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2026 cruise season due to start as Isle of Man builds on record-breaking year

April 16, 2026 13:26

Visit Isle of Man is preparing for the start of the 2026 cruise season, building on the momentum of a record-breaking year for cruise tourism in 2025 and continued growth in the Island’s cruise sector. The Isle of Man welcomed 26,357 cruise passengers in 2025, the highest number on record, generating an estimated £2.3 million in visitor spend and reinforcing the Island’s growing appeal as a valued cruise destination within the British Isles. Looking ahead, 45 cruise calls are currently scheduled for the 2026 season, including seven maiden visits. The upcoming season will also see the arrival of the Island’s 500th cruise ship, marking a major milestone in the development of the Isle of Man’s cruise industry and underlining the Island’s long-term ambition to continue strengthening its cruise offer and global profile. Cruise tourism plays an increasingly important role in supporting the Isle of Man’s visitor economy, delivering valuable visitor spend for local businesses and providing a platform to showcase the Island’s rich heritage, natural landscapes and quality shore experiences. The continued development of the sector aligns with Visit Isle of Man’s ten-year visitor economy strategy, ‘Our Island, Our Future’, which prioritises sustainable growth, diversification of markets and long-term economic value. Deborah Heather, CEO of Visit Isle of Man, commented: ‘Following a record-breaking year for cruise tourism in 2025, it’s encouraging to see continued confidence from cruise operators as we prepare for the 2026 season. A strong programme of calls and several maiden visits reflect the Isle of Man’s growing reputation as a desirable and rewarding destination. ‘What truly sets the Island apart is the quality of the experience we’re able to offer cruise visitors, from the welcome passengers receive on arrival to the depth and authenticity of the experience available ashore. Delivering that consistently relies on close collaboration between local businesses, attractions, guides and volunteers, whose collective efforts ensure every visit runs smoothly and leaves a lasting impression.’ Sarah Maltby MHK, Political Member with responsibility for Tourism, Motorsport and Heritage, added: ‘Cruise tourism continues to play an important role in the Isle of Man’s visitor economy and the results seen in 2025 give us a strong platform to build on for the future. Our focus is on taking a long-term, strategic approach that supports sustainable growth and delivers real benefits for the Island. ‘Strong relationships are key in the cruise industry. By continuing to build trust, visibility and strong partnerships with cruise operators and industry partners, the Isle of Man is strengthening its reputation as a destination that cruise lines want to work with, both now and in the seasons ahead.’ Visit Isle of Man remains committed to working in partnership with the cruise industry, on‑Island businesses and volunteers to enhance the Island’s cruise offering and further strengthen its position as a must‑visit destination in the years ahead.

French Atlantic Ports at Seatrade Cruise Global 2026

April 10, 2026 15:41

French Atlantic Ports at Seatrade Cruise Global 2026 A collective vision driving the cruise industry of tomorrow Miami, April 2026 – At the Seatrade Cruise Global 2026, the world’s premier cruise industry event, French Atlantic Ports will showcase the strategic strengths of France’s Atlantic coast destinations to the cruise industry. Le Havre, Honfleur, Caen-Ouistreham, Cherbourg, Brest and Bordeaux will come together in Miami to highlight their infrastructures, projects, and the richness of their regions, while strengthening their collective visibility and fostering new collaboration opportunities with ship operators. In a highly competitive international market, French Atlantic Ports adopts a coordinated approach to Atlantic coast port calls. The network leverages the complementary strengths of its ports, the diversity of destinations, and the quality of its facilities to offer cruise lines seamless itineraries and passengers with unique experiences rich in culture, heritage, and local discovery. In a particularly dynamic context, member ports are pursuing major investments: modernizing and expanding terminals, increasing capacity, developing new port calls and homeport operations, and rolling out sustainable solutions. These projects strengthen the Atlantic coast’s capacity to support sector growth and meet the evolving expectations of both cruise lines and passengers. At Seatrade, French Atlantic Ports aim to deepen discussions with cruise lines to design even more attractive itineraries, optimize port operations, and implement sustainable solutions aligned with the needs of the modern cruise industry.

