Cruise lines flee Europe’s “Tourismphobia” for Caribbean profit boom – Travel And Tour World

The cruise industry is increasingly turning its back on Europe, grappling with rising protests, regulations, and charges, and is instead finding a haven in the Caribbean.

European port visits by cruise ships, once 7,000 more annually than the Caribbean, are now nearly equal, signaling a major shift in the industry.

Europe’s Tough Stance on Cruise Tourism
A growing wave of discontent in Europe has led to stringent measures against cruise tourism.

Cities like Amsterdam have banned cruise ships from city centers, aiming to relocate terminals by 2027 to address pollution and overcrowding.

Similarly, Venice implemented a ban on large cruise ships entering its historic center in 2021 to protect its fragile lagoon ecosystem.

Other destinations, including Barcelona, Dubrovnik, and Santorini, have imposed caps on daily visitors or restricted ship arrivals to combat overtourism and environmental concerns.

The European Travel Commission reported a 14% rise in tourism revenue in 2024, with Spain, Greece, Italy, and France leading the growth.

However, cruise passengers, such as Anne Thimm from North Carolina, have reported feeling unwelcome.

Protesters in Barcelona have blasted water pistols at tourists, while environmental activists in Marseille formed blockades, preventing ships from docking.

Marie-Caroline Laurent, European Director of Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), acknowledged the growing hostility, stating, “Tourismphobia is impacting destination reputations, and it’s leading to considerations for adapting itineraries.”

Caribbean: The New Cruise Paradise
In contrast, the Caribbean has emerged as a beacon of opportunity for cruise lines.

The region offers year-round sailing opportunities, lower operational costs, and cooperative government relations.

Private island investments, such as Royal Caribbean’s “Perfect Day at CocoCay,” have redefined cruising experiences.

These exclusive destinations allow cruise lines to sidestep port fees and government taxes, boosting profitability.

Royal Caribbean is expanding its private island portfolio with “Perfect Day Mexico,” a major project set to replicate CocoCay’s success.

Similarly, Carnival Corporation is developing “Celebration Key,” a $930 million private island in the Bahamas.

Other cruise lines, including Norwegian Cruise Line and Princess Cruises, have followed suit, building private destinations to ensure higher returns.

Royal Caribbean CEO Jason Liberty called CocoCay a “game changer,” attributing significant revenue growth to the private island model.

The brand’s CEO, Michael Bayley, added that demand for exclusive offerings has exceeded expectations, with ships like Icon of the Seas and Utopia of the Seas sailing year-round to these destinations.

Profits Soar Amid Caribbean Investments
Despite the pandemic’s devastating impact, the cruise industry is thriving.

The three largest cruise companies—Royal Caribbean Group, Carnival Corporation, and Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings—are reporting record profits.

Kenneth Kuhrt of Ariel Investments noted, “Royal is getting some of the best returns in all of cruise right now, thanks to CocoCay.”

The Caribbean’s stable regulations, welcoming reception, and ability to operate year-round provide a stark contrast to Europe.

Local communities in the Caribbean often greet cruise passengers with cultural ceremonies and handcrafted goods, fostering a sense of hospitality.

The Future of Cruise Itineraries
As cruise lines invest heavily in private island infrastructure, European destinations face declining ship visits. The Caribbean’s year-round sailing potential, coupled with exclusive experiences, positions it as the industry’s preferred region.

Royal Caribbean plans to include private island stops in every Caribbean itinerary, with Bayley noting, “The demand for these experiences has been extraordinary.”

The shift underscores a pivotal moment for the cruise industry, where profitability and favorable reception guide the future of itineraries.

As Europe grapples with overtourism and environmental activism, the Caribbean solidifies its role as the ultimate cruise destination.