Ports & destinations

Porto Cruise Terminal sets new cruise records in 2024

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: Ports & Destinations Ports & Destinations; Published: 25 January 2025 25 January 2025

Cruise activity at the Porto Cruise Terminal (Port of Leixões) continues its remarkable growth of recent years, reaching new historical highs in 2024. Last year, the port welcomed 152 cruise ship calls, 15 of which were new to the port, 1 new cruise company and 6 turnaround operations, bringing 196,000 visitors to Porto & Northern Portugal.

These numbers consolidate 2024 as the best year ever for cruise activity at the Porto Cruise Terminal. Compared to the previous year, there was a 32% increase in the number of passengers and a 31% increase in the number of cruise calls.

The United Kingdom remained the largest source market for passengers with 34%, followed by the United States of America (24%) and Germany (23%). The average size of ships calling at Leixões also increased significantly, reaching a record value of 8.9 million gross tons, which represents a growth of 28% compared to 2023.

The seasonality of cruise activity on the Atlantic Coast continues to be a challenge. However, cruise activity at the port was constant from April to November, with the exception of June. September was the busiest month, with 30,409 passengers, while May had the highest number of calls with 28 cruises.

This growth is due to the joint work of the different players in the cruise industry, including the port operations and Porto Cruise Terminal teams, local authorities and economic agents. The continuous promotion of the activity with the main cruise companies has strengthened the position of the Port of Leixões and Porto Cruise Terminal as a key destination on the Atlantic Coast.

João Pedro Neves, President of Leixões Port Authority stated that “these numbers reflect the growing demand for Porto & North of Portugal by an increasing number of cruise passengers and major cruise lines worldwide, who continue to choose Leixões for their itineraries”.

João Pedro Neves also highlights that “the Region is one of the most sought-after destinations in Europe, as also proven by the record numbers registered on the Douro Waterway, which grew 11% in the number of passengers compared to 2023.”

Commitment to sustainability

APDL (Leixões Port Authority) is committed to continuing the investment that has been made in last years in port infrastructure, namely with the implementation of Onshore Power Supply (OPS) by 2030, allowing cruise ships to turn off auxiliary engines while docked, significantly reducing carbon emissions and promoting a greener and more sustainable port.

As part of the Roadmap for Energy Transition Towards Carbon Neutrality in the Port of Leixões, since the beginning of 2024, passengers and crew transportation within the Port of Leixões has been carried out using a 100% Electric Bus (Eco Bus) and towing operations for cruises are carried out by new generation tugboats, which are safer and less polluting.

Bremerhaven Cruise Port celebrates a successful first week of operations

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: Ports & Destinations Ports & Destinations; Published: 18 January 2025 18 January 2025

Bremerhaven Cruise Port, operated by Global Ports Holding (GPH), the world’s largest cruise port operator, has officially commenced its 2025 cruise season with great success. The inaugural week featured calls from Mein Schiff 3 of TUI Cruises and Amera of Phoenix Reisen, marking the start of a promising year ahead.

With over 5,900 cruise passengers welcomed, Bremerhaven Cruise Port successfully completed two homeporting operations, setting a strong precedent for the season. The collaborative efforts of the GPH regional operations team and the port staff ensured smooth and efficient operations, meeting high expectations right from the start.

Timo Schön, General Manager of Bremerhaven Cruise Port (pictured above), shared his enthusiasm: "We are thrilled to host both ships during our opening week and to begin this exciting chapter under Global Ports Holding. Together with our dedicated team, our focus is on delivering exceptional service, showcasing the unique charm of Bremerhaven, and positioning the port as a key homeport within the region.”

Looking ahead, Bremerhaven Cruise Port anticipates over 90 ship calls and 300k passengers for the 2025 season.

Situated at the heart of a vibrant port city, Bremerhaven Cruise Port offers passengers a unique blend of maritime heritage, cultural attractions, and seaside allure. Its strategic location makes it a key gateway for Scandinavian and Baltic Sea cruise itineraries, underscoring its importance in the global cruise network.

Global Ports Holding secured the concession for Bremerhaven Cruise Port in 2023, with operations beginning in January 2025. Following a seamless transition from the previous operator, GPH has hit the ground running.

Nassau Cruise Port welcomes 5.6 million passengers in 2024

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: Ports & Destinations Ports & Destinations; Published: 06 January 2025 06 January 2025

Nassau Cruise Port (NCP) has once again broken its annual passenger record, welcoming 5.6 million cruise passengers in 2024. This marks the second consecutive year of record- breaking growth for the port, underscoring the continued global demand for Bahamian travel experiences and the port’s expanding role in the country’s economic development.

