Three Inaugural Cruise Ship Calls last Week

Port St. Maarten started December on a high note with three major inaugural cruise calls in one week: MSC Grandiosa on December 1, Celebrity Xcel on December 4, and Marella Discovery 2 on December 7. These visits reinforce the island’s reputation as one of the Caribbean’s most in-demand and versatile cruise destinations.

With seven inaugural calls since October, the momentum is unmistakable. The arrival of MSC Grandiosa, one of the largest contemporary mega-ships, showcases the port’s ability to efficiently handle high passenger volumes and appeal to global markets, including Europe. Celebrity Xcel brings a wave of premium, experience-focused travelers known for spending more on excursions, dining, and retail, boosting the island’s economic impact. Meanwhile, Marella Discovery 2 strengthens St. Maarten’s ties with the UK market and highlights the destination’s broad international reach.

Together, these diverse ships demonstrate St. Maarten’s ability to meet the needs of multiple cruise segments—from mega-ships to luxury lines—while maintaining smooth operations and exceptional visitor experiences. It’s a testament to ongoing investments, strong partnerships, and the island’s unmatched blend of culture, beaches, and duty-free shopping.

Most importantly, this continued popularity supports local jobs and businesses, benefiting everyone from taxi drivers and tour operators to shops and restaurants. December’s inaugural calls are more than milestones—they’re a clear sign of St. Maarten’s thriving role in the Caribbean cruise industry.

If you want to see which ships are in port, check out the cruise ship schedule!