The 2025/2026 cruise ship season has officially been launched, marked by the Coral Princess making its inaugural call to Trinidad on Tuesday morning.
While the cruise ship terminal in Port of Spain bustled with activity, stakeholders in attendance underscored the serious economic potential of the industry.
Minister of Works and Infrastructure Jearlean John noted that the global cruise sector generates nearly US$73 billion annually, emphasising that it remains a highly competitive market.
“Trinidad and Tobago, we have a lot of unrealised potential and a lot of work to do because to attract more cruise ships, our country must invest in better port infrastructure.”
Minister John added that the government’s plan to unlock 142 acres of port land is expected to support major infrastructure upgrades, including a modernised cruise terminal, new hotels, marinas and other amenities. She said these improvements are intended to attract additional cruise liners and position Trinidad and Tobago to meet internationally recognised standards.
“We need better collaboration with the cruise ship lines and tourism organisation to develop attractive itineraries, unique experiences, and you can see, you’ll probably have to stop in other Caribbean islands, but the only place you’ll hear pan play the way it’s played is in Trinidad and Tobago. Welcome to the land of pan!”
She also highlighted ongoing efforts to enhance security at the Port of Port of Spain, noting that authorities have begun scanning all incoming shipping containers as part of measures to curb the inflow of illegal firearms and improve community safety.
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Tourism, Abigail Bynoe, welcomed the Coral Princess on its maiden call to Trinidad. She said incorporating the traditional crest exchange between the Port Authority and the ship’s captain into the Launch Ceremony underscored the significance of the event.
PS Bynoe added that this year’s cruise season will see 16 liners calling at the Port of Port of Spain, bringing more than 30,000 visitors. She said Tobago is expected to welcome 41 cruise calls and nearly 48,000 passengers. She stressed the wide economic impact of the sector, noting that “tourism is our gateway to the world.”