising presents growing opportunities. Luxury cruise deployment and capacity in the Caribbean have grown 41% over the past three years, highlighting opportunities for smaller ports and destinations offering distinctive, high-value experiences. 🔹 Strategic investment is essential. From port infrastructure to tourism facilities, successful development requires realistic market assessments, financially viable plans and partnerships that align investments with each destination’s unique needs and opportunities. As cruise tourism continues to expand, reliable economic data and strategic planning will be increasingly important in helping destinations maximize benefits, attract investment and support sustainable growth. #FCCAConference #CruiseIndustry #CruiseTourism #SanJuan #PuertoRico

🚢 A special thank-you to the Dominican Republic, San Juan Cruise Port / Global Ports Holding, Puerto Rico Tourism Company and Dominica for exhibiting at the 32nd Annual FCCA Cruise Conference & Trade Show! We appreciate your participation and the care you put into showcasing your destinations and services in San Juan. 🇵🇷🤝 #FCCAConference #CruiseTourism #PuertoRico

🚢 Thank you, Uber, for supporting FCCA and sponsoring the Private Platinum Member & Cruise Executive Lunch at Barullo Restaurant in Distrito T-Mobile, San Juan, during the 32nd Annual FCCA Cruise Conference & Trade Show. The gathering brought Platinum Members and cruise executives together to connect, exchange ideas and explore opportunities for collaboration. Uber’s Jorge Cordero and Nicolas Perez shared how mobility solutions can support the cruise journey, from airport transfers and port pickups to exploring destinations. They also highlighted opportunities through Uber for Business to enhance guest experiences and coordinate transportation for crew and employees. 👏 We appreciate Uber’s partnership and commitment to connecting people and places throughout the cruise experience! #FCCAConference #CruiseTourism #Uber #PuertoRico

🇵🇷 Too many good moments for just one post! 📸 More from our FCCA closing reception at Arena Medalla in DISTRITO T-Mobile. Puerto Rico, you gave us plenty to smile about! #FCCAConference #CruiseTourism #PuertoRico #DistritoTMobile

🇵🇷 One more night. So many reasons to celebrate! The closing reception at Arena Medalla in DISTRITO T-Mobile brought the FCCA family together for good times and great company as we wrapped up the 32nd Annual FCCA Cruise Conference & Trade Show. After a week of meetings, new connections and conversations about the future of cruising, it was time to unwind with the people who made it all worthwhile. Thank you to our Puerto Rico hosts for the warm welcome, generous hospitality and a memorable send-off — and to everyone who helped make this week one for the books! ¡Gracias, Puerto Rico! 🚢 #FCCAConference #CruiseTourism #PuertoRico #DistritoTMobile

🚢 How can technology help destinations deliver unforgettable experiences? At the 32nd Annual FCCA Cruise Conference & Trade Show in San Juan, Puerto Rico, Tom Spina of DOF Robotics explored how storytelling, immersive attractions and artificial intelligence can enhance the cruise guest experience. 🔑 Key takeaways from “Do Androids Dream of Unforgettable Experiences? — Redefining Entertainment”: 🔹 Bring local stories to life. Immersive experiences can introduce visitors to a destination’s history, culture and natural wonders through engaging, educational storytelling. 🔹 Think beyond large attractions. Compact flying theaters and simulated underwater experiences offer possibilities for ports, museums and other visitor spaces. 🔹 Make exploring easier. AI travel companions could help guests plan activities, navigate destinations and communicate across languages. 🔹 Help visitors explore more. AI recommendations could introduce guests to lesser-known attractions, shops and restaurants, spreading visitor spending across the destination and reducing crowding at popular sites. 🔹 Keep people central. Spina emphasized technology’s role in supporting travel agents and tour guides while creating new revenue opportunities. From a virtual journey beneath the sea to discovering a local market, the opportunity is to help guests connect more deeply with the destinations they visit. #FCCAConference #CruiseTourism #TourismInnovation #PuertoRico

🚢 A day ashore in Colombia is a chance to connect, learn and discover. Learning a craft, hearing a local story or sharing a moment surrounded by nature brings visitors closer to the people and traditions of a destination. For cruise guests exploring Colombia, these personal connections can become some of the most memorable parts of the journey. 📷 Photo credit: Pro Santa Marta #FCCA #CruiseTourism #CulturalTourism #SantaMarta #Colombia

