The Caribbean needs more high-end shore experiences if it wants to attract more luxury cruise ships, according to a senior cruise executive.
Jason Montague, chief luxury officer of Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Oceania Cruises, told delegates at the Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA) conference that the region needs to grow its luxury offering.
Asked whether the Caribbean currently has enough luxury experiences, Montague's answer was direct: “No, absolutely not.”
“If there were more luxury experiences, you would find more luxury ships my size coming in,” he added, referring to the smaller high-end vessels operated by the two brands.
His comments come as the global luxury cruise fleet has grown from 28 ships in 2010 to 98 in 2025. An estimated 1.7 million passengers are projected to take a luxury cruise by 2029.
Montague said destinations could build on their local culture, cuisine and heritage with private tours, intimate dining, artisan visits and customized excursions. He also pointed to the importance of knowledgeable local guides, comfortable transport and service that can adapt to individual guest interests.
The opportunity extends beyond passengers on smaller luxury ships. Montague said larger ships also attract high-end travellers through premium suites and exclusive onboard offerings, creating demand for more upscale experiences ashore.
He encouraged destinations to work with cruise lines to develop and promote distinctive excursions, saying memorable visits can turn cruise passengers into repeat visitors.
He also noted that technology and AI can help operators assess guest feedback, but said personal service remains central to luxury travel.
“Luxury is all about the people connection,” he said.
The FCCA’s 32nd annual Cruise Conference & Trade Show took place 12-16OCT in San Juan, bringing together cruise executives, government representatives, port operators and tour providers.
