Trinidad is projecting a significant jump in cruise passenger traffic this season. 

The island’s tourism officials say “all signs point” to major gains in traffic, with the season set to begin in October and run through April of 2024. 

The first ship to visit Trinidad will be Seabourn Pursuit, which will arrive on Oct. 11. 

Initial projections suggest just under 90,000 passengers and 30,000 crew on Trinidad’s shores, which would represent an 81 percent increase in passengers from last season. 

There will be 10 inaugural visits this year, along with five new cruise lines coming to Trinidad —with the latter including Seabourn, Ex Polaris, Victoria Cruises, Silver Seas Cruises and Salen Ship Management Company.

Last year, Trinidad reported 48,243 passengers across 29 calls in Port of Spain. 

“Employment opportunities flourished as the cruise season unfolded. Local guides, tour operators, taxi drivers, craft vendors and service personnel played a pivotal role in ensuring an unforgettable experience for cruise passengers,” said Carla Cupid, CEO of Tourism Trinidad. “This surge in employment not only provided income for individuals but also fostered skills development and contributed to the growth of the local tourism sector.”