Tourism Geographies, Vol.1, No.3, pp. forthcoming (return to Table of Contents for Vol.1)

Caribbean Cruise Tourism: Delusion? Illusion?

Paul F. Wilkinson
Faculty of Environmental Studies, York University, Canada

Abstract

Until recently, most Caribbean countries suffered from incomplete and unreliable tourism data focussing on simplistic measures (e.g., numbers of tourists) gathered over a short time-span, questionable analysis at a descriptive level, unrealistic predictions based on these data, and faulty assumptions — all leading to misinformed policy and planning decisions. One of the most striking aspects of this situation has been the preoccupation with increasing the numbers of cruise tourists. Yet, the benefits of the apparent growth in that sector have rarely been examined as to whether they are real or delusion. Indeed, is the growth an illusion? There are also questions about delusion and illusion related to the visitor's experience. Adequate data now exist to examine cruise tourism in a more informed light. This paper examines data from the Bahamas and suggests ways in which researchers can portray more accurate pictures of tourism and its impacts. When the negative environmental and social impacts of cruise tourism are added to this statistical information, the rationale for Caribbean governments' encouragement of cruise tourism is questioned.

Keywords: Caribbean, cruise tourism, private islands, Bahamas