Nassau Cruise Port (NCP) has broken its annual passenger record, welcoming 5.6 million cruise passengers in 2024. This marks the second consecutive year of record- breaking growth for the port, reflecting global interest in travel to Nassau-Paradise Island and the Bahamas.
In 2023, Nassau Cruise Port welcomed 4.4 million passengers, surpassing the previous year’s total of 3.2 million.
As the largest and busiest transit cruise port in the region, NCP’s record-breaking passenger numbers are directly linked to the substantial growth in the Bahamian economy. In 2024, The Bahamas welcomed approximately 9.1 million visitors, with 61% of them – approximately 5.6 million –arriving via cruise ships that sailed into Nassau Cruise Port.
This surge in visitors contributes directly to approximately $2.6 billion in annual tourism revenues for the nation, creating a ripple effect across a wide range of industries. Local businesses, from retailers and restaurants to tour operators and artisans, continue to benefit from the influx of cruise passengers.
The port has ambitious plans for the future with new developments including enhanced facilities to facilitate the transportation of guests to areas of interest throughout New Providence.
“Our success story is far from over,” says Mike Maura, Jr., CEO of Nassau Cruise Port. “The future promises even more growth for The Bahamas and its residents, and more incredible Authentically Bahamian experiences for our visitors from around the world.”
The new Nassau Cruise Port currently includes six new and expanded berths to accommodate the largest cruise ships in the world, a 230-m. mega yacht berth, a new marina, and a new water excursion and ferry terminal.
The recently upgraded US$300 million waterfront features over 60 retail stores including new food & beverage outlets, the Bahamas Museum of Junkanoo, a wine bar & art gallery, and a 3,000-person amphitheatre that currently features top Bahamian and international entertainment.
Other notable changes include the addition of a new arrivals terminal, new outposts for the Royal Bahamas Police Force and the Royal Bahamas Defence Force, a new Ground Transportation Area to support smooth taxi and tour operations, a hair braiders pavilion, and a signature event space overlooking the harbour.
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