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Port of Lisbon records best June ever in passengers and calls at the Cruise Terminal

July 14, 2026 15:49

The Port of Lisbon recorded this year its best June ever in cruise activity, reaching new historic highs in both passenger numbers and ship calls, confirming a sustained growth trend that reinforces Lisbon’s position among the leading European destinations in this tourism segment. Throughout the month, 81,735 cruise passengers passed through the Port of Lisbon, 53% more than in June 2025 and far surpassing the previous June record of 2024, which stood at 60,922 passengers. The total number of calls rose to 37, the highest figure ever recorded for this month and 32% more than in the same period last year. Transit calls also reached a new peak, with 21 calls, above the 19 recorded in 2023. The results were driven by the strong growth of turnaround operations (embarking and disembarking passengers who start or end their cruise in Lisbon), precisely the segment that generates the greatest economic impact for the city and the region. June’s performance also strengthened the results of the first half of 2026, during which the Port of Lisbon registered 302,496 passengers and 165 calls, corresponding to increases of 5% in both indicators compared with the same period of the previous year. Turnaround passengers grew by 7%, while transit passengers increased by 4%, confirming the positive evolution of the activity. Records across nearly all indicators June 2026 set new historic highs for this month in virtually all key activity indicators. In addition to the absolute passenger record, the Port of Lisbon received 54,885 transit passengers, 32% more than in June 2025, while the turnaround segment reached 26,850 passengers, representing growth of 125% and becoming the best June ever for this segment, surpassing the previous June record of 2024 (23,090). This result stemmed from a very significant increase in embarkation and disembarkation operations. Embarked passengers rose from 6,166 to 13,425, an increase of 118%, while disembarked passengers increased from 5,747 to 13,425, corresponding to growth of 134%. These indicators show that Lisbon continues to strengthen its role as a port of origin and destination for cruise travel, a type of operation particularly valued by cruise lines and the local economy. First semester confirms the trend June’s results are not an isolated episode. In the first six months of the year, the Port of Lisbon recorded: • 165 calls (+5%) • 302,496 passengers (+5%) • 217,047 transit passengers (+4%) • 85,449 turnaround passengers (+7%) Together, these indicators demonstrate balanced growth in both volume and quality, reinforcing the Port of Lisbon’s international competitiveness. Much more than numbers Unlike transit passengers, those who start or end their cruise in Lisbon typically stay longer in the city, use hotels, rely on local transport, visit restaurants and make purchases before or after their trip. This is precisely why the growth of the turnaround segment is today one of the most strategically relevant indicators for assessing the economic contribution of cruise activity. This evolution also confirms the increasing confidence of major international cruise companies in the Port of Lisbon’s operational capacity and in the quality of the destination. Lisbon continues to attract new ships Another sign of growing international recognition was the arrival of eight ships on their maiden call during the first semester. Among them, the Orient Express Corinthian stands out, choosing Lisbon as the first port of its inaugural voyage immediately after leaving the shipyard. For the cruise industry, selecting a port to host an inaugural voyage represents recognition of its operational capability, service quality and international prestige, demonstrated by its ability to welcome next generation vessels. Reduced seasonality The results achieved in June also show an evolution in the distribution of activity throughout the year. Traditionally a less intense period for cruise tourism in Lisbon, the summer months have been registering a consistent increase in demand, helping reduce seasonality and enabling a more balanced use of port infrastructure.

