FORT-DE-FRANCE — Martinique has posted a nearly 11% jump in cruise arrivals for the 2024–2025 season.

That’s up from about 421,000 the previous year to more than 465,000 embarking and disembarking passengers across over 200 ship calls.

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 operations in Martinique starting in 2027, said Muriel Wiltord, Director of the Americas for the Martinique Tourism Authority.

“These numbers represent more than growth. They demonstrate how Martinique is evolving into a must-visit Caribbean destination,” said Wiltord. “The return of year-round cruising operations validates our strategic investments in infrastructure and the guest experience.”

MSC Opera is set to launch itineraries from Fort-de-France for winter 2026-2027 as well as summer 2027, which is the first summer homeport operations in recent years.

Wiltord said the move aims to drive year-round tourism and deliver a substantial economic boost to the island.

For the upcoming cruise season Martinique will welcome 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. The list of ships includes boutique vessels, mega-ships, contemporary, premium and ultra-luxury classes.

The Grand Port Maritime de la Martinique recently completed a new passenger walkway at the Pointe Simon terminal. By October 2025, a new cruise village featuring eight kiosks and tented spaces will open, providing dedicated facilities for local artisans, tour operators, taxi services and more.

“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 operations,” said Wiltord.