News

02/03/2026

Rouen Cruise Magazine Continues to Support 2026 Planning

As cruise planners seek destinations that combine operational efficiency with immersive guest experiences, Rouen is reinforcing its position as an overnight cultural anchor on the Seine. With its historic center just steps from the quay, illuminated monuments, evening concerts, and UNESCO‑recognized gastronomy, the city invites ships not just to dock, but to dwell. Rouen might be known for its Gothic spires and Impressionist legacy, but France’s historic Norman capital is now firmly on the map as one of the most immersive and well‑rounded cruise destinations in Northern Europe. And to make that case directly to cruise planners and executives, Rouen Tourisme continues to promote the Rouen Cruise Magazine as a key planning resource for the 2026 season and beyond. Beyond the Brochure: What Cruise Executives Will Find Inside This isn’t a standard city guide. The publication was created with itinerary designers, product teams, and shorex planners in mind. A deep dive into Rouen’s cultural DNA: Monet’s cathedral, Joan of Arc’s final days, and half‑timbered streets that start just a short walk from the gangway. Concrete updates on cruise‑readiness: Eco‑minded port infrastructure, turn‑around logistics, and strong overnight potential that make Rouen planner‑friendly as well as guest‑friendly. Smart, usable insights: A clean, printable, offline‑friendly format ideal for trade shows, sales meetings, and voyage‑planning workshops. A City That’s More Than a Stopover Rouen continues to attract industry attention because it feels like a destination, not a detour. “Rouen is the kind of place where you can actually dock, disembark, and start exploring immediately,” notes one European itinerary planner. Its accessibility, evening programming, and atmospheric setting strengthen the case for overnight calls on Seine itineraries linking Paris and Normandy. With record river and ocean activity in 2025 and a busy calendar already confirmed for 2026, Rouen is increasingly used as a cultural anchor port, with easy access to Paris, Giverny, Versailles, and the wider Normandy region. A Tool for Itinerary Planning in a Competitive Market With more ships competing for standout shore experiences, destinations need to bring more to the table. That is exactly what the magazine was designed to do. We didn’t want to just talk about Rouen, we wanted to create something useful; something executives can actually use when building programs and justifying route changes. Packed with visuals, quotes, and ideas, the magazine links Rouen’s heritage pillars (history, art, nature, industry, gastronomy) with the operational realities of cruise deployment. Grab a Copy, Stay in Touch Cruise Europe readers and industry partners can continue to access the Rouen Cruise Magazine online or request a printed version. ​ Download: https://bit.ly/4seHW5I Request a hard copy or discuss itinerary ideas: Contact Jaco Seyffert j.seyffert@rouentourisme.com

25/02/2026

The first CE at Sea is widely applauded

The first Cruise Europe at Sea has taken place and, by all accounts, it was a resounding success. Jens Skrede, managing director, said: “We are delighted to have been able to host this special event for our members and truly grateful to MSC Cruises for taking such good care of us.” The 110 members enjoyed a four-day passage on MSC Splendida where they participated in workshops and meetings with MSC Cruises and the management of Costa Crociere but also heard about the EU regulatory framework for protecting the cruise ecosystem from Nikos Mertzanidis, executive director Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) Europe. Visiting Barcelona, Marseilles, Genoa and Naples also gave members insight into cruise operations as well as tourist attractions. Valerie Conan, cruise director, Greater Le Havre Tourist Office, said on LinkedIn: “This immersion has consolidated our partnerships and confirmed the importance of collective work and constant dialogue to support the evolution of the sector.” While Melanie Henderson, cruise & marketing manger, Lerwick Harbour, said: “Good quality time spent with Cruise Europe colleagues elevated the programme, strengthening connections and all-important knowledge sharing so crucial across this industry.” And David Castro, head of commercial division, Port Authority of Vigo, said: “All of us who had the opportunity to be part of this journey witnessed first-hand the cruise industry’s firm commitment to sustainable, economic, social and environmental development.” For Niamh McCarthy, owner and managing director at Excursions Ireland, the big takeaway: “Collaboration, creativity and shared responsibility are the engines that will drive the cruise industry’s sustainable growth.”

