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Port of Seattle reports record cruise passenger numbers

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: Ports & Destinations Ports & Destinations; Published: 23 October 2025 23 October 2025

The Port of Seattle announced this week the completion of the 2025 cruise season. The record cruise season delivered an estimated $1.2 billion in regional economic benefit, while providing more than 5,120 individuals direct and indirect jobs throughout the season. The season also saw a record number of passengers and sailings, plus significant shore power use by ships in berth:

– 298 total ship calls across 8 home port cruise brands operating 14 different ships
– 1.9 million revenue passengers
– 2025 set a new record with 65% of ships utilizing shore power at berth as the Port approaches the 2027 date for 100% utilization by homeported ships
– The Port supported Carnival Corporation in the first biofuel demonstration project in the Seattle cruise market, testing biofuel bunkering on three Holland America Line sailings
– Cruise ships made 23 sailings to destinations other than Alaska including Mexico, Hawaii, New Zealand, and Asia, plus coastal cruises along the Pacific Northwest

“Seattle set new standards this season on environmental sustainability and economic development by focusing on a shared vision across the Port and our cruise partners,” said Port of Seattle Executive Director Steve Metruck. “We are not just preparing for the future – we are building it. With major infrastructure investments we are preparing for the 2027 requirement that all home port ships connect to shore power at the dock. Through our Pacific Northwest to Alaska Green Corridor and partnership work we are advancing market development for alternative maritime fuels such as green methanol and renewable biodiesel. Our cruise line partners are making deeper investments locally as well to expand economic activity, the impact of which we estimate to be worth $1.2 billion each year. We end this season in a very strong position and look forward to an even better 2026.”

During the season, the Port welcomed Cunard’s Queen Elizabeth for its first Seattle home port season. Queen Elizabeth, whose maiden call was on June 12, operated 11 roundtrip voyages out of Seattle and will return in 2026.

“Seattle is a premier home port for unforgettable Alaska cruise experiences, and the cruise industry is proud to bring significant economic impact to the region while showcasing the Pacific Northwest’s beauty, attractions, local businesses, and stunning new Waterfront Park,” said Sally Andrews, Vice President of Communications for Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA). “As the 2025 season ends, we celebrate another successful year of collaboration, innovation, and advancing sustainability goals.”

This year also marked the first time shore power was available at all three cruise berths. Sixty-five percent of ships plugged into the shore power, up from 42% in 2024, avoiding an estimated 1.67 tonnes DPM (diesel particulate matter) and more than 6,185 tonnes of CO2e from emissions. This shore power utilization demonstrates how the Port and its cruise line partners are meeting the evolving environmental needs and capabilities of the cruise industry.

Seattle continues its Port Valet program, which transfers bags directly from cruise ships to SEA, giving cruise visitors an opportunity to explore Seattle’s unique sights, sounds, and flavors before they head to the airport. This year, the service handled over 200,000 bags, allowing thousands of cruisers to enjoy the city luggage-free. Looking ahead, the 2026 cruise season will feature two new homeported brands when Virgin Voyages Brilliant Lady and MSC Cruises Poesia arrive in Seattle. A preliminary 2026 cruise schedule is available for download from the Port’s website.

Global Ports Holding signs 15-year concession to operate Casablanca cruise port

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: Ports & Destinations Ports & Destinations; Published: 21 October 2025 21 October 2025

Global Ports Holding, the world’s largest independent cruise port operator, has announced that it has signed a 15-year concession agreement with Agence Nationale des Ports to operate the Cruise Terminal in Casablanca.

The concession was awarded to a majority-owned consortium between GPH (51%) and its local shareholders, following a public tender process. The consortium will take over operations from January 2026.

This milestone follows the recent inauguration of Casablanca’s new state-of-the-art cruise terminal by His Majesty King Mohammed VI on September 18, 2025. The facility includes a 650-metre quay, three boarding bridges, parking for 44 buses, and a maritime station designed to international standards. It can accommodate ships up to 350 metres in length and handle over 450,000 passengers annually, reinforcing Casablanca’s position as a growing hub for West Mediterranean and transatlantic cruise itineraries.

The signing marks another important milestone for GPH, further strengthening its presence across the Atlantic and West Mediterranean region. Casablanca now joins a strong network of GPH ports including La Goulette, Las Palmas, and Mindelo – creating a connected corridor that bridges the Canary Islands, West Africa, and the Western Mediterranean, while serving as a key gateway for transatlantic itineraries between Europe and the Caribbean.

Casablanca is Morocco’s largest city and a key gateway for cruise passengers exploring the country’s diverse cultural and historical offerings—from the capital Rabat to the enchanting Red City of Marrakech, which will soon be within 1.2 hours’ reach with the completion of the new high-speed train line before the 2030 FIFA World Cup.

