Carnival Cruise Line Returning to Antigua and Barbuda

Carnival Cruise Line has reached an agreement with government officials in Antigua and Barbuda to add the island nation to its itineraries once again.

According to Cruise Critic, Carnival executives struck a new deal with Antigua and Barbuda representatives after negotiations showed that both parties wanted to continue the relationship with alterations to the former agreement.

The expanded partnership would call on Global Ports Holding to update and expand the cruise facilities at St. John’s, Antigua, to “accommodate four mega cruise vessels, homeporting operations and improved shopping experiences within the terminal.”

In March, the President of the Antigua and Barbuda Cruise Tourism Association (ABCTA) announced Carnival had canceled several scheduled calls. ABCTA president Nathan Dundas said the cruise line was shifting all four ships expected to sail to the islands to other ports.

Travelers scheduled to sail on the Carnival Breeze, Carnival Legend, Carnival Magic and Carnival Pride ships in November and beyond should talk to their travel agent about whether Antigua and Barbuda will be added to the itineraries.

Minister of Tourism, Economic Development and Investments for Antigua and Barbuda, Charles Fernandez, released a statement to Cruise Critic on the renewed relationship and its impact on the islands:

“The brands of Carnival Corporation have been partners with Antigua for many years and have contributed approximately $48 million to the Antiguan economy over the past five years. Certainly, we appreciate and respect their desire to provide a great guest experience and value to their guests visiting Antigua.”

“While some calls were rescheduled, other calls that were being considered for cancellation will now call as planned and both parties agreed to continue discussions on the possibility of having more summer calls.”