Plymouth is primed and ready for more

April 8, 2026 17:54

On a FAM trip to Plymouth (Devon, UK) before Easter, Cruise Europe witnessed firsthand, not only what is on offer for the ships and passengers - and there is plenty - but just how clearly the people at Cattewater Harbour Commissioners (CHC), Plymouth, understand the business of cruising. It is apparent from the outset that our hosts, ceo and harbour master Captain Richard Allan and business support officer Evie Smith, are passionate about the city, the destination and cruise. They also want to make sure that everyone on the ground is engaged in the process. This was demonstrated throughout our visit by Allan ensuring that CE’s fellow travellers (cruiseline executives and shore excursion agents) engaged in dialogue with the representatives we visited, so that all those involved had a better understanding of what could be offered and what is needed for visiting passengers/ships. There may only be 10 calls this year, with the likelihood of increased numbers each year thereafter, but the dedication to making each one a success is palpable and, from all the conversations we had over two days, the desire to be flexible is paramount. This was demonstrated by everyone we met, from The Eliot Arms that opened especially on a Tuesday to give us lunch to the pilot boat taking time out of busy port operations to showcase the harbour, the anchorage and to get a view of what the passengers see as they come into Plymouth and arrive at one of two tender pontoons via the Barbican Landing Stage. Both are a stone’s throw from the Mayflower Steps (where the Pilgrim Fathers left for the US in 1620) and The Barbican, with its small streets dating back to the 16th century and hosting a myriad of artisan shops and restaurants. This is ideal for both walking tours and independent browsing. In fact, the whole of Plymouth is walkable if passengers are not averse to a few little hills! Within easy reach is the Plymouth Gin Distillery, dating back to 1431. Our hostess, Karly, gave us a lively account of the history before moving on to how the gin is made before we settled into a tasting which, even for a non-gin drinker, was captivating. Small groups can be accommodated in the ‘secret’ bar and there is a magnificent upstairs Refectory Bar for gin-based cocktails and more to round off any visit. Along the way you may spot sculptures by local artist, Beryl Cook, who is also featured in The Box, a museum, art gallery and archive all rolled into one. Here you can dive into Plymouth’s maritime legacy spanning thousands of years and view original artefacts from the voyages of none other than Charles Darwin, Captain James Cook and Scott of the Antarctic, all of whom have Plymouth connections or, indeed, set off from its shores. History abounds in this destination and there is plenty that links the UK and the US. A fine example of this, and one that CHC is extremely proud to offer as an exclusive visit to cruise calls into Plymouth, is a tour of Port Eliot House & Gardens, most likely hosted by the lady of the manor, Bianca Eliot. Her son, Albert, will be the 11th Earl of St Germans. The house is said to be one of the oldest continuously inhabited dwellings in the UK. The Grade I listed priory and house in St Germans was remodelled by Sir John Soane in the 18th century and the gardens and park were created by Sir Humphrey Repton. Within the grounds and ownership is the former cathedral of Cornwall (926-1030) and just down the road is The Eliot Arms, a perfect stop for a pub lunch. It was apparent from our visit that private tours can be tailored to each call, whether it be a simple guided tour of the house or a private reception/dinner in the house in one of the rooms where Joshua Reynolds paintings hang, almost nonchalantly, on many a wall. Or in the round room where a stunning mural by local painter, Robert Lenkiewicz, adorns the walls. Plymouth and its surrounds were badly hit during World War II due to it being a naval base, but restoration and development has been extensive. We were lucky enough to visit Mount Edgcumbe House, a 30-minute boat trip across Plymouth Sound, which was completely restored and reopened to the public in 1988. Housing the national collection of camellias, the gardens are also the site of a splendid orangery where cream teas and other refreshments can be organised. Last but by no means least, it would be impossible not to mention the food on offer ranging from the magnificent Devonshire cream tea at The Terrace to the scrumptious Cornish pasty from Malcolm Barnecutt, not to mention fish & chips at the aptly-named Fishermans Arms which is also, strangely, famous for its steak and ale pie. We were also fortunate enough to stop in the Royal William Yard on our boat trip. This has splendid views across the Sound to Cornwall and many historic naval buildings repurposed to house outlets such as microbrewery Steel Brew Co, independent wine lounge Le Vignoble and BLOCK Cafe. It is worth noting here that huge development work is taking place in the city generally with £1 billion (€1.15 billion) being invested, including into revitalised public spaces and and new leisure experiences. Cruise calls On our visit were Bob Hurt, destination manager, shorex, at P&O Cruises/Cunard, and Natalie Simpson, operational planning manager at Fred Olsen Cruise Lines, who were enthused by all that we saw and experienced. P&O Cruises is making a first call here this season with Aurora and if Simpson has anything to do with it, Freds may well be docking here before too long. Meanwhile Ritz-Carlton Yacht Club is calling for the first time and Seabourn is returning, which Allan is delighted about, demonstrating as it does that the first call was such a success, the brand is repeating. Four Seasons is just one of the other lines showing interest and, at the other end of the spectrum, AIDABella will be calling in August 2028 for the annual national fireworks competition which takes place over two days. It’s definitely worth a diary date if itinerary planning permits. Port facts Plymouth Sound is protected by the 1,560m-long Plymouth Breakwater, which is repaired and reinforced annually, and hence the port can operate during all weathers. Indeed, CHC is keen to point out that it can accommodate cruiseships needing to alter itinerary plans at just two hours’ notice. Most of the cruise ships calling are on anchorage 2 and 6 in the shelter of Plymouth Sound. Vessels up to 340m carrying 3,000 passengers can anchor subject to coordination with the Royal Navy. The anchorage is an eight-minute tender ride from either the Mayflower Pontoon (2.5m depth plus height of tide, three tenders) or The Barbican Landing Stage (2.5m depth plus height of tide, four tenders). Zodiacs can also be accommodated. Commercial Wharf acts as the gateway between the harbour (pontoons) and the city. Having just signed off with the council, CHC is aiming to upgrade the area “to make it a bit of a hub for the city”, as Allan puts it, but also for visitors. Planning permission has been put in for a major upgrade but, in the meantime, a soft launch took place over Easter with food stalls and live music demonstrating what can be offered further down the tracks. Smith explains that CHC works closely with the Plymouth Waterfront Partnership and other stakeholders and that the community is very much in favour of cruiseships calling. For passengers arriving into Plymouth, there is always a welcome from an ex-military drumming band and town crier, as well as a group of local ambassadors to share information on city attractions and advise on tours and directions. For groups going further afield, there is parking for up to 20 coaches in the local vicinity. Pilotage is compulsory and organised by CHC, which caters to all marine/port operational needs when it comes to the ships.

