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Taranto hosts the first in-person meeting of the Cruises & Port Cities Working Group

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: Ports & Destinations Ports & Destinations; Published: 23 February 2026 23 February 2026

MedCruise and AIVP, have brought the international Cruises & Port Cities Working Group to Taranto for its first in-person meeting, gathering around 30 port city professionals and experts from Italy, Spain, France, Greece and Portugal.

This initiative, stablished in 2021, promotes dialogue, best practices and cooperation between cruise ports and cities, supporting more sustainable and inclusive destination management.

Hosted by the Port System Authority of the Ionian Sea (AdSPMI), the meeting focuses on key topics such as governance, mobility and community engagement, with dedicated workshops addressing tourism flow management and collaborative approaches between port–city stakeholders and cruise companies.

The two-day programme kicked off with an official press conference in the Ketos Center, with the President of the Port of Taranto, the representative of the municipality and the harbourmaster. In this opening session, MedCruise President and President of the Corfu Port Authority, Theodora Riga highlighted the importance of a collaborative approach to cruise development, noting that: “It is a huge honour to be in Taranto and to contribute to the important work being carried out in support of sustainable port-city relations.” She added: “Cruise development is seen differently depending on perception and our role is to work towards a shared and balanced vision.”

On behalf of AIVP, Francesca Morucci the organization’s Secretary General, indicated “It is a great honour and a real pleasure for me to have taken part in this in person meeting of the MedCruise and AIVP working group. The first phase of the work, that led to the publication of the Cruise Port City Compass, already demonstrated the value of the collaboration between the two associations. In the second phase we're experimenting that the synergy between the two perspectives- the AIVP port-city approach and the cruise industry vision of MedCruise-is more essential than ever as port cities face complex challenges (ensure sustainability, balance socioeconomics impacts, manage flows, strengthen relationships with local communities, etc.) that need to be tackled with a common language, share knowledge and systematic experiences and solutions that can support a more balanced and sustainable development of the sector. This working group definitely shows how much our two associations, with their complementary expertise, can contribute to shaping innovative models for the port cities of the future.”

The second day of the gathering took place at the National Archaeological Museum of Taranto (MArTA), including an Open Lab session with local stakeholders. This moment was key to foster dialogue between international experts and local cruise ecosystem to explore strategies for enhancing cruise destinations from a sustainability perspective and defining the Group’s priorities for the year ahead.

Through this joint initiative, MedCruise and AIVP continue to support their members in strengthening port–city relations and advancing the sustainable development of cruise tourism across the Mediterranean and worldwide.

Virtuoso names nine luxury travel experiences for 2026, South Korea's Seoul top on the list

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: Ports & Destinations Ports & Destinations; Published: 09 February 2026 09 February 2026

Virtuoso, the leading global network specializing in luxury and experiential travel, is unveiling the next level of epic experiences courtesy of its global 2026 Luxe Report, an annual forecast highlighting how, where and why savvy travelers will be exploring in the year ahead. Renowned as a trusted trend predictor, Virtuoso tapped into its elite force of travel advisors from around the world to share their top recommendations for every jetsetter’s wish list.

Virtuoso’s nine must-have experiences for 2026:

1. Seoul Searching: While Japan still commands global attention, South Korea is emerging as a dynamic alternative, powered by the rhythm of K-pop, the emotional allure of its films and dramas and a creative culture continually reshaping beauty, fashion and contemporary art. Beyond the neon buzz, mist-shrouded temples provide moments of quiet reflection. Private tastings of world-class cuisine, and even simple street food and convenience-store favorites, become memorable culinary discoveries. It’s where tradition meets trend, and every street, beat and bite pulses with possibility.

2. Ice, Ice Baby: Push the “coolcation” to the extreme with an expedition that reaches both the Geographic and Magnetic North Poles. Navigating shifting ice and remote waters is a feat that few can claim, and the stark landscapes feel so surreal they could belong to another planet. Standing at the edge of the world, the vast silence and raw beauty stir a sense of wonder that remains long after the voyage home.

3. Dawn at the Vatican: Step into the Vatican Museums at first light with the clavigero, the keeper of keys, and wander through hallowed galleries in near-perfect silence. For Francophiles, a secret-access tour of Paris’s legendary opera house, the Palais Garnier, or a secluded rooftop overlooking the Arc de Triomphe, presents an equally intimate glimpse of artistry and architectural elegance. With Italy and France topping the list of solo-travel destinations for 2026, and guided tours ranking among their most requested experiences, this combination of personal enrichment and expert guidance aligns with how the solo set are exploring now.

4. An Opulent Odyssey: Adventure travel jumped two spots to number three in the 2026 top five trends, and few expeditions capture the thrill of discovery like Morocco’s Memory Road. This 1,200kilometer journey sweeps from the Atlantic coast to the edge of the Sahara, passing remote deserts, rugged mountains, lush oases and restored villages. Itineraries can be tailored to individual preferences and include a personal butler overseeing every detail. It’s not a mirage – it’s Morocco at its most magnificent.

