On 24 October 2022 the Grenada Tourism Authority announced that the 2022 – 2023 cruise season commenced on 21 October with the arrival of Celebrity Summit, part of the Royal Caribbean Cruise Line, carrying 1,500 passengers to the port at Melville Street, St George’s.
No fewer than 202 cruise calls are scheduled this season, with an expected passenger count of 377,394, which represents an 11% increase from the benchmark 2018-19 season.
Cruise tourism derives several benefits for host destinations such as: boosting revenue, job creation, infrastructure development, professional development and cultural exchange between foreigners and citizens.
The season signals a period of economic growth for many sectors and creates an immediate multiplier effect by boosting the revenues of many local businesses such as the taxi and transportation sector, tour operators, local spice and craft vendors, artisans and restaurants.
Randall Dolland, Chairman of the Grenada Tourism Authority board remarked:
“The cruise sector is important for Grenada as it generates substantial economic activity. The GTA is committed to improving Grenada’s product offering and increasing the number of ships and calls to our ports. In addition, we want to ensure further employment opportunities for our people.”
