Colombia: Where Every Arrival Has Meaning

April 13th, Miami, Florida. From the moment a cruise ship docks, visitors are not just entering a destination, they are stepping into a country where biodiversity, culture, sustainability, and community are deeply interconnected.

This is one of the reasons Colombia’s cruise industry is expanding, generating approximately USD $50 million annually and playing a key role in local economies while reinforcing the country’s tourism growth. This momentum has continued into the 2025–2026 season, with cruise passenger arrivals rising by more than 20%, further solidifying Colombia’s position as a strategic stop on Caribbean itineraries. The United States remains the leading source market, accounting for over 60% of visitors, while major global cruise lines—including Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, MSC Cruises, AIDA Cruises, TUI Cruises, Holland America Line, National Geographic Expeditions, and Princess Cruises, among others—continue to expand their presence in the country. Meanwhile, AmaWaterways recently celebrated one year of operations in Colombia following the historic launch of the first luxury river cruise along the Magdalena River.

“Colombia offers a cruise portfolio as diverse as its regions. From major Caribbean routes to boutique expeditions and river journeys, the country caters to experience-driven travelers with high spending capacity. Between 2023 and 2025, more than 60% of cruise passengers were aged 60 and above, reflecting a market that values depth, comfort, and meaningful experiences,” said Carmen Caballero, President of ProColombia, the country’s promotion agency.

“This growth is supported by a strong ecosystem of partners, some of whom we are bringing as part of our Colombian delegation at Seatrade Cruise Global, including maritime service providers such as Altamar, and The Rozo Group; tour operators such as Colombia57; port authorities such as the Santa Marta Port; tourism boards from Cartagena and San Andrés Islands. Together, they ensure operational excellence, personalized experiences, and high-quality service across Colombia’s key cruise destinations,” added Caballero.

Ports with Purpose

Colombia’s ports are not only gateways: they are storytellers of sustainability and conservation. 

In Cartagena, major hub for cruise lines, Port Oasis stands as a global benchmark in sustainable tourism. More than a cruise terminal, it integrates into a wildlife conservation center that provides refuge for animals rescued from illegal trafficking. This unique experience allows visitors to connect with Colombia’s extraordinary biodiversity from the very first moment they arrive, transforming tourism into awareness and responsibility. Recognized with the GRI Infra Awards Andean 2024, Port Oasis reflects a new, more human approach to conservation, one that creates meaningful connections between travelers and nature.

In Santa Marta, sustainability is also at the core of the port’s vision. Its operations combine efficiency with environmental responsibility and cultural authenticity, offering travelers access to a destination where a snow peak mountain (the Sierra Nevada) meets the Caribbean Sea. Santa Marta continues to strengthen its position among European and North American cruise markets, welcoming visitors seeking authentic and nature-based experiences.

A Taste of Colombia: ¡Dios Mío! Coffee by Sofía Vergara

As a unique highlight at Seatrade Cruise Global this year, Colombia is featuring the ¡Dios Mío! Coffee station, a coffee brand co-founded by renowned actress and entrepreneur, Sofía Vergara, in partnership with the National Federation of Coffee Growers.

Sourced 100% from women-led farms, the brand promotes financial empowerment, leadership, and sustainability within Colombia’s coffee sector. With premium quality (84 SCA points) and growing distribution across major retail and hospitality channels in the United States and Colombia, the brand reflects the country’s ability to combine excellence with meaningful impact.

"If there's one thing I love in life is a good cup of Colombian coffee. I've always been demanding with my coffee and have always dreamed of finding a flavor outside of my country that would make me say 'Oh my God, this is really good coffee!'. Because of my stubbornness for quality, ¡Dios Mío! Coffee was born. And now, I share that authentic flavor with you, so that each sip is a hug from Colombia in your hands and a true 'oh, Dios Mío!' on your lips”, said Sofía Vergara. 

As Colombia strengthens its position within the global cruise industry, its message remains clear “tourism is not only about visiting destinations, but also about protecting biodiversity, empowering communities, celebrating culture, and delivering experiences that leave a lasting impact. Because in Colombia, every journey has the potential to become part of something greater”, Caballero concluded.

Visit Colombia The Country of Beauty at booth 1191.