In 2023, Nassau Cruise Port welcomed 4.4 million passengers, surpassing the previous year’s total of 3.2 million, signaling a consistent and impressive upward trajectory. With 5.6 million cruise visitors in 2024, the destination has demonstrated its resilience and ability to thrive amidst an increasingly competitive tourism industry.

As the largest and busiest transit cruise port in the region, NCP continues to serve as a cornerstone of The Bahamas' tourism sector. The record-breaking passenger numbers are directly linked to the substantial growth in the Bahamian economy. In 2024, The Bahamas welcomed approximately 9.1 million visitors, with 61% of them – approximately 5.6 million – arriving via cruise ships that sailed into Nassau Cruise Port.

This surge in visitors contributes directly to approximately $2.6 billion in annual tourism revenues for the nation, creating a ripple effect across a wide range of industries. Local businesses, from retailers and restaurants to tour operators and artisans, continue to benefit from the influx of cruise passengers. The continued growth of Nassau Cruise Port has created new opportunities for existing businesses while laying the foundation for a new generation of Bahamian entrepreneurs to succeed.

The expansion and modernization of NCP have also led to increased demand for workforce development, helping to provide jobs in both established sectors and emerging industries. Nassau Cruise Port remains committed to fostering a sustainable, inclusive economic environment for Bahamians.

“We are incredibly proud to reach this significant milestone for the second year in a row,” said Mike Maura, Jr., CEO of Nassau Cruise Port. “This achievement is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and collaboration of our talented team, our valued partners, and the Bahamian people. We could not have reached this point without the unwavering support of our stakeholders, including the Government of The Bahamas, our cruise line partners, local businesses, and the community at large. Together, we are shaping the future of Bahamian tourism, and I am excited to see the continued growth of Nassau Cruise Port as a gateway to The Bahamas and a source of opportunity for all.”

With ambitious plans for further expansion and improvement underway, Nassau Cruise Port is positioning itself to remain at the forefront of global cruise tourism. New developments, including enhanced facilities which facilitate transport of guests to areas of interest throughout New Providence, recreational family-oriented experiences, dining options, and sustainable practices, are expected to enhance the visitor experience and further elevate the port’s status as one of the leading cruise hubs in the region. In keeping with the company’s continued promotion of Nassau as a premier tourism destination, Nassau Cruise Port looks forward to advancing downtown-centered projects that serve to elevate the visitor experience.

“Our success story is far from over,” Maura, Jr. added. “The future promises even more growth for The Bahamas and its residents, and more incredible Authentically Bahamian experiences for our visitors from around the world.”

Record cruise passenger numbers in Malta in 2024

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: Ports & Destinations Ports & Destinations; Published: 16 January 2025 16 January 2025

A record number of cruise passengers visited Malta in 2024, surpassing the pre-pandemic peak of 2019.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism Ian Borg, Minister for Transport, Infrastructure and Public Works Chris Bonett and Valletta Cruise Port CEO Stephen Xuereb announced these results during a visit to the Valletta Cruise Port, on Wednesday morning.

More than 940,000 passenger movements were registered at the Valletta Cruise Port in 2024, 4% higher than 2019, the previous record year. During the last 12 months, the Grand Harbour received 357 cruise ship calls.

The cruise industry is a major contributor to several sectors of the Maltese economy, particularly shipping services, as well as retailers, catering establishments and other tourism services in Valletta and the Grand Harbour region. It is estimated that cruise ships berthing at the Grand Harbour contribute circa €88 million to Malta's economy every year, with Euro €38 million in spending by cruise passengers and another €50 million by the cruise line companies.

Commenting on these results, Deputy Prime Minister Ian Borg explained that the Government is determined to continue supporting this sector, while improving the overall experience of cruise passengers during their short stop in the Maltese Islands. “We want cruise passengers to enjoy their experience and put our country in their bucket list for a longer holiday next time round. To achieve this, we need a comprehensive effort by all stakeholders, not only from the private sector, but also from different government entities and authorities. This is why we are collaborating with other ministries to make sure that as a country, we intensify our efforts for a better-quality tourism product in coming years,” said Dr Borg.

During 2024, the Malta Tourism Authority continued to promote Malta as an important cruise destination in the Mediterranean. It regularly participates in the industry’s leading international fairs and expos, while investing in targeting marketing campaigns to encourage cruise operators and travellers to choose the Maltese Islands for their cruise itineraries.