🚢 What makes a cruise port experience truly unforgettable? From vibrant cultural experiences to seamless operations and meaningful community engagement, industry leaders explored how ports can create lasting impressions during the “Building Your Port Into an Unforgettable Experience” session at the 32nd Annual FCCA Cruise Conference & Trade Show in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Moderated by Norberto Negrón Díaz of the Puerto Rico Ports Authority, the panel featured María Emilia Bonillas Guardo of the PortOasis Cartagena, Daniela Muñoz Albarrán of ITM Group, Mike Maura Jr. of Nassau Cruise Port, Taylor Karr of Margaritaville at Sea and Jaime Castillo of Royal Caribbean Group. The discussion highlighted how thoughtful port design, authentic destination experiences and collaboration with local communities can enhance guest satisfaction while creating economic opportunities. 🔑 Key takeaways: 🔹 Authenticity creates lasting impressions. Incorporating local culture, cuisine, music, art and traditions into port experiences helps destinations stand out and gives visitors a genuine sense of place. 🔹 Ports should serve as gateways to destinations. While welcoming facilities and attractions enhance the arrival experience, ports should encourage passengers to explore surrounding communities, discover local businesses and experience what makes each destination unique. 🔹 Community engagement drives economic opportunity. Involving local artisans, entrepreneurs, tour operators and businesses in port development helps ensure that cruise tourism benefits extend beyond the terminal. 🔹 Seamless operations matter. Efficient passenger flow, clear wayfinding, accessibility, safety and transportation are essential to reducing friction and creating positive experiences from arrival to departure. 🔹 One size does not fit all. Ports must adapt their offerings to different cruise brands and passenger demographics, from family-focused travelers to premium and luxury guests, while maintaining their destination’s unique identity. 🔹 Memorable experiences don't always require major investments. Panelists emphasized that staff training, warm hospitality, local entertainment and community participation can make a significant difference, even with limited budgets. Ultimately, creating an unforgettable port experience starts with understanding what travelers value most: authentic connections, welcoming hospitality and opportunities to explore. #FCCAConference #CruiseIndustry #CruiseTourism #SanJuan #PuertoRico

💙👕 Wearing their support for a good cause! Special shirts brought a colorful show of support for the FCCA Foundation during the 32nd Annual FCCA Cruise Conference & Trade Show in San Juan. FCCA CEO Michele Paige joined Port Everglades Port Director and CEO Joseph Morris, Martin Jackson of Port Everglades, Bryan Attree of Royal Caribbean, Carlos Estrada of Carnival and Matthew Weintraub of Norwegian to spotlight Port Everglades’ $10,000 donation to support the foundation’s work, including educational opportunities for children across the Caribbean and Latin America. 👏 Thank you, Port Everglades, for your generosity and commitment to giving back. A great look for a great cause! #FCCAFoundation #FCCAConference #PortEverglades #CruiseIndustry #PuertoRico

🚢 What does it take to become a successful cruise homeport? Industry leaders explored the opportunities, challenges and economic benefits of homeporting during the “Homeporting: The Gateway to the Caribbean” session at the 32nd Annual FCCA Cruise Conference & Trade Show in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Moderated by Roger Blum of Cruise and Port Advisors, Inc., the panel featured Bryan Attree of Royal Caribbean Group, Carlos Estrada of Carnival Cruise Line, Juan Kuryla of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd., Joseph Morris of Port Everglades, Jonathan Daniels of PortMiami and Rodger E. Rees of the Port of Galveston. The discussion examined the infrastructure, operational requirements and strategic partnerships needed to develop successful homeports throughout the Caribbean. 🔑 Key takeaways: 🔹 Homeporting delivers greater economic benefits. According to the BREA 2024 economic impact study, homeport passengers spent an average of $187.78 per person, compared with $104.36 for transit passengers, creating additional opportunities for hotels, transportation providers, suppliers and local businesses. 🔹 Infrastructure goes beyond accommodating ships. Successful homeports require efficient terminals, reliable provisioning, customs and immigration services, ground transportation and the operational capacity to manage passenger embarkation and disembarkation. 🔹 Air connectivity and accessibility are essential. Cruise lines consider flight availability, affordability, proximity to source markets and access to nearby destinations when evaluating potential homeports. 🔹 The guest experience begins and ends at the port. Seamless check-in, efficient baggage handling, traffic management and welcoming service are critical to passenger satisfaction and can influence perceptions of the entire cruise vacation. 🔹 Strategic planning drives sustainable growth. Panelists encouraged destinations to develop realistic long-term master plans, assess their capabilities and pursue opportunities suited to their infrastructure, rather than focusing solely on attracting the largest ships. 🔹 Collaboration is key to success. Strong relationships between cruise lines, port authorities, governments and local stakeholders, supported by open communication and the sharing of best practices, help destinations attract investment and expand homeporting opportunities. The discussion reinforced an important message: Successful homeporting requires more than a place to dock. It takes planning, operational readiness and partnerships that deliver value for cruise lines, passengers and destinations alike. #FCCAConference #CruiseIndustry #CruiseTourism #SanJuan #PuertoRico