5. Divine Depths: In Mexico’s Yucatán, descend into a hidden limestone cavern where sapphire waters shimmer softly in the natural light. Sacred to the Maya and believed to be portals to the underworld, cenotes still echo with ancient mystery. Here, the gentle ripple of water and cool stone invite a profound calm, slowing time and quieting the mind. This is a rare chance to immerse in a living legend, where nature and myth converge to restore the body and spirit.

6. High-End Harvest: Farm-to-table ranked among the top five aspects of sustainable tourism for the first time in the 2026 Luxe Report. The rise signals growing interest in regenerative agritourism, a movement focused on slowing down and reconnecting with the land in ways that are restorative yet refined. Picture sunlit vineyards in Portugal where guests learn sustainable harvesting techniques or lavender fields in Tasmania offering botanical spa rituals and multi-course dinners crafted entirely from estate-grown ingredients. Beyond farm-to-table, these experiences champion biodiversity and local livelihoods while still delivering the elegance and comfort that the affluent expect.

7. The Nile in Style: Cruise the Nile aboard a private yacht, stopping to uncover colossal temples, explore monumental tombs and wander through vibrant riverside villages. The journey unfolds at a relaxed pace, where every moment is crafted for unparalleled comfort and exclusivity. Each stop invites a deeper exploration of Egypt’s timeless marvels, allowing travelers to absorb its history in a manner that’s uniquely personal and unmistakably luxurious.

8. Real, Not Reel: Today’s luxury travelers are leaving behind staged social media moments in favor of genuine interactions that deepen understanding and appreciation of local communities. This could mean sharing one-on-one time with a maiko in Japan, joining a community-driven improvement project in Colombia or spending an afternoon with artisans safeguarding centuries-old craftsmanship in Iceland – the Luxe Report’s top emerging destination for 2026. Witnessing firsthand how communities thrive through their traditions offers a depth of connection that no screen can capture.

9. Whale-Timed Encounters: Whale watching restores perspective and reminds fortunate observers of nature’s immensity. Whether on a small-boat excursion in Monterey Bay, exploring Norway’s fjords or scanning the rugged coastline of South Africa, these majestic ocean giants are more accessible than most imagine. Responsible practices are essential, prioritizing respectful distances, minimal disruption and protection of migratory paths. For many, the result is a transformational encounter that is deeply moving in its grandeur.

More than 2,400 travel advisors across 58 countries contributed to the Luxe Report, using their extensive knowledge to identify the top trends for 2026. Working with a professional advisor unlocks a host of benefits, including special access, customized amenities and collaborative planning, backed by expertise and worldwide connections. This year, Virtuoso has seen a sustained 76 percent increase in the number of people seeking out advisors through its website.

Nassau reports another record year at the world's busiest transit cruise port

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: Ports & Destinations Ports & Destinations; Published: 01 February 2026 01 February 2026

Nassau Cruise Port has once again set a new annual cruise passenger record, welcoming an estimated 6.1 million passengers in 2025, supported by nearly 1600 cruise calls – a milestone that coincides with a historic year for tourism across The Bahamas.

The achievement represents continued year-over-year growth from 2024, when the port welcomed 5.6 million passengers across over 1,400 cruise calls. In 2025, Nassau Cruise Port recorded approximately 420,000 additional cruise passengers (about +7.0%) and over 130 more cruise calls (about +9.5%) compared to the previous year.

The port’s performance aligns with national tourism figures announced last week by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments and Aviation, I. Chester Cooper, who confirmed that The Bahamas welcomed a record 12.5 million visitors in 2025, marking the third consecutive year of record-breaking tourism performance.

“In 2025, The Bahamas welcomed an unprecedented 12.5 million visitors, the highest total arrivals ever recorded,” Cooper told Parliament. “Visitor arrivals grew 11.4 per cent year-over-year, surpassing 2024’s record and exceeding pre-pandemic 2019 levels by more than 72 per cent.”

“This milestone year for tourism underscores the critical role Nassau Cruise Port continues to play as the primary gateway for visitors to The Bahamas,” said Mike Maura, Jr. CEO & Director. “Welcoming more than six million cruise passengers in a single year reflects the confidence of our cruise partners, the strength of the destination, and the impact of ongoing investments to enhance the passenger experience and operational efficiency at the port.”

The continued growth in passenger volumes reflects several key factors shaping cruise demand, including the strong value proposition of cruise travel, rising global interest in experiential vacations, and new and upcoming destination enhancements in Nassau. Additional port amenities scheduled to debut this year – including a signature restaurant and a day club-style pool experience – are designed to further elevate the guest experience and extend visitor engagement ashore.

As one of the busiest cruise ports in the world, Nassau Cruise Port remains a key contributor to national tourism growth, supporting economic activity across New Providence and throughout The Bahamas through visitor spending, employment, and partnerships with local businesses and tour operators.