Minister for Transport, Infrastructure and Public Works, Chris Bonett, emphasised the significant strides being made in sustainability through the recent investment in shore-to-ship infrastructure. The system, which has the capacity to power up to five cruise liners simultaneously, is directly improving the quality of life for thousands of families living in the vicinity of the Grand Harbour. The project is expected to cut pollution by 90% for nearby residents by 2030.

Minister Bonett further highlighted the strategic importance of the OPS (Onshore Power Supply) project, marking Malta as the first Mediterranean port to have the technology, as a pivotal initiative that reflects the country's leadership in sustainable maritime solutions. He also pointed to the extension of Quay Pinto 4-5, noting that these initiatives underscore the government’s steadfast support for the maritime industry and its long-term, sustainable growth. “These projects are a clear demonstration of our commitment to balancing economic development with environmental responsibility," Bonett affirmed, reinforcing the government's determination to continue investing in infrastructure that supports both the industry and the wellbeing of local communities.

Stephen Xuereb, COO of Global Ports Holding and CEO of Valletta Cruise Port, stated, “We are incredibly proud of the record-breaking results achieved in 2024, reflecting the cruise industry’s resilience and swift recovery post-Covid. This success is due to the collaboration of various stakeholders, and we extend our gratitude to all of them – including the Ministries of Tourism and Transport, Authorities, Ship and Shorex Agents, Service Providers, Tenants, and especially our dedicated personnel. Beyond the impressive numbers, we must continue to work towards delivering a smooth and authentic Mediterranean experience for which our Islands are globally renowned. The government is continuing its work on Quay Pinto 4-5, a crucial part of our infrastructure, and we anticipate its completion within the next year. With this development and our status as the first Mediterranean port to offer onshore power supply, we are well-positioned to ensure sustainable growth in this sector. In addition to our cruise facilities, Valletta Cruise Port issued a request for proposals for the Old Power House in December, and by mid-February, we will launch a public tender for the development of the Atrium car park. 2025 is shaping up to be an exciting year.”

Deputy Prime Minister Borg and Minister Bonett were accompanied by Malta Tourism Authority CEO Carlo Micallef, Transport Malta CEO Kurt Farrugia and Capt. Fritz Farrugia, Chief Officer & Harbour Master at Transport Malta.

Antigua Cruise Port poised to shatter annual passenger record

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: Ports & Destinations Ports & Destinations; Published: 30 December 2024 30 December 2024

This week, Antigua Cruise Port reached a significant annual milestone, welcoming four vessels and a remarkable 13,312 passengers as it approaches a record-breaking year. As of today, the port has recorded 570 cruise ship calls and 825,526 passengers for the year compared to 446 cruise ship calls and 670,234 passengers in 2023, reflecting an extraordinary year-to-date increase. These figures represent a 27% increase in ship calls and a 23% increase in passenger arrivals year-over-year. The port's overall performance underscores the increasing demand for Antigua as a key stop in the Caribbean.

Among the ships docked at the port on this day were the Norwegian Gem and Norwegian Breakaway from Norwegian Cruise Line, Arvia from P&O Cruises, and the elegant Emerald Azzurra. Notably, Arvia and Emerald Azzurra are homeporting at Heritage Quay, further solidifying Antigua’s growing reputation as a premier homeport.

Gasper George, General Manager, expressed his excitement at the day’s events, stating: “Today is a shining example of what teamwork, vision, and dedication can achieve. The significant growth we have experienced this year reflects the success of our strategic efforts to position Antigua as a leading cruise destination. It is an honor to welcome these magnificent vessels and the thousands of passengers who bring energy and vibrancy to our shores. This is just the beginning of what we can accomplish together.”

The Hon. Charles Fernandez, Minister for Tourism and Investment, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the significance of the achievement for the nation's tourism industry. “Today’s success underscores the strength and resilience of Antigua and Barbuda’s cruise tourism sector,” said Fernandez. “I am proud of how our collective investments in infrastructure and service excellence are paying off. Antigua Cruise Port’s innovative approach and tireless dedication have helped solidify our standing as a sought-after destination. This achievement is not only a win for our tourism sector but also for the economic prosperity of our communities.”

As we celebrate this record-breaking year, we remain committed to excellence and look ahead with even greater ambitions for 2025. With plans to welcome more visitors, form new partnerships, and continue delivering unforgettable experiences, Antigua Cruise Port is poised to play a significant role in shaping the future of the Caribbean cruise industry.