Cayman Islands Votes Against Expanding Cruise Infrastructure
The voters of the Cayman Islands have spoken – and cruise fans may not like their verdict.
Following an intense effort from the Association for Advancement of Cruise Tourism (ACT) in Grand Cayman to get a cruise infrastructure expansion project on the ballot in 2025, the proposal has ultimately been rejected.
The election was held on April 30, 2025 – with 11,973, or around 64% of the vote, answering “no” when asked “Should the Cayman Islands develop cruise berthing infrastructure.” Only 5,417 voted “yes.”
If approved, two new piers would have been built. The new berths would have been able to accommodate up to four ships at once – including larger cruise ships, such as Royal Caribbean’s Oasis-class vessels, that are not currently able to call on the tender-only port.
Additionally, the investment would have added a new cruise terminal, new retail spaces, and a transportation area in hopes of attracting more attention from the major cruise lines.
The project was set at a proposed cost of $150 to $200 million – with some of the funds coming from Carnival Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean.
But throughout the campaign, the activist group Cruise Port Referendum (CPR) Cayman strongly opposed the port proposal – and are now celebrating their victory.
While ACT has worked tirelessly to improve and expand infrastructure to keep up with the growing popularity of cruising the Caribbean, CPR Cayman has consistently argued that existing infrastructure needs to be improved first.
They also argued that increasing cruise ship calls could hinder the quality and way of life for the 73,038 residents who live on the Cayman Islands.
“It’s official: Cayman has VOTED NO. In the 30 April 2025 referendum, 64% of voters said NO to cruise berthing infrastructure — a clear message that Caymanians support a smarter, more sustainable path forward. This is a win for our economy, our environment and our way of life,” CPR Cayman posted on Facebook.
A spokesperson for CPR Cayman also told Cayman Compass, a local news outlet, that ACT’s proposal was missing “pertinent details, cost projections and failed to address the concerns the public expressed regarding the legitimate environmental, financial and socio-economic concerns.”
What Happens Next for Cayman?
Now that the people have spoken, any plans to move ahead with new cruise tourism facilities will have to be put on hold for the foreseeable future. Either way, both activist groups have different ideas on how the local government should proceed.
ACT, who lost in the election, was disappointed – but vowed to keep fighting for improved cruising facilities.
“While we are deeply disappointed by the result, and concerned about the likely negative impact this will have on our sector, we remain committed to advocating for a sustainable and competitive cruise tourism industry,” ACT wrote on Facebook.
“The livelihoods of many Caymanians are tied to this vital pillar of our economy, and ACT will continue to work toward securing long-term opportunity for our people and our country,” the post continued.
Read Also: Grand Cayman Cruise Port – Terminals, Tendering and Getting Around
CPR Cayman, meanwhile, said that the voice of the people was “loud and clear” – and has encouraged local leaders to listen to their people and focus on improving existing infrastructure.
“Now, CPR Cayman urges the new Government to: Invest in affordable, environmentally responsible upgrades to existing tender facilities; prioritize visitor satisfaction without compromising our natural beauty; enact modern, fair referendum laws to protect democratic process in the future,” the organization shared on social media.
“The future of tourism in Cayman is sustainable, high-value, and community-focused. Let’s keep working together — for a Cayman that thrives without sacrificing what makes us unique,” they continued.
It will be interesting to see how potential improvements impact the Caribbean port’s appeal for the major cruise lines, as the number of visitors to Grand Cayman has dropped significantly – going from over one million cruise guests in 2023 to less than 750,000 in 2024.
Cayman Islands Votes Against Expanding Cruise Infrastructure