Port NOLA marks ninth year surpassing one million cruise passenger movements

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: Ports & Destinations Ports & Destinations; Published: 22 January 2026 22 January 2026

The Port of New Orleans (Port NOLA) closed calendar year 2025 with 1,067,407 cruise passenger movements, marking the ninth year the port has exceeded one million annual passengers (excluding 2020 and 2021 due to Covid) and reinforcing its position as one of the nation’s leading cruise destinations.

Port NOLA’s sustained growth comes amid strong cruise-industry momentum nationwide and positions the Port for significant future expansion, driven by the return of Royal Caribbean and the deployment of a larger Carnival Cruise Line vessel in the coming years.

“Consistently surpassing one million cruise passenger movements speaks to the strength of New Orleans as a global cruise destination and the collaborative efforts that make this success possible,” said Beth Branch, President and CEO of the Port of New Orleans and CEO of the New Orleans Public Belt (NOPB) CEO. “Cruising is a vital economic engine for our region, and with expanded service and larger ships on the horizon, Port NOLA is well positioned to deliver even greater value to Louisiana and the Gulf South.”

Cruise industry growth reflected at Port NOLA

U.S. cruise ports continue to surpass pre-pandemic passenger levels, and Port NOLA remains at the forefront of that resurgence. In 2024, the Port recorded more than 1.2 million cruise passenger movements, and momentum continued in 2025.

In March 2025, Port NOLA achieved its highest single-month total ever, with over 165,000 passenger movements, reflecting both increased capacity and strong consumer demand.

A unique cruise market advantage

Port NOLA stands apart nationally as the only U.S. port offering both ocean-going and river cruising, creating a diverse cruise portfolio that supports year-round activity and strengthens the regional tourism economy.

Key trends shaping cruise passenger movements at Port NOLA include:

– Historic growth: Cruise business reached new highs with more than 1.2 million passenger movements in 2024 and a record-setting more than 165,000 movements in March 2025.
– Significant tourism impact: Cruise activity contributes approximately $445 million in total direct and indirect economic impact, reinforcing cruising as a major economic engine for the region.
– Port NOLA’s cruise business contributes significantly to the state and local economy- offering a unique “two vacations in one experience” where 90% of cruise guests come from out-of-state, with 70% of those guests spending one or two days in New Orleans. This translates into 300,000+ hotel room nights.
– Drive-market strength: New Orleans remains a premier “drive-to” cruise market, drawing passengers from across the Gulf South with convenient access, world-class hospitality, and iconic cultural attractions.
– Growth in river cruising: As the nation’s sixth-largest cruise port, Port NOLA’s unique combination of river and ocean cruises enhances passenger choice and supports consistent, year-round visitation.

Looking ahead

With the return of Royal Caribbean service and the introduction of larger, next-generation vessels from Carnival Cruise Line, Port NOLA is poised for continued growth well into the future. Expanded cruise offerings will bring even more visitors to experience New Orleans’ unmatched culture, cuisine, and hospitality while delivering lasting economic benefits to the region.

“Reaching this milestone for the ninth time reflects both strong demand and the confidence our cruise line partners continue to place in Port NOLA,” said Steven Gauthier, Port NOLA Vice President of Cruise. “As we welcome the return of Royal Caribbean and prepare for increased capacity from Carnival, we anticipate meaningful growth in passenger volumes over the next several years.”

Piraeus Port Authority inaugurates the 2026 cruise season – new passenger record in 2025

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: Ports & Destinations Ports & Destinations; Published: 13 January 2026 13 January 2026

Piraeus Port Authority S.A. (PPA S.A.) inaugurated the 2026 cruise season with the arrival of the first cruise ships of the year, marking the beginning of a new dynamic period for cruise activity at the Port of Piraeus.

More specifically, representatives of PPA S.A. welcomed at Passenger Terminal A “Miaoulis” the Viking Vesta, the newest vessel of Viking Cruises, which is scheduled to call at the Port of Piraeus a total of 12 more times during 2026, further strengthening the company’s long-standing cooperation with Greece’s largest port.

In addition, executives of PPA S.A. also visited the cruise ship MSC Lirica, which is expected to call at the Port of Piraeus 13 times during 2026, performing partial passenger disembarkation. This confirms the continuous presence and cooperation of leading international cruise companies with the Port of Piraeus.

During 2025, the Port of Piraeus welcomed 863 cruise ships, while the total number of cruise passengers reached approximately 1.85 million, a new milestone that highlights the steadily strengthening position of Piraeus as a leading cruise destination in the Eastern Mediterranean.

On the occasion of the launch of the 2026 cruise season, the CEO of Piraeus Port Authority S.A., Mr. Su Xudong, underlined the steadily increasing momentum of cruise activity in Piraeus, noting that the port’s strategic geographical location, combined with ongoing investments and the systematic upgrading of infrastructure and services, contributes substantially to the sustainable development of the sector.

Piraeus Port Authority continues to invest consistently in the upgrading of its infrastructure and services, further enhancing the port’s position as a strategic cruise hub at both national and international level.