📸 More moments from a memorable night in Puerto Rico! 🇵🇷 Art, live music and local flavors made the A Taste of Puerto Rico Reception & Dinner @ Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico a vibrant part of the 32nd Annual FCCA Cruise Conference & Trade Show. These smiles capture the spirit of an evening spent reconnecting with colleagues, making new friends and enjoying Puerto Rican hospitality. 👏 Another thank-you to San Juan Cruise Port and Global Ports Holding for sponsoring the celebration! #FCCAConference #CruiseIndustry #CruiseTourism #SanJuan #PuertoRico

🚢 What’s next for cruise tourism in the Caribbean and Latin America? Cruise industry leaders shared their perspectives on the future of the industry during the President & CEO Leadership Panel at the 32nd Annual FCCA Cruise Conference & Trade Show in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Moderated by FCCA President Adam Ceserano, the discussion featured Christine Duffy of Carnival Cruise Line, Rubén Rodríguez of MSC Group Cruise Division, Marc Kazlauskas of Norwegian Cruise Line, Chris Ivy of Margaritaville at Sea and John Lovell of Virgin Voyages. The conversation explored fleet expansion, evolving guest expectations, deployment strategies and opportunities for stronger partnerships between cruise lines and destinations. 🔑 Key takeaways: 🔹 The Caribbean remains a priority for growth. Cruise lines are investing in new ships, expanding itineraries and increasing capacity across the region, reinforcing its importance to the industry's long-term future. 🔹 Authentic experiences are driving demand. Today's travelers are looking beyond traditional beach excursions for immersive cultural, culinary, historical and entertainment experiences that connect them with local communities. 🔹 Guest expectations are evolving. Personalization, value, flexibility and multigenerational experiences are shaping cruise offerings, while seamless transitions from ship to shore are becoming increasingly important. 🔹 Infrastructure and accessibility influence deployment. Port capacity, air service, affordability and operational efficiency play critical roles in decisions about new itineraries, homeporting and expanded calls. 🔹 Guest feedback matters. Cruise lines are using passenger surveys and data to guide deployment decisions, making destination satisfaction and the quality of shore experiences essential to attracting repeat visits. 🔹 Strong partnerships create opportunities. Transparent communication, sustainable practices and collaboration between governments and cruise lines are critical to building long-term confidence and investment. The message was clear: The Caribbean's cruise tourism future is strong, and continued collaboration will be key to unlocking its full potential. #FCCAConference #CruiseIndustry #CruiseTourism #SanJuan #PuertoRico

🇵🇷 A taste of Puerto Rico, an evening full of energy! Highlights from the A Taste of Puerto Rico Reception & Dinner @ Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico, where delegates at the 32nd Annual FCCA Cruise Conference & Trade Show explored the art on display and enjoyed live music, local flavors and the island’s warm hospitality. Cruise industry colleagues and destination partners came together for a lively evening of culture, camaraderie and celebration. 👏 Thank you to San Juan Cruise Port and Global Ports Holding for sponsoring a memorable night in San Juan! #FCCAConference #CruiseIndustry #CruiseTourism #SanJuan #PuertoRico

