The cruise season has begun in Barbados and the island marked the start with a major arrival: the Ilma, the newest ship in The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection.
This boutique ship, with 224 suites, made its first stop in Bridgetown in early January.
“The Ritz-Carlton brand is recognized worldwide as a leader in luxury, hospitality and service excellence, so having the Ilma in the Port of Bridgetown is indicative of the progress made in consolidating Barbados as a world-class destination,” said Francine Blackman, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism and International Transport.
According to recent data, the cruise industry on the island is in very good shape. Through November, Barbados recorded a 23% increase in cruise ship arrivals, with a total of 649,125 passengers in the first 11 months of 2023.
The Ilma's visit was followed by those of the Norwegian Breakaway, MV Viking Sea and MS Amadea ships, which together brought another 6,101 passengers to Barbados.
There is a growing demand for cruises on small ships, especially on luxury boutique vessels.
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