Cruise industry and Panama tourism see regional growth

The cruise industry is entering a new cycle of global investment and fleet renewal. According to the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) 2026 report, an order book of 60 ships between 2026 and 2037 is expected to represent approximately $71 billion in investment, a 29 percent increase over current levels.

In the South America and Panama Canal region, cruise passenger numbers reached 1.22 million in 2025, a 4.4 percent increase from 2024. Brazil remains the primary market for this region, accounting for 49.9 percent of passengers, followed by the United States at 30.2 percent and Argentina at 9.2 percent.

Simultaneously, Panama is strengthening its regional tourism appeal through initiatives like the Panama Black Weekend, scheduled for October 2026. The event offers discounts of up to 70 percent across thousands of brands to attract international travelers. Panama is specifically targeting the Ecuadorian market, which saw a 7.37 percent increase in travelers through Tocumen International Airport in 2025.