QUEEN MARY 2 & CHERBOURG: 22 YEARS OF A UNIQUE MARITIME PARTNERSHIP

June 24, 2026 15:19

The calls of Queen Mary 2 to Cherbourg represent far more than a regular port of call. Since her inaugural visit on 14 April 2004, the flagship of Cunard has maintained a special relationship with the destination, reflecting Cherbourg's historic role in transatlantic travel and its continuing importance within the cruise industry. Each visit of Queen Mary 2 recalls the era when great ocean liners called at Cherbourg en route to and from New York. The city's former Transatlantic Maritime Station, now serving as the cruise terminal, remains a powerful symbol of this heritage and continues to welcome international guests arriving by sea. To celebrate more than two decades of this connection, Cherbourg Cruise, together with Cherbourg Port, La Cité de la Mer and the Communauté d'Agglomération du Cotentin, organised an Art Deco-inspired evening reflecting the elegance of the transatlantic era. The event highlighted both the destination's maritime heritage and its ongoing commitment to cruise tourism. The initiative was designed primarily for the local community, providing an opportunity for residents to engage with the cruise industry and gain a greater understanding of the economic, cultural and tourism benefits it brings to the region. Representatives from across Cherbourg's cruise ecosystem participated, including port authorities, maritime services, tourism partners, agents, tour operators and heritage attractions, alongside elected representatives from the City of Cherbourg-en-Cotentin and the Cotentin Agglomeration. The event also provided an opportunity to highlight Cherbourg's continuing development as a cruise destination. The port is expected to welcome approximately 75 cruise calls in 2026, including 11 inaugural visits, while maintaining its one-ship-per-day policy that prioritises operational excellence and guest experience. Looking ahead, the destination is preparing for the introduction of shore power facilities, currently planned for 2028, further supporting its long-term sustainability ambitions. Beyond celebrating a shared maritime history, the evening demonstrated how heritage, tourism and cruise operations continue to work together to support the future development of the destination. It also reinforced the close relationship between Cherbourg, Cunard and the many stakeholders who contribute to the success of each call. Cherbourg Cruise extends its sincere thanks to Cunard and Carnival UK for their continued partnership and support, including their cooperation in facilitating a dedicated visit aboard Queen Mary 2 for representatives of the Cotentin Urban Community and their contribution to the production of a film designed to bring the ship's story closer to local residents. As Queen Mary 2 departed Cherbourg once again, watched by residents and guests gathered along the waterfront, the occasion served as a reminder of a relationship that continues to connect the destination's maritime past with its future. Photo credits: Valentin Leflamand - Nicolas Duhayon

Port of Tallinn: decisive step towards shore power

June 16, 2026 10:49

Port of Tallinn, Estonia will invest in shore power facilities for cruise ships at Old City Harbour. This autumn, construction will begin on a new 110/10 kV substation near the Cruise Terminal. The substation is the first stage and a key prerequisite for establishing shore power connections for cruise vessels, enabling ships in the future to connect to the local electricity grid while at berth instead of using auxiliary engines. The investment is part of the PoTOPS project – Port of Tallinn Onshore Power Supply – co-funded by the EU Connecting Europe Facility. The project aims to provide shore power capability for cruise ships at two quays in Old City Harbour by 2030. Once completed, the facilities will help reduce emissions and noise from cruise ships at berth and strengthen Tallinn’s position as a sustainable cruise destination in the Baltic Sea region. The substation project has already been recognised as Estonia’s first BIMbased building permit project and was awarded the title of Innovation Project of the Year 2025, highlighting Port of Tallinn’s role in advancing digital construction and innovative infrastructure development.

Sister ships make double cruise call at Portland Port

June 11, 2026 09:59

It was a double celebration when Portland Port welcomed two ships from the AIDA cruise line on the same day for the first time. Sister vessels AIDAsol and AIDAluna made history as the first ships from AIDA to call simultaneously at the port in Dorset, UK. The milestone came during Portland Port’s 30th anniversary year and as a bumper cruise season gets underway. Coincidentally, it is also AIDA’s 30th anniversary this year too. Dignitaries from Portland Port and AIDA exchanged plaques to mark the occasion, while many of the ships’ 4,388 passengers headed off on excursions and complimentary shuttle buses. Ian McQuade, Portland Port commercial director and chair of trade association Cruise Britain, said: “It was another first on a day to remember. “We welcome AIDA’s ships and passengers on a regular basis but this was the first time that two of its vessels called together. “It was a wonderful sight to see the sister ships sail into Portland Harbour and its passengers disembark, including many setting off on our complimentary shuttle buses to stops on Portland and in Weymouth. “AIDA has been a strong supporter as we have built the port’s cruise business to the point where we are hosting 52 separate calls this year with more than 100,000 passengers, injecting circa £10m into the local economy. “We are grateful for its support and we were thrilled to be able to celebrate the double call in our 30th anniversary year.” The AIDAsol arrived at Portland from Fishguard in Wales on the penultimate stop of a nine-day round trip. The AIDAluna called at the port on a 14 day round-trip from Hamburg. Dorset Volunteer Ambassadors helped welcome passengers at Portland and the Weymouth Ukuleleans serenaded them as they returned from trips before the Nothe Fort Artillery Volunteers fired a three gun salute to mark the ships’ departures. Typically, about 45% of visiting cruise guests go on an organised excursion to various attractions throughout Dorset, and beyond to Stonehenge, Salisbury and Bath. The majority of the remaining guests avail themselves of the port’s complimentary shuttle bus service, either choosing to stay on Portland or travel into Weymouth. Ian said: “Cruising continues to grow in popularity. “A great deal of work is dedicated behind the scenes to attracting and accommodating cruise ships, which provides a valuable boost to local businesses in off-peak months as well as at the height of the season. “Feedback from cruise lines and passengers is consistently positive about the area, the warm welcome they receive and the attractions on offer.” The £10m injected into the local economy annually is based on statistics from the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) trade body for spend per head of passenger. It includes expenditure in shops, bars, cafes, tourism attractions along with transport and tours. In addition, further expenditure comes from the crew that are given time off when in port along with berthing revenues through the port itself and businesses in the local supply chain. Portland Port opened a £26m deepwater berth in 2023, allowing it to welcome larger vessels, including ships up to 350m in length on opposite berths on the same day. The port opened as a commercial business in 1996 following its closure as a Royal Naval Base.

