Virgin Voyages’ Resilient Lady Makes Historic First Arrival in Cartagena, Colombia

Colombia celebrated a historic moment on Friday January 24th as Virgin Voyages’ Resilient Lady made its inaugural arrival in Cartagena, after departing from San Juan, Puerto Rico. This marks the first visit from the renowned U.S.-based cruise line, a significant event that underscores Colombia’s growing prominence in the global cruise industry.

On this special day, Cartagena welcomed 2,469 sailors eager to explore the city’s rich cultural and historical treasures. As the only Colombian stop on an 11-night itinerary that also includes Aruba, Curaçao, and St. Maarten, Cartagena’s inclusion represents a major achievement in enhancing Colombia’s maritime connectivity and its role as a key player in the Caribbean cruise circuit.

Sailors on this maiden voyage enjoyed immersive experiences, including tours of Cartagena’s iconic walled city, cultural activities, and culinary excursions that showcased the best of Colombian cuisine.

Strengthening Colombia’s Global Cruise Presence
“This is a key moment for Colombia,” said Carmen Caballero, President of ProColombia, the promotion agency of the country. “It is the result of years of collaboration with Virgin Voyages and other industry stakeholders. At ProColombia, we have tirelessly promoted the country’s maritime connectivity with the goal of solidifying Colombia as an attractive destination for cruise tourism. This achievement reinforces our position as a regional leader and is a victory for all Colombians.”

Lee Kayley, Virgin Voyages’ Manager Shore Excursions shared his enthusiasm: “We are thrilled to bring Virgin Voyages to Colombia for the first time. Cartagena’s unique blend of history, culture, and vibrant atmosphere offers an incredible experience for our sailors. We look forward to fostering a lasting relationship with this beautiful destination.”

Why Cartagena?

Virgin Voyages highlighted several reasons for choosing Cartagena as a key destination:

• Rich Cultural Heritage: Cartagena’s unique history, diverse gastronomy, and immersive cultural experiences stood out as major draws.
• Extended Stays: With port visits lasting up to 18 hours—and in some cases overnight—sailors can fully experience Cartagena’s nightlife and cultural richness.
• Future Commitments: Virgin Voyages has itineraries featuring Cartagena planned through 2026, with ambitions to expand its presence in the region.
• Tourism and Economic Impact: The influx of cruise sailors boosts local businesses, from restaurants to cultural attractions, driving sustainable economic growth.
• Sustainability Focus: Virgin Voyages is committed to sustainable tourism, offering free training for local suppliers to align with global environmental standards.

A Vision for Long-Term Partnership

Liliana Rodríguez, Executive President of Corpoturismo, the tourism board of Cartagena, highlighted the collaborative spirit driving the city’s success: “Today, with four ships from three major cruise lines docked in our port and hosting nearly 23,000 tourists, Cartagena reaffirms its capacity, administrative commitment, and the synergy that defines our tourism ecosystem. The arrival of Virgin Voyages further solidifies our position as Colombia’s leading cruise destination.”

This milestone not only elevates the cruise industry but also bolsters Colombia’s tourism sector, a rapidly emerging powerhouse earning global recognition and acclaim. In 2024, Colombia welcomed over 6.6 million international travelers, reflecting an impressive 8.5% growth compared to the record-breaking numbers of 2023. This steady upward trajectory has positioned Colombia as the #1 destination for U.S. travelers in South America, cementing its status as a global tourism hotspot.

"The arrival today of over two thousand tourists from the United States to Cartagena reflects the robust and dynamic tourism between our countries. Year on year, Colombia stands out as a top destination for American travellers, welcoming over 1.4 million visitors annually. This milestone also highlights the confidence of U.S. and global tour operators in Colombia's diverse offerings, further strengthening the connections that drive our economic and cultural exchange," said Daniel García-Peña, Colombian Ambassador to the United States.

Colombia’s rising prominence has not gone unnoticed. In 2025, the country earned a place in prestigious travel lists by The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and Condé Nast Traveler, reinforcing its growing reputation as a premier destination.

With a thriving tourism sector, a commitment to sustainability, and partners like Virgin Voyages investing in its future, Colombia is not just a destination— it’s an unstoppable force redefining meaningful travel experiences. The Country of Beauty is determined to continue capturing the hearts of travelers worldwide, setting the stage for long-term growth and enduring international recognition.