Jamaica Vacations Limited (JAMVAC) has announced that Jamaica was recognized as the Caribbean’s Leading Cruise Destination at the 2026 World Travel Awards.
Jamaica Vacations Limited, an agency of the Ministry of Tourism, works closely with the Port Authority of Jamaica, cruise lines and other industry stakeholders to support the development and promotion of Jamaica’s cruise tourism sector.
Established in 1993, the awards recognize excellence across the global travel, tourism and hospitality industries.
The Port of Ocho Rios was also named Caribbean’s Leading Cruise Port 2026, and the Port of Montego Bay was recognized as Caribbean’s Leading Home Port 2026.
Jamaica Vacations Cruise Manager Trudi Davidson accepted the award for Caribbean’s Leading Cruise Destination 2026 during the World Travel Awards ceremony held on October 12 at the Princess Grand Hotel in Hanover, Jamaica.
Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Bartlett, described the World Travel Awards as “a significant benchmark of excellence in global tourism.”
Executive Director of Jamaica Vacations Limited, Joy Roberts, welcomed the recognition and noted that the achievement reflects the collective contribution of the people and organizations that support Jamaica’s cruise tourism industry.
“These awards really belong to the people who make cruise tourism possible in Jamaica,” Roberts said.
“They belong to our port operators, the men and women who welcome visitors at our ports, our transportation providers, tour operators, attraction operators, entertainers, craft vendors and the communities who help to create the Jamaican experience. Every one of them plays a role in making Jamaica a leading cruise destination.”
She added that the awards are especially meaningful given the challenges the industry faced after Hurricane Melissa.
“Less than a year ago, we were confronted with the devastation of a major hurricane. The recovery required tremendous effort and collaboration with various partners and stakeholders across the industry. Being recognized again on the international stage is something we can all be proud of. It speaks to the resilience of our people and the strength of our tourism product,” she said.
