Historic High as Nassau Port Sees Cruise Passenger Boom

The Nassau Cruise Port (NCP) is all set to celebrate the end of the year with a bang.

NORWEGIAN SKY NASSAU
(CRUISE RADIO)

As the Bahamian port took stock of its November numbers, it recorded its highest number of passengers even before 2023 ended, surpassing its 2019 record by thousands.

By the end of November, NCP counted 3,869,003 passengers, nearly 10,000 more than its 3,859,183 visitors from 2019. 

Chief Executive Officer Mike Maura Jr. credited the achievement to the NCP’s team, the Bahamian government, the local community, and its industry partners. “Together, we have transformed the Bahamian cruise tourism product and brand, quickly turning Nassau into a premier destination for cruisers around the world. The best is yet to come,” he concluded.

With one month left before the year ends, a statement from the Nassau port revealed that it is working on registering 4.2 million passengers for 2023—a new and impressive annual record if it is achieved.

Cruise passengers surpassed 2019

nassau cruise ship carnival norwegian
(CRUISE RADIO)

Meanwhile, the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation had good news. Yesterday, it announced that the Bahamas broke another record—having the most number of visitors in 2023, a tally that counts the people who arrived in the country by air and sea. 

In 2019, the island nation hosted 7.2 million visitors. According to the latest figures for 2023, it welcomed over 8 million arrivals.

“This historic milestone in visitor arrivals is a clear indicator of the unique charm and richness of our 16-island destination… We ensure every traveler’s journey is not just a visit, but an unforgettable, enriching experience that beckons a return to our beautiful shores,” said Director General of Tourism Latia Duncombe.

Earlier this year, NCP introduced a revitalized cruise port that simultaneously accommodates more cruise ships. The government will also implement new fees and tax hikes for cruise passengers beginning January 2024.