The Port of Miami, often referred to as the "Cruise Capital of the World," has a rich history that dates back to the early 20th century. The Port was officially opened in 1915, with dredging operations, completed in 1916, making it a deepwater port. It was initially used for shipping, particularly for the transportation of fruits and vegetables.

It wasn't until 1968 that the Port of Miami began to transform into the cruise capital we know today. The Miami-Dade County Board of Commissioners approved a resolution to build a modern passenger terminal, signifying a shift in the port's function. Today, the Port of Miami serves millions of passengers each year, making it one of the busiest cruise ports in the world.

The port of George Town in the Cayman Islands has a rich and vibrant history. It was established in the 18th century as a small coastal settlement, and over the years, it grew into a bustling port city. The harbor was critical in the development and prosperity of the Cayman Islands, serving as a vital trade and transportation hub.

In the 20th century, George Town harbor underwent significant transformations. It expanded its capacity to accommodate larger and more sophisticated vessels, becoming a prominent destination for international cruise ships. Today, George Town harbor is not only a crucial economic engine for the Cayman Islands but also a popular tourist attraction, showcasing the island's history and culture.

The history of the Port Ocho Rios in Jamaica is deeply rooted in trade and exploration. This harbor, whose name means "Eight Rivers" in Spanish, was once a prominent fishing village. It gained economic importance during the Spanish colonial period when it was used as a shipping point for cattle and food supplies.

In the 20th century, Port Ocho Rios transitioned into a major tourist destination. The Jamaican government invested significantly in developing the infrastructure of this port, making it a popular stop for cruise ships. Today, it is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and the famous Dunn's River Falls, a major tourist attraction.

Cartagena, located on the northern coast of Colombia along the Caribbean Sea, boasts a rich and storied history stretching back thousands of years. Before the arrival of Europeans, the region was inhabited by Indigenous peoples, including the Calamarí and Puerto Hormiga cultures, who thrived on fishing and agriculture. The city was officially founded in 1533 by the Spanish conquistador Pedro de Heredia, who named it after Cartagena, Spain. Its natural harbor made it a critical port for the Spanish Empire, serving as a key hub for trade and the shipment of gold and other treasures extracted from South America. However, its wealth and strategic importance also made it a target for pirates and foreign invaders, leading to repeated attacks, including notorious raids by Sir Francis Drake in 1586.

To protect the city, the Spanish built extensive fortifications, including the Castillo San Felipe de Barajas, one of the most impressive colonial military structures in Latin America, and an elaborate system of walls that still surround the Old Town today. These defenses helped Cartagena become one of Spain’s most secure and vital strongholds in the Americas. Cartagena also played a significant role in Colombia’s fight for independence in the early 19th century, earning the title "La Heroica" ("The Heroic City") for its resistance against Spanish forces. Today, Cartagena is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, celebrated for its beautifully preserved colonial architecture, vibrant Afro-Caribbean culture, and rich historical legacy, making it one of South America’s most iconic and visited cities.

Colón, a major port city on the Caribbean coast of Panama, has a history shaped by its strategic location and role in global trade. Founded in 1850 during the construction of the Panama Railroad, the city was established to connect the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, facilitating efficient trade routes. The name "Colón", the Spanish form of "Columbus", honors the explorer Christopher Columbus. The city’s significance grew exponentially after the opening of the Panama Canal in 1914, solidifying its position as a vital hub in international maritime commerce.

Today, Colón is home to the Colón Free Zone, one of the largest duty-free zones in the world, attracting businesses and traders from across the globe. Despite its economic importance, the city has faced challenges, including periods of decline and socioeconomic struggles. Colón is rich in cultural and historical heritage, with landmarks such as the San Lorenzo Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcasing its colonial past. The city’s vibrant Afro-Caribbean culture is evident in its music, cuisine, and festivals, adding depth to its dynamic identity. While ongoing revitalization efforts aim to address its challenges, Colón remains a crucial gateway for trade and a symbol of Panama’s enduring importance in global commerce.

The Isla de Roatan in Honduras has a rich history, dating back to the time of the Mayan civilization. The island was an important trading center for the Mayans, who left behind pottery and other artifacts that have been discovered by archaeologists. In the 16th century, it was frequently visited by European explorers, including Christopher Columbus, who claimed it for Spain.

In the 17th and 18th centuries, the port of Roatan became a haven for pirates and privateers, who used the island as a base for their raids on Spanish galleons. The island was also a major center for the African slave trade. After the decline of piracy, the island became a British colony, before eventually becoming part of Honduras. Today, the port of Roatan is a popular destination for cruise ships and tourists who are attracted by its beautiful beaches and clear waters.

The history of port Ocean Cay in MSC Marine Reserve is a tale of transformation. Once a sand extraction site, Ocean Cay has been transformed into a marine reserve and private island destination for MSC Cruises. The project, which began in 2015, involved not only cleaning the industrial wasteland but also undertaking a massive marine restoration effort.

Through the efforts of MSC, this 95-acre island in the Bahamas now boasts a flourishing ecosystem. The port of Ocean Cay is unique as it is one of the first ports in the world to be built purely for cruise ship passengers. The transformation of Ocean Cay is an excellent example of how human intervention can positively impact the environment, converting a former industrial site into a thriving marine reserve.

The Port of Miami, often referred to as the "Cruise Capital of the World," has a rich history that dates back to the early 20th century. The Port was officially opened in 1915, with dredging operations, completed in 1916, making it a deepwater port. It was initially used for shipping, particularly for the transportation of fruits and vegetables.

It wasn't until 1968 that the Port of Miami began to transform into the cruise capital we know today. The Miami-Dade County Board of Commissioners approved a resolution to build a modern passenger terminal, signifying a shift in the port's function. Today, the Port of Miami serves millions of passengers each year, making it one of the busiest cruise ports in the world.