Caribbean tourism

FORT LAUDERDALE, CMC – A new survey by the United States’ Cruise Lines International Association (CLICA) shows the Caribbean as being among the top destination of cruise visitors.

 

CLIA’s executive vice president, marketing and distribution, Bob Sharak, said there has been a rise in family vacations to the Caribbean since the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks in the United States.

 

"We don't know if this is due to 9/11, but the growth is not surprising," he said.

 

"Cruising is a perfect vacation for families because it offers activities for every age traveller, supervised children's programmes and the opportunity for families to share quality time," he added.

 

The random survey of 2,426 persons had an average age of 25 years and a minimum household income of US$40,000.

 

Cruise industry officials said the Caribbean as a destination is growing at the expense of the Mediterranean mainly due to rising fuel costs, among other factors.

 

"With the Caribbean, one of the biggest advantages is there's simply more choice,” said Carolyn Spencer Brown, editor-in-chief of the Fort Lauderdale-based CruiseCritic.com.

 

 “And it's a much more flexible option.  During times of the year, when there's more variety, pricing will be more competitive as well,” she added.

 

Brown, whose customers include Disney Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. and Carnival Cruise Line, said the Caribbean is traditionally cheaper than other cruises, because it is a year-round destination.

 

CMC/nk/pr/08