Five-ship day opens cruise season

GREAT BAY--The first five-ship day of the season took place today, signaling the start of the 2025, 2026 high season. In port were Azamara Quest, Star Pride, Valiant Lady, Star of the Seas, and Independence of the Seas, bringing thousands of visitors to the island and stimulating economic activity.

The 2025, 2026 cruise schedule features calls from major lines throughout the season. The full schedule is available on Port St. Maarten’s website, www.portstmaarten.com. Port St. Maarten CEO alexander Gumbs said St. Maarten is not just welcoming ships, "we are welcoming a key driver of the local economy."

The next five-ship day is scheduled for Tuesday, November 11, 2025, the country’s national day. The vessels expected are Britannia, Mein Schiff 2, Celebrity Reflection, Caribbean Princess, and Icon of the Seas. The first six-ship day is set for Tuesday, November 25, 2025, with Britannia, Mein Schiff 2, Icon of the Seas, Renaissance, Carnival Magic, and Carnival Vista.

This influx of visitors reflects continued confidence in the port’s facilities and in the experience the destination offers. The focus now is to ensure this momentum translates into tangible benefits across the island.

A busy season delivers immediate gains for the business community. Each passenger is a potential customer for taxi drivers, tour operators, restaurants, shops, and boutiques. This revenue helps small and medium-sized enterprises sustain jobs, invest in operations, and improve quality of life for families across St. Maarten and Saint-Martin. Success is measured by the performance of every business that serves our visitors.

Maximizing these benefits requires more than high passenger volumes, it requires consistent service excellence. From the greeter at the pier to the retail clerk and the excursion guide, the service sector is the face of St. Maarten. Stakeholders are urged to be prepared, to deliver timely, professional, and courteous service, to maintain clean and welcoming establishments, and to offer authentic, high-quality products.

Providing five-star service leads to positive reviews, repeat business, and word-of-mouth that supports future growth as a cruise destination.

“I have immense confidence in the professionalism and passion of our island’s workforce. Let us unite to deliver an unmatched visitor experience throughout the 2025, 2026 cruise season. The port has done its part in securing the business, now let us all do our part in delivering the service that justifies our reputation as the premier number one leading Caribbean port destination. We look forward to a rewarding and prosperous season for every resident and business owner who contributes to the vitality of St. Maarten’s cruise tourism industry,” Port St. Maarten Group Chief Executive Officer Alexander Gumbs said.

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