Maldives records nearly twofold increase in cruise tourist arrivals

The number of tourists arriving in the Maldives via cruise liners has almost doubled this year compared to the same period last year, according to the latest figures released by the Tourism Ministry.

As of last Tuesday, cruise liner arrivals had reached 15,577, a substantial increase from the 8,263 recorded during the same period in the previous year. This reflects an approximate 87 percent rise in cruise tourism arrivals.

Monthly figures show that February recorded the highest number of cruise visitors, with more than 5,000 arrivals, followed by March, which saw over 4,000 tourists arriving through cruise vessels.

Despite the significant growth in cruise arrivals, total tourist arrivals so far this year stand at 1,281,360, representing a slight decrease compared to the previous year. Ministry statistics show that the Maldives is currently receiving an average of 5,932 tourists each day.

China continues to lead as the largest source market, contributing 17 percent of total tourist arrivals. Russia ranks second with more than 100,000 visitors, while the United Kingdom holds third place with over 99,000 arrivals.

The tourism industry encountered several challenges earlier this year. Following the sudden military strikes carried out by the United States in Iran on February 28, travel routes through the Middle East, a key transit region for many visitors traveling to the Maldives, faced major disruptions.

The continued geopolitical instability in the Middle East resulted in widespread travel delays and cancellations. As tensions continued, increasing travel costs further intensified the impact on the global tourism sector, including the Maldives.