25/02/2026

Host MSC Cruises presents in-depth analysis of its workings

MSC Cruises will have a fleet of 33 ships by 2033, and its sister company Explora Journeys will have six luxury vessels by 2028.   Linden Coppell, VP sustainability & ESG at MSC Cruises, explained on board MSC Splendida: “We place sustainability at the heart of everything we do”.   Her presentation covered topics including how the company has implemented impressive operational measures, including full food-waste management, onboard water production via desalination, and its continuous focus on energy efficiency and innovation.   In terms of shore power, the company made 223 connections using 11,851MWh worldwide during the year. Northern European ports are up there when it comes to connectivity with Southampton being cited as a top port for connections (28) alongside Valletta (33) and Miami (24).   For MSC Cruises’ path to net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, it says it is committed to pursuing a credible, robust and transparent energy transition plan focusing on three main decarbonisation levers: ship and engine technology; operational efficiency; and renewable fuels.   Linden said: “We expect to achieve peak emissions in 2030 (CO2-equivalent on a well-to-wake basis) and will then begin to really see absolute emissions reduce as we accelerate the transition to renewable fuels”.   The importance of community engagement was also a focus of Linden’s presentation as she explained the need for strong cooperation with and within the communities that MSC Cruises’ ships visit which strengthens local relationships, creates development, and increases the local value creation.

25/02/2026

Outlining what CLIA is doing in Europe

Mertzanidis talked about what CLIA is doing to defend the cruise ecosystem in Brussels, outlining some of the EU framework that is in place which effects the industry, such as Fit for 55 and the Industrial Maritime Strategy. He also outlined CLIA’s EU strategic agenda which covers 2024 to 2029 and includes EU and IMO alignment to unlock innovation investment and maintain competitiveness, as well as unlocking funding, finance and investment to encourage innovation and accelerate decarbonisation. Mertzanidis said the the EU Industrial Maritime Strategy is “vital for maintaining European competitiveness and leadership in the global maritime sector.” He also highlighted that the EU Emissions Trading System review is a critical policy area of the cruise industry’s decarbonisation efforts. One of CLIA’s four key messages is to ensure a level playing field for all shipping segments and avoiding carbon leakage that could undermine environmental goals. In conclusion he said: “We remain committed to driving innovation, investing in green technologies, and fostering collaborative partnerships to achieve our shared environmental goals, all while continuing to deliver unparalleled economic and social benefits across Europe. Atle Kristian Johannessen, port director at Port of Kristiansand, posted on LinkedIn: “The sessions with CLIA in Europe with Nikos Mertzanidis and the Environmental Port Index (EPI) further underlined that transparency, environmental data and operational readiness will define competitiveness in Northern Europe in the years ahead.”

25/02/2026

EPI is getting more and more support

The Environmental Port Index (EPI) is gaining traction within Cruise Europe. More than 40 ports are now signed up with more in the pipeline. In his presentation, chief commercial officer Annfinn Hjelm, highlighted a shared port perspective on cruise ship emissions and the importance of continued collaboration across the industry. He explained that the average EPI score development improved from 38.8 percent in 2022 on 1,907 port calls to 55.5 percent in 2025 on 3,869 port calls. But he also highlighted Bergen as an example of a port that has gone well over the average of 55.5 percent to 73 percent between 2019 (575 port calls) and 2025 (3,869). The key factor in improvement is due to the quality of fuel used but also to improved operation, newer ships and the use of shore power. By signing up to the EPI, ports are demonstrating a commitment to decarbonisation, aligning to an industry standard and sharing protocols. Hjelm said: “Different standards can create confusion for lines. By having same reports, all lines know what to expect while in a Cruise Europe port.” With cruiselines being under increasing pressure from cities, regulators and passengers to demonstrate sustainability, the EPI can help in their communication but also locally with port stakeholder management, media, politicians and the public.

