Azamara Journey Opens Tobago’s Cruise Season With 700 Passengers

Tobago opened its 2026/2027 cruise season on Friday with the arrival of the Azamara Journey at the Port of Scarborough, carrying 700 passengers. The vessel docked at 7:30 a.m. Visitors were welcomed by dancers wearing Carnival and Tobago Heritage costumes, accompanied by drums and steelpan, before heading out on arranged tours or walking around Scarborough. THA Secretary of Tourism, Antiquities and Creative Industries Zorisha Hackett greeted passengers and outlined preparations for the season. She said the Division had worked with the Port Authority and begun improvements to the welcome area, with completion expected before the next ship arrives the following Saturday. Preparations also included training for maxi and taxi drivers and other service providers. The sessions covered customer service and updated information about Tobago’s geography, culture and history. Hackett said discussions with taxi and maxi associations had focused on providing efficient transportation and learning from challenges experienced in previous seasons. Vendors were also included in the preparation, with customer service receiving particular attention. Marketing Officer Trevicia Phillips said 42 cruise calls were scheduled for the season, including seven maiden calls. She identified November 24 at Charlotteville as the date and location of the first maiden visit, naming the vessel as the Four Seasons. The Division is working with Trinidad and Tobago Sightseeing Tours to develop visitor experiences. The organisation’s director, Charles Adam Carvalho, said preparation begins well before a vessel arrives, through discussions with cruise operators, the development of tour packages and contract negotiations. That work also involves coordinating with local providers at locations including Buccoo Reef, Angel Reef, Argyle Waterfall, the rainforest and a cocoa estate, as well as boat operators and the Roxborough Co-operative. Hackett said the wider aim was to give passengers an experience strong enough to encourage a return visit for a longer stay. The opening call therefore offered both a welcome to the season’s first passengers and an opportunity to introduce them to more of the island.