A cruise ship is seen arriving in Santorini with tourists. Some cruise-goers no longer feel welcome in European ports as local Europeans protest the volume of big ship arrivals in recent years. Anne Thimm, 63, from Shallotte, North Carolina, vowed to avoid Europe after a trip to Spain and Portugal in 2022, stating, “It was kind of like they’re sick of us. They’re sick of the cruisers.”
Cruise operators are listing fewer routes to Europe and increasing journeys to the Caribbean as backlash grows in Europe against massive cruise ship arrivals. This shift marks a significant change as only three years ago, there were 7,000 more dockings in Europe than the West Indies. With demonstrations and political interventions by local leaders becoming more prevalent, cruise-goers express concerns about feeling unwelcome in European ports.
Royal Caribbean CEO Jason Liberty acknowledged the industry’s pivot from Europe to the Caribbean. He stated that Royal Caribbean is aware of the hostile reception cruises have faced in Europe and aims to be part of the solution.
As 2024 nears its end, Bloomberg reports a 16 percent increase in ships arriving at Caribbean ports compared to the previous year. Norwegian Cruise Line has axed over 50 routes, including those to South America, Africa, and Asia, prioritizing the Caribbean and Mexico instead.
Norwegian Star, Norwegian Dawn, Norwegian Jewel, and Norwegian Jade will all be redeployed to the Caribbean Sea and Gulf of Mexico over the next two years. In addition, two new vessels – Aqua and Luna – are scheduled to join the Caribbean fleet in 2025 and 2026.
The cruise industry’s dramatic shift from Europe to the Caribbean signifies a response to growing tensions with European ports. As cruise companies navigate these challenges while seeking new destinations for travelers’ experiences, the future landscape of cruising is sure to evolve significantly in response to changing dynamics between regions.