Published on Thursday, April 10, 2025
By the A.M. Costa Rica staff

Costa Rica is seeking to increase cruise ship tourism from the United States, as representatives from the Costa Rican Tourism Institute (ICT) participate in the Seatrade Cruise Global 2025 Fair, held this week at the Miami Beach Convention Center.

The event is considered the leading global gathering for the international cruise industry, according to ICT officials. More than 80 cruise lines, tour operators, suppliers, and travel agencies from across the world are attending, alongside tourism representatives from regions including Europe, the U.S., Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean and South America.

Authorities emphasized that maritime tourism creates jobs along the country’s coasts. When cruise ships dock, passengers often disembark for excursions, directly benefiting local tour operators, artisans, and small businesses.

Private sector participation from Costa Rica includes companies such as Tam Travel Corporation, Asuaire Travel, Nautica Shipping Agents, ST Costa Rica, and Destination Services Costa Rica, among others.

While attendees explored competitor booths, ICT officials held meetings with representatives from major cruise lines, the Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association, and the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) to discuss new partnership opportunities.

At the Costa Rica booth, representatives provided general information about the country, its ports, entry requirements, health protocols, tourist attractions, and available services.

ICT reports that during the most recent Caribbean cruise season (October 2023 to May 2024), 100 cruise ships docked at Costa Rican ports, bringing more than 190,000 cruise passengers and an additional 80,000 cruise staff into the country.

As part of its broader strategy to boost tourism, Costa Rica recently launched a new marketing campaign in Germany, featuring a fleet of 100 electric taxis wrapped in colorful banners showcasing the country’s diverse flora and fauna.

Tourism remains a cornerstone of Costa Rica’s economy. The country welcomed over 2.6 million visitors in 2024, a 7% increase over 2023.

In 2024, tourism generated more than $5.4 billion in foreign exchange, according to data from the Central Bank.

The ICT is tasked with promoting tourism and supporting infrastructure development across the country.

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What additional strategies do you think Costa Rica should explore to attract even more tourists? We would like to know your thoughts on this story. Send your comments to news@amcostarica.com