Over the last few years, the number of cruise ships serving the Caribbean has steadily grown. In 2011, 212 ships sailed the region, whereas today there are 235. That number is likely to rise again for the 2015 cruising season, as four more ships are scheduled to cruise Caribbean itineraries.
The Caribbean has long been an incredibly popular cruise destination—number one in the world, in fact! This is largely because of its proximity to the huge North American market, as well as its year-round itineraries. Having such a large selection of ships and specific itineraries to choose from has kept prices down for passengers. Of course, this is fantastic news for cruisers seeking bargains. There are a great number of cruises currently available for less than $100 per night on many cruise lines throughout the Caribbean.
On the other hand, low prices pose special challenges for the companies that provide them. According to Cruise Critic, competing cruise lines universally agree that low rates are an unfortunate part of doing business in the Caribbean, especially during low season. Cruise companies are attempting to balance out pricing by situating ships to more effectively serve markets farther from the southeastern US ports in Florida. Several vessels will be relocated to homeports in Texas and California so that more cruise enthusiasts in the American West and Midwest can enjoy an ocean vacation without buying an expensive flight to get there. Other ships will be moved even farther in order to service growing markets in Asia.
Despite industry corrections, however, the Caribbean will remain an extremely popular destination for the foreseeable future—and that means it will stay an affordable cruise option for years to come.
