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B M & T ••• November/December 2025 ••• www.blackmeetingsandtourism.com 45 C R U I S E N E W S Martinique has posted a nearly 11% jump in cruise arrivals for the 2024–2025 season, up from about 421,000 the previous year to more than 465,000 embarking and disembarking pas- sengers across over 200 ship calls — a clear sign of the island's rising appeal as both a homeport and transit destination. The French Caribbean island now ranks among the region's fastest- growing cruise hubs, a momentum further boosted by MSC Cruises' recent announcement to resume year-round opera- tions in Martinique starting in 2027. "These numbers represent more than growth. They demon- strate how Martinique is evolving into a must-visit Caribbean desti- nation," said Muriel Wiltord, Director of the Americas for the Martinique Tourism Authority. "The return of year-round cruising operations validates our strategic investments in infrastructure and the guest experience." MARTINIQUE CRUISE SECTOR SURGES WITH RECORD NUMBERS MSC Cruises' return to Martinique marks a transformative moment for the island's cruise sector, with MSC Opera set to launch itineraries from Fort-de-France for the winter 2026/2027 and summer 2027 seasons which is the first summer homeport operations in recent years. This strategic move aims to drive year-round tourism and deliver a substantial economic boost to the island. During this upcoming cruise season, Martinique will wel- come vessels from more than 30 cruise lines across its eight active ports. The island will see calls from nearly all major cruise brands based in Europe, the UK, and North America. Ships of every size and segment, including boutique vessels, mega-ships, contemporary, premium and ultra-luxury classes, are slated to visit, reinforcing Martinique's appeal across the global cruise market. To support this growth, substantial infrastructure invest- ments are underway. The Grand Port Maritime de la Martinique recently completed a new passenger walkway at the Pointe Simon terminal. In October 2025, a new cruise vil- lage featuring eight kiosks and tented spaces opened, providing dedicated facilities for local artisans, tour operators, taxi servic- es and other key stakeholders. "Martinique's cruise sector continues to evolve with a strong focus on sustainability, quality experiences and local community impact. These results lay the foundation for an even more dynamic future as we prepare for year-round oper- ations," added Wiltord. With record passenger numbers, strategic infrastructure enhancements, and year-round deployment secured, Martinique is fast becoming a leading force in Caribbean cruise tourism. For more information on cruising to Martinique, visit www.martinique.org. ABOUT MARTINIQUE Martinique, often referred to as the Caribbean island with French flair, the Isle of Flowers, the Rum Capital of the World, and the Isle of the famed poet Aimé Césaire, ranks among the world's most enchanting destinations. As an overseas region of France, it features modern and reliable infrastructure, including well-maintained roads, utilities, hospitals, and telecommunica- tions services on par with any other part of the European Union. The island's unspoiled beaches, volcanic peaks, lush rain- forests, and more than 80 miles of hiking trails and waterfalls make it one of the Caribbean's premier natural wonders. This unique blend of modern conveniences, pristine nature, and rich cultural heritage has earned Martinique several prestigious dis- tinctions in recent years. It was featured on The New York Times' "52 Places to Go in 2023" list, named "Best Caribbean Destination" by About.com, and recognized as the "Top Caribbean Island for Delectable Dining" by Caribbean Travel & Life. The Bay of Fort-de-France, fronting the island's vibrant