29/01/2026

Annual Cruise Club Meeting in Le Havre

The Cruise Club plenary, led by Jean-Baptiste Gastinne, took place Tuesday, January 27, at Le Havre’s Port Center. he event brought together key stakeholders and partners involved in the development of the cruise sector in Le Havre, at a pivotal moment for both the destination and the port. Discussions focused on the evolution of cruise activity, operational and guest experience challenges, and the opportunities created by the progressive commissioning of the new terminals. 2026 marks a major transition phase, with the city and port strategy taking shape on the ground. The meeting showcased the strength of collaboration and the coordination between institutional and professional partners in the region. The Cruise Club remains a key forum for dialogue, experience sharing, and joint strategic development. Coordinated by Le Havre Croisières, the Cruise Club brings together port, tourism, and economic stakeholders around a shared goal: ensuring a smooth, high-quality, and attractive port call experience for cruise lines and passengers alike. We sincerely thank all participants for the quality of the discussions and their continued commitment to promoting Le Havre as a cruise destination.

20/01/2026

AIDAnova call in Cherbourg

On 7 January, AIDAnova called at Cherbourg, providing an excellent opportunity to host our annual cruise stakeholders’ meeting on board the vessel. This exceptional setting enabled open, high-quality exchanges and further strengthened the relationship between AIDA Cruises and the Port of Cherbourg. Our sincere thanks go to Richard Cooke and Sandra Neffgen (AIDA Cruises) for the excellent organisation of the event and for facilitating constructive discussions, which attracted strong interest from the local stakeholder community - particularly around AIDA Cruises’ sustainability initiatives. The cruise industry continues to move towards greener and cleaner operations, supported by committed partners such as AIDA Cruises. With Onshore Power Supply (OPS) scheduled to be available in Cherbourg from 2028, our shared sustainability ambitions will be further reinforced. This collaboration is fully aligned with the Green Destinations certification awarded to the Cotentin region in December 2025, reflecting a common strategy for responsible and future-focused cruise development.

