Carnival sees stronger Bonaire cruise growth in 2027

Carnival Corporation is projecting double-digit cruise capacity growth in Bonaire between 2025 and 2027, with seven of its cruise lines slated to call at the island in 2027. The company says the rise could create more business for local excursions, transport, dining, retail and cultural operators while supporting sustainable tourism goals.

Why it matters: - Bonaire could see more cruise visitors and more spending in the local economy if Carnival Corporation’s projected capacity growth materializes. - The outlook matters for local businesses that depend on tourism, including shore excursions, transportation, restaurants, retail and cultural experiences. - The company is framing the growth as a test of whether cruise expansion can support tourism without undermining Bonaire’s environment and community character.

What happened: - Carnival Corporation highlighted an increased cruise outlook for Bonaire in 2027 during the annual Bonaire Tourism Summit on Sept. 24 at Van der Valk Plaza Beach Resort. - Marie McKenzie, senior vice president of government and destination affairs, delivered the presentation, “A Global Fleet, A Local Partner.” - Carnival Corporation expects double-digit growth in cruise capacity in Bonaire between 2025 and 2027 based on current deployment schedules. - Seven Carnival Corporation cruise lines are scheduled to call on Bonaire in 2027.

The details: - McKenzie said cruise tourism growth should translate into meaningful economic opportunities for local businesses and communities. - The company identified shore excursions, transportation services, restaurants, retail establishments and cultural experiences as areas where local participation can grow. - McKenzie said strong local partnerships become more important as Carnival Corporation’s presence in Bonaire expands. - McKenzie said Carnival Corporation wants cruise tourism to create opportunities while respecting Bonaire’s natural environment and the qualities that make the island unique. - McKenzie outlined five sustainability priorities: climate action, circular economy, sustainable tourism, biodiversity and conservation, and well-being, inclusion and belonging. - The company pointed to food-waste reduction, shore-power connection capabilities and onboard freshwater generation as part of its sustainability work. - Other efforts include support for reforestation, partnerships with local organizations and guest education programs promoting responsible tourism practices. - Bonaire is often part of southern Caribbean itineraries alongside Aruba and Curaçao. - The island’s appeal centers on marine environments, nature, ecotourism and outdoor exploration. - Carnival Corporation said more information about its sustainability initiatives is available through Our Impact.

Between the lines: - Carnival Corporation is signaling that destination growth and sustainability now go together in its Caribbean strategy. - The focus on local partnerships suggests the company is trying to show that higher cruise volume can deliver broader community benefits, not just more ship calls. - Bonaire’s positioning as a nature- and marine-focused destination makes environmental management especially central to any tourism expansion.

What's next: - Carnival Corporation’s 2027 deployment plans will determine how much of the projected Bonaire growth turns into actual ship visits and passenger spending. - Local businesses and destination partners will likely be watching whether the company’s sustainability commitments translate into practical opportunities on the island. - Carnival Corporation’s broader sustainability and destination work will continue to shape how the company presents growth in Caribbean ports.