Nieuw Statendam Makes Landmark Visit as the Largest Cruise Ship in Foyle History

June 9, 2026 11:56

A major milestone was reached as Nieuw Statendam became the largest cruise ship ever to visit Lough Foyle, marking a landmark moment for Foyle Port and the wider North West region. At just under 100,000 gross tonnes and measuring 300 metres in length, the vessel operated by Holland America Line brings its highest ever single day volume of passengers and crew to the destination, underscoring the region’s growing appeal to major international cruise operators. The Nieuw Statendam, capable of accommodating up to 2,666 guests and 1,053 crew, called to Lough Foyle as part of Holland America Line's 28-day "Arctic Circle & British Isles Collectors' Voyage" — an itinerary that places the North West firmly alongside some of the most sought-after destinations in the region. This latest call marks Holland America Line's first return to Lough Foyle since the Prinsendam visited in 2018, and the operator has already confirmed scheduled return visits in 2027, 2028 and 2029. To commemorate the inaugural call, a traditional plaque exchange was held on board between the ship’s Captain and local representatives from Foyle Port. Foyle Port’s Harbour Master and Operations Director, Captain Bill McCann said: “Welcoming the Nieuw Statendam — the largest cruise ship ever to call to Lough Foyle — is a landmark moment for Foyle Port and for the wider North West region, and a reflection of the significant work that has gone into developing this destination for major international operators. “Bringing close to 3,700 passengers and crew to the region in a single visit is a record for us, and the fact that Holland America Line has already committed to returning for the next three years tells its own story about the confidence that leading cruise lines now have in our Port facilities and local tourism offering. “The North West has a great deal to showcase, and we look forward to welcoming many more vessels of this calibre in the years ahead." Karen Farndell, associate vice president for sales and marketing for Holland America Line, Operator of Nieuw Statendam, said: “Calling at Foyle Port offers a wonderful opportunity for our guests to experience the history, culture, and landscapes that make Northern Ireland so special. “We are committed to connecting guests more deeply with the destinations we visit, while caring for the local communities and natural environments that make these journeys so meaningful”. Driving the demand for visitors to the region is also its leading tourism offering, with passengers from Nieuw Statendam able to access to a range of shore excursions across the North West, taking in the region's Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, museums, and more. New to this season's offering is Celtic Grá, a live production of Celtic music and dance which has been performed to audiences worldwide on land and at sea. Niamh McCarthy, Managing Director, Excursions Ireland, said: “The Foyle region is a shining example of what can be achieved when a remarkable destination is supported by a truly progressive Port. Rich in history, surrounded by stunning scenery, and packed with diverse experiences, it continues to grow as a must-visit cruise destination. “Working alongside Foyle Port is always a pleasure for us in Excursions Ireland – their proactive, innovative approach and commitment to partnership make them a driving force for the region’s success. 2026 is a busy season in Foyle Port and we look forward to being a part of the impressive growth this region is seeing.”