ORANJESTAD (AAN) – APA Seeks Cruise Passenger Feedback to Improve Aruba Experience as the Aruba Ports Authority (APA) continues working with tourism partners to ensure Aruba remains a preferred destination for cruise visitors.
In a recent interview with DIARIO, Marc Figaroa of APA said collecting feedback from cruise passengers is an important part of improving the visitor experience and strengthening Aruba’s reputation within the cruise industry.
Cruise Connect Brings Stakeholders Together
Figaroa highlighted the launch of the first Cruise Connect event in November 2025, which was created to bring together stakeholders involved in Aruba’s cruise tourism sector.
According to him, the event provides an opportunity to:
- Share feedback from cruise lines.
- Present industry updates.
- Listen to suggestions and concerns from cruise operators.
- Identify opportunities to improve Aruba’s cruise tourism product.
APA intends to make Cruise Connect an annual event to encourage ongoing collaboration among tourism partners.
Improving the Complete Visitor Experience
Figaroa explained that while APA is responsible for the cruise product and port facilities, the overall experience of cruise passengers extends far beyond the port.
He emphasized that maintaining Aruba’s reputation as a preferred cruise destination requires cooperation between government agencies, businesses, transportation providers, and the wider tourism sector.
According to APA, every aspect of a visitor’s stay contributes to how the destination is perceived.
Welcome Plaza Enhancements
Since 2024, management of Welcome Plaza has been under APA’s responsibility.
Figaroa said the authority has encouraged businesses within the plaza to extend their operating hours on days when cruise ships are in port.
APA also encourages businesses to remain open longer even on days without cruise ships to better serve other visitors exploring the area.
To improve the appearance and comfort of Welcome Plaza, APA has invested in several upgrades, including:
- Repainting buildings.
- Installing attractive decorative barriers.
- Adding new seating areas.
- Planning the installation of a new canopy later this year.
According to Figaroa, Welcome Plaza creates the first and last impression many cruise passengers have of Aruba, making its continued maintenance and enhancement a priority.
Focus on Tram Service
Figaroa also discussed the tram service in downtown Oranjestad, noting that it plays an important role in transporting cruise passengers into the city center.
He said many visitors enjoy using the tram, and APA is currently holding discussions with partners to improve the service and make it more efficient for both residents and tourists.
Maintaining Aruba’s Position
APA believes that regularly collecting passenger feedback and working closely with industry stakeholders will help Aruba continue enhancing its cruise tourism product.
By investing in infrastructure, improving visitor services, and responding to feedback from cruise passengers and cruise lines, the authority aims to maintain Aruba’s standing as one of the Caribbean’s preferred cruise destinations.
