Antigua and Barbuda has recorded one of its busiest cruise days, with more than 12,000 passengers arriving on the island as six vessels docked across St John’s and Falmouth Harbours.

Five cruise ships called at St John’s Harbour, while an additional vessel arrived at Falmouth Harbour, underscoring the port’s capacity to manage high volumes of visitors during peak periods.

The Antigua Cruise Port said the strong showing brought increased activity to St John’s and nearby communities, boosting foot traffic for local businesses and supporting the wider tourism sector.

Cruise tourism has been a key driver of economic growth in Antigua and Barbuda, with rising passenger numbers translating into increased demand for transportation, retail and tour services.

Officials say the country is on course to set a new record on 23 January next year, when more than 17,000 cruise passengers are expected to arrive in a single day — the highest daily total ever projected for the destination.

The latest figures highlight Antigua Cruise Port’s growing role as a major cruise hub in the Caribbean and the continued contribution of cruise arrivals to the national economy.