Seatrade 2025: Argentina Positions Itself as a Regional Cruise Industry Leader
Argentina was present at this major event that brings together professionals from the international cruise community, with a strong public-private participation that strengthens partnerships and projects the country’s regional leadership in cruise tourism.
With strong institutional and business participation, Argentina took center stage at the 40th edition of Seatrade Cruise Global 2025, the world’s most important trade fair specializing in cruise tourism. From April 7 to 10, at the Miami Beach Convention Center (United States), the country showcased its tourism and port offerings to the sector’s key global players.
The goal was clear—consolidate Argentina’s presence in the cruise industry, create investment opportunities, and strengthen ties with leading companies.
In line with this objective, important meetings were held with companies such as Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, and MSC Cruises, reinforcing Argentina’s position as a competitive and reliable player on the international stage.
Multisector and Regional Representation
Argentina’s delegation included the Secretary of Tourism, Environment, and Sports, Daniel Scioli, along with authorities from key cruise destinations such as the City of Buenos Aires, Chubut, and Tierra del Fuego. Key institutions were also present, including the Argentine Chamber of Tourism (CAT), the Argentine Federation of Associations of Travel and Tourism Companies (FAEVYT), and the National Port Authority; as well as representatives from strategic ports such as Ushuaia and Puerto Madryn, and the company Navijets Agents.
Together with them, the National Institute of Tourism Promotion coordinated promotional and technical support actions aimed at specialized operators, strengthening the visibility of the Country Brand in a priority market such as the United States.
Looking to the Future
“Argentina has unique conditions to become a regional cruise hub, and we are taking firm steps in that direction,” said Scioli, who emphasized the federal approach of the strategy, based on coordination between provinces, municipalities, and the private sector.
Cruise tourism represents a concrete opportunity to diversify the country’s tourism offerings, increase foreign currency income, and boost regional economies, positioning Argentina on new routes and in new markets.
With professionalism and long-term vision, Argentina is solidifying its place as a strategic destination for global cruise tourism.
Ushuaia: The Starting Point for the Last Great Adventure on the Planet
Ushuaia, globally recognized as the gateway to Antarctica, continues to solidify its position as a prime destination for those seeking to explore the farthest reaches of the planet. During the 2023/2024 season, the city witnessed a record 66 cruise ships—marking a 6.5% year-over-year increase and reaching the highest number in the past eight seasons. This growth reflects the rising interest in unique experiences that blend extreme nature, adventure, and untouched landscapes.
In total, 602 port calls were recorded in Ushuaia, representing an 18.3% year-over-year increase. Of these, 74.3% were Antarctic Cruises, which saw a 9.3% increase compared to the previous season—reaffirming Argentina’s central role as a gateway to one of the most extraordinary territories on Earth. Traveling to Antarctica from the end of the world offers not only a fascinating journey, but also positions our country as the ideal starting point for an unforgettable experience.
A Segment in Sustained Growth
During the 2023–2024 cruise season in Argentina, a historic record was reached with the arrival of 618,104 international cruise passengers, representing a 17.2% year-over-year increase. This remarkable growth strengthens Argentina’s position as an increasingly attractive destination within the regional cruise circuit.
Of the total cruise passengers, 70% were non-resident tourists, highlighting the growing preference among international travelers to discover the country’s landscapes, ports, and experiences from the sea. This performance reinforces the importance of inbound tourism as a driver of economic development and global positioning.
It is worth noting that data for the 2024–2025 season is not yet available, as the season is still ongoing and has not yet concluded. Once finalized, it is expected to provide new indicators to assess the continuation of this upward trend.