<p>Cruise tourism has grown substantially over the past two decades, except during the pandemic, driven by more ships, routes, and destinations. Understanding the impacts of cruise passengers is crucial for destinations. This paper applies nonparametric and nonlinear statistical methods to analyse the determinants of cruise passenger spending in Uruguay, using survey data from the Ministry of Tourism. Results show a stable structure across periods, with country of residence as the strongest predictor, followed by occupation, group size, and seasonal factors. Demographic attributes play a secondary role, while specific interests, such as gastronomy or historical attractions, gain relevance in certain seasons. Findings highlight the need for targeted market segmentation, high value-added tourism products, and improved urban environments near port areas. Practical implications emphasise premium, short-duration experiences and coordinated public–private actions to increase expenditure and strengthen cruise tourism’s economic impact.</p>