The ANP has invested approximately €72 million in the development and construction of the new cruise terminal and all its components. Casablanca Cruise Port welcomed approximately 150,000 transit passengers in 2024 and is expected to reach 180,000 in 2025.

Mehmet Kutman, Chairman and CEO of Global Ports Holding, said: “Casablanca Cruise Port is an important addition to our expanding regional network, strengthening our presence across the Atlantic and Mediterranean. Its modern facilities and strategic location make it an ideal link between established and emerging cruise destinations. We look forward to collaborating closely with ANP, and all stakeholders to deliver exceptional services, enhance the cruise experience, and contribute to the sustainable growth of Morocco’s cruise tourism.”

Las Palmas’ new cruise terminal welcomes its first call

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: Ports & Destinations Ports & Destinations; Published: 14 October 2025 14 October 2025

Las Palmas Cruise Port’s newest terminal – the largest cruise terminal in Europe – has officially begun operations with the arrival of Celebrity Apex, which docked at the Santa Catalina Pier on October 2, 2025. This inaugural call marks the operational launch of the new facility and the beginning of a key chapter for Gran Canaria as a premier international cruise destination.

Operated by Global Ports Holding and its local partner SEPCAN, the new terminal spans 14,000 square meters over two floors, featuring three boarding bridges and the capacity to accommodate up to four vessels simultaneously. Its design supports both transit and homeport operations efficiently, while offering retail and dining areas that enhance the passenger experience from the very first moment – projecting a modern, welcoming, and sustainable image of the island.

Complementing the indoor facilities is an exterior esplanade exceeding 17,800 m², featuring landscaped areas, pedestrian walkways, and a restored palm grove that leads seamlessly to the city boulevard, strengthening the terminal’s connection to Las Palmas de Gran Canaria.

The new terminal forms part of a €40 million investment plan led by this strategic partnership to modernize cruise infrastructure across Gran Canaria, Fuerteventura, and Lanzarote. The construction, carried out by Satocán, was guided by strict environmental and innovative criteria, including the use of recycled and eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient systems, solar power, and responsible waste management. This positions Las Palmas Cruise Port as a benchmark in Europe’s port sector.

The project also benefited from the support of the Las Palmas Port Authority, which contributed to the renovation and enhancement of the surrounding areas, ensuring a seamless, safe, and comfortable experience for both passengers and operators.

To mark the occasion, a commemorative plaque exchange was held with the captain of the Celebrity Apex and representatives of the Port Authority, followed by a tasting of traditional Gran Canarian products, organized in collaboration with the Puerto Canteras Association, welcoming the first cruise guests to experience the new facility.

Beatriz Calzada, President of the Las Palmas Port Authority, highlighted the significance of this milestone: “Las Palmas Cruise Port represents a major step forward in our infrastructure and service offerings. With this terminal, we strengthen the Canary Islands’ position in the Mid-Atlantic and establish Las Palmas as a key hub for both homeport and transit cruise operations. Furthermore, this facility has been designed with sustainability in mind, reflecting the Port Authority’s commitment to innovation and the responsible development of our activity.”

Susana Gutiérrez, General Manager of GPH Canary Islands Cruise Ports, added: “We are very pleased with the launch of the new cruise terminal. This project marks the beginning of a new era for the Port of La Luz. With this infrastructure, we take a decisive step towards the professionalization of cruise services and reaffirm our commitment to sustainable growth on the island. Our immediate goal is to help strengthen Gran Canaria’s position as a leading international cruise destination.”

With this new terminal, Las Palmas Cruise Port is well-prepared to accommodate a growing volume of cruise passengers efficiently, further boosting the local economy through increased activity in commerce, hospitality, food service, and other key sectors. Thanks to its modern design, comprehensive facilities, and strong sustainability focus, the terminal reinforces Gran Canaria’s reputation as a competitive and well-prepared destination in the Mid-Atlantic cruise market.

Mein Schiff 7 makes maiden call at Le Havre and first visit on the French Atlantic coast

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: Ports & Destinations Ports & Destinations; Published: 13 October 2025 13 October 2025

Mein Schiff 7, commissioned in June 2024, made her maiden call at Le Havre on Saturday October 11, 2025, a particularly notable visit as it also marked the vessel’s first visit on the French Atlantic coast. The 316-meter vessel, carrying 2,800 passengers and 1,000 crew members, underscores Le Havre’s growing role as a leading cruise hub on France’s Atlantic coast.

The traditional plaque exchange ceremony, held in the presence of Captain Jens Troier and local authorities including the city of Le Havre, Le Havre Croisières (cruise terminal operator), the Seamen’s Club and the tour-operator, officially marked this inaugural call and shone a spotlight on cruise activity in Le Havre.

“We are thrilled to welcome Mein Schiff 7 – TUI Cruises - for her first visit to Le Havre,” said Alexandra Ruiz, General Manager of Le Havre Croisières. “This milestone reflects our commitment to modernizing our infrastructure and enhancing the cruise experience on the French Atlantic coast. We look forward to welcoming the vessel again in our brand-new facilities in 2026.”

