P&O Cruises to use new St Kitts terminal from winter 2027

Work has started on a new cruise terminal in St Kitts to provide a new turnaround option for P&O Cruises in the Caribbean.

The line’s two largest ships, Iona and Arvia, will sail Caribbean itineraries that start and end in St Kitts from November 2027. 

The island’s capital of Basseterre will be an additional turnaround port for Iona as part of Caribbean fly-cruise itineraries.

The development at Port Zante is designed to support continued growth of the cruise sector, with the island handling more than 950,000 passengers this season.

The terminal will feature state-of-the-art security screening and immigration systems designed to facilitate the seamless processing of guests embarking and disembarking in St Kitts, according to the island’s tourism authority.

Tourism minister Marsha Henderson said: “This groundbreaking represents months of dedication, finally taking physical shape.

“This project did not begin with the turning of the sod. It began with dialogue, trust and relationships that have been carefully cultivated over many years.

“It reflects the collective efforts of the government, our public sector agencies, technical experts, financial advisors, and private sector partners, all working toward a common goal: advancing the future of St Kitts and Nevis.

“The ceremony represents our determination to invest in infrastructure that strengthens our economy, creates new opportunities for our people, and enhances the competitiveness of St. Kitts and Nevis within the global cruise industry.”

Carnival UK and P&O Cruises president Paul Ludlow said: “We are delighted to see this significant investment in St Kitts’ new cruise terminal at Port Zante, our additional turnaround port for Iona and Arvia from autumn 2027.

“This milestone reinforces the destination’s growing importance within the Caribbean cruise sector and its commitment to delivering exceptional experiences for our guests."