15/01/2026

Princess Cruises expands Northern Europe portfolio for 2027

Princess Cruises is launching an extended Northern Europe programme for 2027, offering 48 voyages to 54 destinations across 18 countries. With Regal Princess joining Majestic, Sky and Caribbean Princess, the brand’s Europe 2027 programme now exceeds 250 voyages to more than 115 destinations across Northern Europe and the Mediterranean. "Princess is sailing Northern Europe like never before, presenting our most comprehensive programme yet," says Jim Berra, Princess Cruises’ chief commercial officer. "With enriched itineraries, broader destination choices, and more opportunities for guests to personalise their ideal 2027 summer getaway, this Northern Europe programme is more varied, more flexible, and more inspiring than ever.” Highlights include combinable routes from Southampton and Copenhagen, plus overnights in Stockholm and Cobh. New for Princess are turnarounds in Reykjavik and Helsinki, which is also introducing the 64‑day ‘Ultimate European Journey’ - its most immersive European voyage to date - and a 49‑day ‘Northern Europe Explorer’. In a statement the brand states that the scale, the overnights, and the flexibility to create multi‑segment ‘coolcation’ adventures truly set this programme apart. Debbie Holbrook, director - deployment & itinerary planning, Princess Cruises, comments on what drives these programmes: “Industry collaboration matters. Conferences such as the Cruise Europe Conference advance destination planning and sustainability, directly supporting our deployment strategy. Engaging with partners gives us insight into new infrastructure and shoreside experiences that guests will soon enjoy.   “Industry FAM trips have been invaluable: they put us on the ground with local stakeholders and sharpen our understanding of what our guests value at each port. That firsthand learning is reflected in the port‑intensive itineraries we’re bringing to Northern Europe.”   Gisli Johann Hallsson, harbour master Faxafloahafnir, says: “This is an important development for both Reykjavík and Iceland and is fully aligned with our long-term strategy. Welcoming another Princess ship turning in Reykjavik is a strong endorsement of the port, the destination, and the services we provide. As part of our continued efforts to support turnaround operations and improve the experience for both passengers and cruiselines, we are currently building a new, purpose-built cruise terminal in Reykjavik.” This is just one more step in the port’s aim to increase the percentage of turnaround calls to 70 percent of the total by 2030. Niamh McCarthy, managing director, Excursions Ireland: “It is truly exciting to see Princess’ continued commitment through the expansion and increase in port calls planned from 2027, with even greater growth anticipated in 2028. This expansion is a clear testament to strong demand, as well as to the high level of service and exceptional guest experience delivered throughout the British Isles.” As Princess’ shorex handler across the Republic and Northern Ireland, EI is actively creating and designing new tours with increased capacity while broadening its overall range of offerings. “The inclusion of overnight calls in 2027 means we can generate additional revenue through some excellent night time exclusive experiences,” adds McCarthy.   Gary Hall, commercial executive, Belfast Harbour, adds: “The announcement underlines the strength and longevity of the relationship between Princess Cruises and Belfast Harbour and reaffirms Belfast’s place within Princess Cruises’ Northern Europe deployment. Princess has been calling at Belfast since 2001… and has played an important role in the development of Belfast as a cruise destination. “Around one in three cruise passengers who have ever visited Belfast have arrived on a Princess vessel, highlighting the scale of their contribution. Cruise tourism now delivers close to £25 million (€28.9 million) annually to the Northern Ireland economy. Continued commitment from global cruise brands such as Princess Cruises ensures these benefits are sustained and that Belfast remains firmly positioned as a key port of call in Northern Europe.” When it comes to the Baltic, Sirle Arro, head of marketing & communication at the Port of Tallinn speaks for the region when she says: “Princess Cruises’ decision to deploy additional capacity and introduce the larger Regal Princess to the Baltic Sea region in 2027 clearly demonstrates that our region is once again emerging as one of the most attractive cruise destinations in the world. Already in 2025, we saw a strong rebound in demand, with the number of cruise passengers from the United States doubling year-on-year. This growth has not gone unnoticed, and leading American cruiselines are keen to be part of a region with such strong long-term potential.” Holbrook concludes: “We’re expanding because interest for Northern Europe travel continues to grow, and ports are investing in the future. Our guests love Northern Europe and our 2027 programme delivers it.”

