Overview
- The Disney Destiny’s inaugural call on Wednesday, July 1, 2026, kicked off a planned increase in visits with three Disney calls scheduled for 2026 and about 14 expected in 2027.
- Minister Grisha Heyliger-Marten said the government will work closely with Port St. Maarten to develop routes and coordinate operations to support the expanded relationship.
- St. Maarten officials estimate each Disney call brings thousands of visitors and direct spending for taxi operators, tour companies, restaurants, retailers and other local businesses.
- Officials link the rise in calls to Disney Cruise Line’s fleet growth, while warning that future itineraries remain subject to the company’s routing and operational decisions.
- The move builds on a wider industry shift: Disney has launched several new ships since 2024 and is developing additional vessels, creating new itinerary demand for Eastern Caribbean ports like St. Maarten.