Carnival UK, MSC Cruises and CLIA Honoured at the 14th Edition of the Cruise Activity Awards of the Port of Lisbon

March 31, 2026 15:42

The 14th edition of the Cruise Activity Awards of the Port of Lisbon, held on 23 March, was marked by the introduction of a new category dedicated to sustainability and community engagement, integrated into the “Cruise Lines for the Community” – Community Interaction Programme. For the first time, cruise companies were recognised for their cooperation in social and environmental responsibility initiatives carried out in the city of Lisbon. Carnival UK receives Excellence in Community Engagement Award Carnival UK was awarded the Excellence in Community Engagement prize, in recognition of the significant contribution made by its ships and crew members in urban conservation and social support initiatives.  Urban and Environmental Conservation Projects Three beach clean-up activities were carried out by crew members from the cruise ships Queen Anne, Britannia and Arcadia, resulting in a total of 60 kg of litter collected and contributing to the preservation of Lisbon’s coastal areas.  Donation of Equipment and Materials Two donation initiatives promoted by the Arcadia and Ventura delivery of 400 kg of equipment and materials to ENTRAJUDA – Association Supporting Social Solidarity Institutions MSC Cruises and CLIA recognised for the All Aboard! project MSC Cruises and CLIA were also recognised for the development of the ALL ABOARD! project, an educational initiative carried out in a Lisbon school involving around 70 5th‑grade students, promoting learning and strengthening the connection between the school community and the cruise sector. Awards that reinforce the connection between the city and the cruise industry The awards aim to encourage cruise operators to deepen their relationship with the local community, promoting sustainable practices and contributing to more responsible tourism. The initiative highlights the importance of strengthening ties between cruise companies and the city of Lisbon, fostering greater integration and supporting the sustainable deve

Foyle Port Set for a Record-Breaking Cruise Season

March 30, 2026 12:24

Foyle Port is preparing to welcome its largest ever cruise programme with 22 calls from 15 cruise lines scheduled to visit Ireland’s North West in 2026. The record season is expected to bring an estimated 15,800 international visitors to the region, delivering significant economic benefits to local visitor attractions, hospitality providers, retail and transport companies. This year’s scheduled calls are expected to run from April until September, more than a month longer than the 2025 cruise season. Among the visiting vessels will be first-time visits from Ponant and Nicko Cruises, alongside several returning cruise partners who continue to include Foyle Port in their itineraries. One of the highlights of the season will be the scheduled arrival of Nieuw Statendam, operated by Holland America Line. She will be the largest ship to ever visit Lough Foyle and will bring the highest volume of passengers and crew the port has welcomed in a single day. On 28 August, the port will also host a double ship day, with frequent caller Hebridean Sky joined by a return visit from Seven Seas Voyager. The majority of the liners will anchor at the tender port of Greencastle, with some smaller vessels scheduled for berthing alongside at Lisahally and Fort George in the city centre. Captain Bill McCann, Harbour Master & Operations Director, Foyle Port said, “We are very much looking forward to welcoming both new and returning cruise lines this year in what is set to be our busiest season to date. We expect eight first-time calls, including the brand-new luxury ship from Explora Journeys, Explora III, which is scheduled to make its debut visit to the island of Ireland here in the North West on 6th June. The increase in cruise calls reinforces the region’s growing appeal among itinerary planners, which we have been actively promoting over the years. The destination makes for a key stop among itineraries particularly around Ireland, Britain and Scandinavia.” Louise Denvir, Cruise Marketing Executive, Foyle Port added, “We have been working closely with strategic partners, including local tourism organisations, shore excursion companies and councils across both jurisdictions to ensure visitors experience the very best of the region. Cruise visitors have a unique opportunity to discover the blend of historic city culture in Derry-Londonderry, alongside the chance to explore the stunning rural highlights in counties Donegal, Antrim and Tyrone, creating a well-rounded and memorable experience for international visitors. Our hope is that cruise guests leave with a real taste of the region and are inspired to return in the future for longer, overnight stays.” The first cruise ship, Le Lapérouse, is scheduled to anchor in Greencastle on 16th April. To view the full cruise schedule, visit www.foyleport.com/cruise-and-leisure