15/01/2026

Portsmouth delivers Sea Change and sustainability

After signing the Portsmouth Green Partnership Charter in November 2022, delivering the Sea Change project reaffirms the port’s commitment to play its part in a sustainable future for the city and to reduce its impact on the local community. This project will design, build and operate a shore power system across the three busiest berths at Portsmouth International Port. “Sea Change has the potential to revolutionise the UK’s maritime sector, and further establish Portsmouth International Port’s [PIP]reputation as a living laboratory of green technology with industry-leading sustainability credentials,” explains Andrew Williamson, head of cruise & ferry, PIP. Brittany Ferries is already running two new LNG-electric hybrid ships, shore power-ready ships to and from the port. With shore power available at the port, they will be able to charge their batteries and run on battery power when manoeuvring through Portsmouth harbour, improving air quality and supporting the industry-wide shift to zero-emission shipping. Providing shore power will reduce harmful emissions and improve air quality around the port. PIP estimates that the system will avoid up to 20,000 tonnes of CO2e per annum from 2027, the equivalent to the annual carbon footprint of around 2,500 UK households or making 11,111 round trips by plane from London to New York.  When it comes to cruiseships, onshore power supply will be available at berth 2, with a mobile cable management system enabling connections for all shapes and sizes. A consortium of academics, marine specialists and some of the UK’s most exciting technology SMEs have been brought together alongside Portsmouth International Port and Brittany Ferries to deliver the project. Sea Change has great potential, and project partners plan to share learnings and collaborate with ferry ports across the UK to encourage further emissions reduction. This will help the industry reach net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by or around 2050, a target declared by the International Maritime Organisation. Alongside this, the project will help develop the necessary skills for green shipping and infrastructure, design, manufacturing and maintenance capability. Working alongside the Solent’s industry clusters, it will support education initiatives and help grow skills across the Solent, safeguard existing jobs through upskilling and create new high-skill opportunities, driving growth and investment across the region. Sea Change is part of the Zero Emissions Vessels and Infrastructure competition (ZEVI), which was announced in February 2023, funded by UK Government and delivered in partnership with Innovate UK. This year marks 50 years since Portsmouth City Council created the international port in 1976. Celebrations will begin with a launch event in Westminster presenting the latest economic impact report. On Saturday 13 June the port will host an open day so residents can see behind the scenes and find more out about all the activities at their port. Councillor Steve Pitt, leader of Portsmouth City Council, said: “The port is widely regarded as the UK’s most successful local authority owned port, the anniversary offers the opportunity to celebrate the progress and the important role it plays as a city-owned port on a local, national and international level. “The 50th anniversary year is a chance to put the spotlight and showcase roles at the port, highlighting the range of varied and interesting positions in the maritime industry as a future career for young people. Increasing local knowledge of what happens at the port, and an understanding of how it contributes to the city, is extremely valuable to the port to maintain our licence to operate from our most important stakeholders, our community.” 2026 also marks Portsmouth’s centenary, with many events and celebratory moments taking place to mark 100 years of city status. The port will be featuring in the city’s Wild Art Trail, which involves specially-commissioned sculptured lions positioned across the city, one of which is in the terminal building.

15/01/2026

Skjolden: growth but not without planning

Skjolden has gone from 22 calls in 2024 to 44 this year with bookings through into 2032. This year call numbers remain the same, but passenger numbers will be up by 7,000 due to the size of the ships. Understanding the pitfalls of growing too fast, privately-owned Skjolden Port is putting in place all that it needs to make sure it can deliver on its promises. This includes investment in port facilities, transport, guides and shore excursions. Christian Hellumsand was taken on as head of shore excursions & logistics at the port in April 2025. His role and passion is to ensure that cruise in this western Norwegian port is delivered well for both the cruiselines and the community. He says: “It is very nice to see this growing interest in Skjolden. We want to grow but we want to grow healthily. When we get trust from our clients, we want to deliver the product and the service.” To this end local entrepreneur, Oddvar Roysi, is not only investing in the port facilities and nearby restaurant and service station but is also actively involved in the building and delivery thereof. A 900m walk will bring passengers to the new restaurant and bar, The Wharf House, in one of the oldest buildings in the town, which is next door to a new service station being fitted with 16 toilets, a large souvenir store and outdoor serving area. Although the 127.5m pier (with no limitations to ship size) remains the same length, it has been widened to provide improved logistics for the passengers. In addition a part of the pier in front of the terminal will be filled in to provide space for a new market place that passengers can access as they enter/exit the terminal. At the northern end of the pier, extra parking will be available for buses to take passengers directly on to shore excursions. In addition, a sheltered area will be built early this year to protect passengers who may be waiting in poor weather. These will be within the port perimeter and directly connected to tours bought on board, but co coordinated with Skjolden Explore. This local guide company, delivering shorex for all tour operators, goes into operation for the first time this year. Local dispatch manager, Christian Hellumsand, will not only coordinate guides but timed meeting points and turn-times to ensure calls run smoothly. The idea is to have one command chain from ‘pier to peaks’, whilst preserving a strict local-vendor policy. To address the number of guides available to cater to the increase in passengers, Hellumsand says there has been a big push to recruit more with 30 lined up to join this year. These are made up from a combination of locals and those studying at the nearby mountaineering school. Supplying buses has also been a problem in the past, with some being sourced in southern Norway which is up to nine hours’ drive away. This is all set to change as Hellumsand explains: “Together with our investor we have decided to make our own bus company. We have bought 10 buses for about 45 passengers each, but also three smaller buses to allow us to create new tours.” The latter are small enough to legally access the Tindevegen Mountain Road and hence go over the mountains to neighbouring Ardal, providing a unique chance to see the mountains by road one way and the fjords by catamaran on the other. These buses will also be able to take passengers to the Unesco World Heritage Urnes Stave Church. When it comes to shorex a new and rebranded manual has been been put together by the locals and, new for this year, passengers will be able to meet ‘The last Viking’, death-diving icon, Ken Stornes. He is moving to Skjolden with his ship, Maria Suden, and sidekick, David R Berg/‘Swamp man’, to become a symbol of Skjolden, meeting and greeting, helping tie the bowlines in full Viking regalia and also hosting a family-friendly Viking training and saga experience. Skjolden is setting itself up to be a force on the cruise map, understanding that this comes not with numbers but service and product delivery.

