An estimated 18,000 cruise passengers poured into St. John’s in a single day as five major vessels docked simultaneously at Antigua Cruise Port, generating a wave of activity across the capital and beyond.

The Grand Princess, Norwegian Epic, Britannia, Explora I and Celebrity Eclipse lined the harbour, reinforcing Antigua and Barbuda’s reputation as a leading Caribbean cruise destination.

Visitors spread out to hotspots such as Dickenson Bay, Valley Church and Nelson’s Dockyard, providing a strong boost for taxi operators, tour guides, retailers and beach vendors. Tourism stakeholders said the influx delivered meaningful economic support to small and medium-sized businesses.

The high passenger volume signals continued momentum in the cruise sector, with Antigua Cruise Port drawing some of the industry’s most prominent ships as the destination sustains its growth trajectory.