During her next visit in May 2026, Mein Schiff 7 will be welcomed in Le Havre’s newly completed facilities. The ongoing cruise terminal construction project, led by Le Havre Croisières plans to deliver terminals T2 and T3 by December 2025, with commissioning scheduled for January 2026. These modern facilities will significantly improve passenger comfort and operational efficiency, while enabling cruise ships calling at the port to connect to shore power, a sustainable project undertaken by HAROPA PORT.

Currently in the testing phase at Pierre Callet quay (terminal 2), the first to be equipped, the shore power system is expected to be operational by the end of 2025. It will then be extended to Roger Meunier and Joannes Couvert quays (terminals 1 and 3) in the coming months, with full operation across all quays anticipated between mid and late 2026.

With these investments, Le Havre is reinforcing its position as a gateway to Normandy and Paris, offering cruise lines state-of-the-art infrastructure and a strong commitment to sustainable cruise operations.

Photo credit: Guillaume Rueda

MedCruise concludes 67th General Assembly in Šibenik

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: Ports & Destinations Ports & Destinations; Published: 13 October 2025 13 October 2025

MedCruise, the Association of Mediterranean Cruise Ports, has successfully concluded its 67th General Assembly in the historic coastal city of Šibenik, Croatia. The Assembly brought together 214 attendees representing more than 20 countries, underlining the Association’s role as the largest network of cruise ports in the world.

Held from 30 September to 3 October 2025, the Assembly was co-organised with the Šibenik Port Authority and hosted at the Amadria Park Convention Centre.

The conference served as a unique platform for collaboration, gathering 28 cruise executives from 24 cruise lines, alongside MedCruise member ports, associate members, and international media representatives. Over the course of the Assembly, a record 500 B2B meetings were held, creating valuable opportunities for dialogue, partnership-building, and forward-looking cooperation.

The General Assembly once again highlighted MedCruise’s commitment to fostering sustainable, innovative and inclusive cruise growth across the Mediterranean.

It is also worth highlighting the participation of a delegation from the Port of Palermo, who delivered a presentation during the Assembly in Šibenik as part of the preparations already underway for the 68th MedCruise General Assembly, to be hosted in Palermo from 9–12 June 2026.

Panels and workshops

Alongside its networking opportunities and B2B meetings, the 67th MedCruise General Assembly featured a comprehensive programme of panels and workshops that explored the most pressing issues shaping the cruise sector.

The Assembly opened with a discussion on regional cooperation, emphasising that associations must work together more closely to tackle shared challenges such as sustainability, regulatory alignment, and infrastructure development. Panellists agreed that collaborative advocacy and joint initiatives are crucial to ensuring the cruise industry continues to thrive in a rapidly changing environment.

A workshop on social media and communication strategies gave delegates practical tools to strengthen visibility and engagement with stakeholders. The session underlined the importance of authentic storytelling and creative digital approaches to showcase destinations, attract cruise lines, and build stronger bonds with communities.

A presentation by FRONTEX offered critical insights into the forthcoming European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS). Attendees gained a clearer understanding of the system’s operational rollout and its implications for cruise operations, highlighting the importance of proactive planning and coordination among ports and cruise companies.

Sustainability was a central theme throughout the programme. One panel examined how ports can balance infrastructure growth with city well-being, stressing the need for dialogue between port authorities and local communities. Another session explored year-round cruising, focusing on how cultural heritage, nature, and authentic local experiences can be used to extend the season and spread economic benefits more evenly.

The discussion on local economic impact highlighted both direct and indirect contributions of cruise activity, from tourism spending to job creation and investment opportunities. Speakers stressed the need to measure and communicate these benefits more effectively to demonstrate the value of cruise tourism at a local level.

Finally, the panel on digital transformation looked at how innovation can foster collaboration across the sector. From immersive technologies to smarter data management, participants agreed that digitalisation is no longer optional but essential for improving passenger experience and operational efficiency.

Together, these sessions showcased the diversity of expertise within MedCruise and its partners, reinforcing the Association’s role as a leading platform for knowledge exchange and collective action in the cruise sector.

“My sincere thanks go to the Port of Šibenik, to the MedCruise Secretariat, and to all the institutions that supported this Assembly – the Šibenik-Knin County, the City of Šibenik, and the Ministry of the Sea, Transport and Infrastructure.” underlined Theodora Riga, President of MedCruise “I especially wish to acknowledge the representatives of Cruise Norway and CLIA in Europe, for their valuable participation. The record-breaking attendance and the high number of B2B meetings in Šibenik confirm the strength of our General Assembly format. These gatherings are more than just networking opportunities: they are essential moments of in-person dialogue on critical industry themes, and occasions of training and exchange with the top experts shaping the cruise sector’s future.”