15/01/2026

The Baltic Sea is not an alternative: it is part of the future of cruising

Cruising is entering a new phase. As travel trends shift toward authenticity, sustainability and emotional value, Northern Europe - and the Baltic Sea in particular - is increasingly aligned with the expectations of tomorrow’s cruise passengers. Across the travel sector, demand is moving away from overcrowded destinations and toward places that offer cultural depth and a sense of genuine discovery. In this context, the Baltic Sea stands out not because it is spectacular in scale, but because it is coherent in character. Its destinations share a broadly similar planning culture, social stability and relationship with nature. For cruise operators, this creates itineraries that are efficient to operate yet rich in content, without the growing friction associated with over-tourism. One of the Baltic’s defining strengths is easy access. Many ports are located close to city centres or directly integrated into small towns, allowing passengers to explore on foot rather than through long transfers. This reflects passenger preferences identified by Cruise Lines International Association, which show growing satisfaction with ports offering walkability, easy access and authentic local environments. Whether in larger cities such as Helsinki, Tallinn or Stockholm, or in smaller destinations like Kotka and Kalmar, proximity and immediacy play a central role in shaping the shore experience. The evolution of shore excursions further reinforces the Baltic’s relevance. Today’s passengers are less interested in ticking off landmarks and more interested in understanding where they are. They seek context, stories and a sense of everyday life. Smaller destinations are particularly well-suited to this shift. In places such as Saaremaa or Visby, heritage, landscape and contemporary life are closely interwoven, while in ports like Gdansk or Klaipeda, natural settings and industrial history sit side by side. These environments make it easier to offer excursions that feel grounded rather than performative, whether focused on history, gastronomy, nature or local society. Sustainability has become a defining commercial factor in cruise planning. Passengers increasingly evaluate destinations through ethical and environmental lenses, and cruise companies are expected to demonstrate responsible choices. Across the Baltic Sea region, many ports and municipalities are actively managing visitor flows, investing in greener infrastructure and prioritising long-term liveability. In Northern European ports, such as Copenhagen, particular attention has been given to how cruise tourism integrates with everyday urban life, focusing on dialogue with local communities, distribution of visitors and the use of public space. Smaller destinations, in particular, highlight the importance of balance: cruise calls are integrated into the rhythm of local life rather than dominating it. For operators, this enables partnerships based on predictability, trust and shared responsibility. The Baltic’s appeal is especially strong for experienced cruisers who have already visited the Mediterranean or Caribbean multiple times. As the cruise industry redefines what success looks like, destinations that offer balance, clarity and depth will become strategic assets. The Baltic Sea is one of them. It does not promise more. It promises better.

