Another Record-Breaking Year for the Busiest Caribbean Cruise Port: 5.6 Million Visitors in 2024

What’s the most popular cruise port in the Caribbean? The answer is Nassau in the Bahamas. This year, the port broke another record.

A Record Number of Passengers

In 2024, Nassau Cruise Port clocked 5.6 million cruise visitors. In 2023, they hit 4.4 million. Both of these totals were all-time records, so Nassau just keeps growing. The port has clearly recovered from the pandemic.

It has also benefitted from a new walkable layout after a massive redevelopment completed last year. Upgrades are continuing, with new restaurants and transportation facilities being planned. The new cruise terminal includes a variety of vendors, including not just food and tour operators, but local crafts.

Growth Despite Problems

This record growth is occurring despite multiple travel advisories warning about travel to the Bahamas. For the U.S., the Bahamas have been at Level 2 (“Exercise Increased Caution”) since January 2023. The Bahamas has seen heightened violent crime and gang activity, but travel experts say these beautiful islands are still safe. as long as you stay vigilant and travel with others when possible.

While Nassau itself has high levels of crime, the Cruise Port is under heightened security and you can travel from there directly to your destination.

Why So Popular?

The Bahamas remains a popular destination because of well-designed resorts, beautiful beaches, and a vibrant culture that is well worth visiting. The port itself includes a 3,000 person amphitheater and the Bahamas Museum of Junkanoo. Visitors can get easy transportation to other parts of the island or dine ashore in the port itself.

Given continued growth, the plan is to expand the facilities further, with more family-oriented experiences. It is likely that Nassau will continue to grow in popularity and remain a stop on most Caribbean itineraries.

Nassau is expected to continue to grow over the years, with more and larger cruise ships giving passengers a taste of this beautiful island.