KINGSTON, Jamaica- Marc Melville, chief executive officer (CEO) of Chukka Caribbean Adventures says the company has intensified investments in anticipation of a major cruise shipping boom in the region over the next five years.

“Jamaica, and by extension the Caribbean cruise industry, is poised for significant growth over the next five years, cementing the region’s position as a global leader in cruise tourism. This growth is intrinsically tied to Chukka’s continued success, as we remain a key partner in delivering authentic, adventure-filled experiences that make the Caribbean a top destination for cruisers,” Melville noted.

Jamaica welcomed over 1.3 million cruise passengers last year.

“With our year-round appeal, rich cultural diversity, and breath-taking natural beauty, Jamaica and the Caribbean offer unmatched experiences for travellers seeking adventure, relaxation, and connection,” he added.

In a release from Chukka, Melville underscored that global cruise tourism passenger numbers for 2024 came in at approximately 36.3 million, with the Caribbean hosting 15.4 million passengers, 42 per cent of the global total.

These numbers, he said, highlight the region’s strong position within the cruise industry and its capacity for sustained growth, adding that in 2025, projections show an increase to 37.9 million global passengers, with the Caribbean welcoming 16.3 million, or 43 per cent of the global share.

Melville said that looking further to 2029, the industry is expected to reach 43 million annual passengers, with the Caribbean anticipated to attract 17.8 million.

“This represents an increase of over two million passengers to the region since 2024 – a 15.6 per cent growth. Such steady gains clearly demonstrate the region’s resilience and potential, underscoring the opportunities available to those invested in the Caribbean’s success as a premier cruise destination,” he said.

“One of the increasing trends coming out of this growth are shorter itineraries, with more frequent visits to destinations like the Bahamas and select parts of the Caribbean. While private islands have become a central feature of these itineraries, the region as a whole continues to benefit from the trend. Chukka Caribbean Adventures is proud to offer unique, immersive excursions that go beyond the typical cruise experience,” he added.

The Chukka CEO argued that the company’s

nature-adventure tours and culturally-driven experiences ensure that every guest leaves with a deeper connection to the rich heritage and natural beauty of Jamaica and the Caribbean, adding that Jamaica has long been one of the Caribbean’s top cruise destinations, and that this will only strengthen in the coming years with the growth of new mega-ships.

He further noted that Jamaica’s infrastructure, cultural appeal, and natural beauty make it an essential stop on any Caribbean itinerary.

“At Chukka, we’ve been proactively preparing for this inevitable growth by expanding our offerings and strengthening partnerships with cruise lines to remain a key player in new itineraries for mega and luxury ships. Our commitment to nature-adventure tourism, coupled with deep roots in local communities, ensures that every excursion contributes to the long-term sustainability of the tourism industry in the islands we operate,” said Melville.