🇻🇬🚢 Cruise growth, authentic experiences and opportunities for the British Virgin Islands Speaking today at FCCA’s President/CEO & Minister of Tourism Forum & Lunch in Puerto Rico yesterday, BVI Junior Minister of Tourism & Culture Luce Hodge-Smith highlighted the territory’s cruise tourism momentum and efforts to translate that growth into lasting benefits for local communities. From improvements to port infrastructure and the visitor experience to a focus on locally made products, authenticity and sustainability, the BVI is investing in what makes the destination distinctive. Minister Hodge-Smith also highlighted efforts to encourage cruise guests to return for longer stays, creating more opportunities for hotels, small businesses and tourism professionals across the territory. 👏 Thank you, Minister Hodge-Smith, for sharing the BVI’s priorities and commitment to strengthening partnerships with the cruise industry! #FCCAConference #CruiseIndustry #CruiseTourism #BritishVirginIslands

A paddle. A new perspective. A Caribbean experience to remember. ☀️🛶 Explore the natural beauty of Quintana Roo, where turquoise waters and lush landscapes invite you to slow down and take it all in. Whether you’re seeking adventure or a quiet connection with nature, discover another way to experience the Mexican Caribbean. 📷 Photo credit: Quintana Roo Tourism #FCCA #CruiseTourism #QuintanaRoo #MexicanCaribbean

🇯🇲🏆 Three cheers for Jamaica’s triple win at the 2026 World Travel Awards! FCCA congratulates our strategic partner Jamaica on earning three major honors: 🏝️ Jamaica — Caribbean’s Leading Cruise Destination 2026 🚢 Port of Ocho Rios — Caribbean’s Leading Cruise Port 2026 ⚓ Port of Montego Bay — Caribbean’s Leading Home Port 2026 These awards recognize the dedication of Jamaica’s port operators, tourism professionals and industry partners who welcome cruise visitors and deliver memorable experiences ashore. 👏 Congratulations to Jamaica Vacations Limited and everyone contributing to Jamaica’s cruise tourism success! 📸 Trudi-Ann Davidson, center, cruise manager at Jamaica Vacations Ltd., holds Jamaica’s award for Caribbean’s Leading Cruise Destination 2026, joined by Graham Cooke, right, founder and CEO of the World Travel Awards, and trophy presenter Shamara Hurst. #FCCA #CruiseTourism #WorldTravelAwards #Jamaica

🇵🇷 A warm welcome from Puerto Rico! Puerto Rico Gov. Jenniffer González Colón addressed cruise industry executives, destination representatives and stakeholders at the opening ceremony of the 32nd Annual FCCA Cruise Conference & Trade Show in San Juan. As this year’s host destination, Puerto Rico is taking center stage, showcasing its commitment to cruise tourism and the opportunities that stronger partnerships between destinations and cruise lines can bring. This week, the island’s hospitality extends from the conference floor to the experiences ashore, giving cruise executives a firsthand look at the people, culture and attractions that make Puerto Rico a memorable destination. 👏 Thank you, Gov. González Colón, for welcoming our delegates to Puerto Rico! #FCCAConference #CruiseIndustry #CruiseTourism #PuertoRico

🇵🇷 FCCA and its member cruise lines presented commemorative crystal ships to Puerto Rico Gov. Jenniffer González Colón and Puerto Rico Tourism Company Executive Director Willianette Robles Cancel during the opening ceremony of the 32nd Annual FCCA Cruise Conference & Trade Show, recognizing their support in hosting this year’s event. With presidents and CEOs of FCCA member cruise lines taking part, the presentation celebrated Puerto Rico’s strong partnership with the cruise industry and a shared commitment to advancing cruise tourism across the region. Our sincere thanks to Gov. González Colón, Robles Cancel and the entire Puerto Rico team for their hospitality and dedication to making this year’s conference possible! #FCCAConference #CruiseIndustry #CruiseTourism #PuertoRico

🚢 Four women. A shared commitment to cruise tourism. 🇵🇷 The opening ceremony of the 32nd Annual FCCA Cruise Conference & Trade Show in San Juan brought together four influential leaders: FCCA CEO Michele Paige, Carnival Cruise Line President Christine Duffy, Puerto Rico Tourism Company Executive Director Willianette Robles Cancel and Puerto Rico Gov. Jenniffer González Colón. Their presence on stage underscored the partnership between cruise lines and destinations — and the opportunities that collaboration creates for investment, local businesses and communities. 👏 Celebrating the women helping shape the future of cruise tourism! #FCCAConference #CruiseIndustry #CruiseTourism #WomenInLeadership #SanJuan #PuertoRico