15/01/2026

CE at Sea takes place in February

Cruise Europe (CE) is taking to the sea on board MSC Splendida on February 7, providing its members with a four-day immersive educational on both the cruise business and experience. Embarkation takes place in Barcelona where members will be able to join a tour of Barcelona port before setting sail for Marseilles and a guided tour of the city, the basilica, the palace and the old port. As well as regional meetings on board, there will be a visit to Costa Cruises’ offices in Genoa to meet president Mario Zanetti and the itinerary planning, tours and development team. After a stroll around the port city, MSC Cruises’ Svetlana Cuk, Linden Coppell and Jon Olav Stedje will be conducting a workshop onboard focusing on community engagement, shorex and sustainability. Before disembarking in Naples at lunchtime, general secretary of Cruise Lines International Association Europe, Nikos Mertzanidis, will give a presentation on ‘Defending the cruise ecosystem in Brussels: the value, infrastructure and the road to net-zero’. To be followed by EPI ambassador, Annfinn Helm, on ‘Environmental Port Index: With EPI towards a greener future’. This is a first for the association and already has 100 members signed up for the carefully-curated programme.

18/12/2025

PORTO CRUISE TERMINAL ACHIEVES RECORD-BREAKING YEAR EXCEEDING THE 200,000 PASSENGER MILESTONE FOR THE FIRST TIME

The Porto Cruise Terminal (Port of Leixões) has reached a new milestone in its cruise activity by the end of October 2025: 216,644 passengers, an increase of nearly 30% compared to the same period in 2024 and its best-ever record. For the first time, the Porto Cruise Terminal surpassed the 200,000 annual passenger mark, seven years after reaching the 100,000 mark in 2018. By the end of November, cruise passenger numbers raised to 223,603, which means an increase of 18% compared to the same period of the last year. Porto Cruise Terminal recorded 145 cruise calls by November, matching the previous year’s figure and welcoming 13 maiden visits. In the same period, there were 12 turnaround operations, 5 of which involved around 5,000 passengers each. Turnaround passenger numbers soared to nearly 24,000 from just 2,121 the previous year. The size of the ships calling at the Port of Leixões also increased: the total Gross Tonnage (GT) reached 9.4 million, 9% more compared to 2024. British passengers were once again the most representative, closely followed by Germans and those from the United States. End year numbers point to 148 cruise ship calls and a new annual record of around 225,000 passengers. These numbers confirm the growing attractiveness of Porto and North of Portugal Region in the cruise sector and reinforce the confidence of the main international cruise lines in the Port of Leixões and in Porto Cruise Terminal.

18/12/2025

2025 Rouen Cruise Season Ends: Upscale Ocean and River Calls on the Seine

In 2025, Rouen handled 18 ocean cruise calls and 984 river cruise calls, making it a particularly active year on the Seine for both sea-going and river vessels. High-end river cruising also played an important role, with more premium and luxury ships using Rouen as a key stop on itineraries linking Paris and Normandy. The positive trend continued into 2026, with 16 ocean calls and 1,095 river cruises already on the books, helped by new vessels entering service on the Seine river. Rouen worked closely with a solid base of repeat clients, including Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, Hapag-Lloyd Cruises, Silversea Cruises, Windstar Cruises, and Azamara Cruises, and marked the inaugural call of Seabourn Cruise Line's Sojourn, which further strengthened its position with higher-end brands. Market segmentation in 2025 showed a clear shift compared with the pre‑pandemic years. Expedition calls rose to 6%, a noticeable increase for a segment that was almost absent before 2022, reflecting growing interest from smaller, exploration‑focused ships. The premium segment reached 56% of traffic, roughly double its long‑term average, underlining strong demand for more content‑rich, experience‑driven itineraries. Luxury cruises accounted for 33%, close to twice their historic share, and helped position Rouen firmly on the map for high‑spend international guests. Overall, 2025 marked a decisive move towards premium, luxury and high‑end river calls, while contemporary cruises continued to retreat, confirming Rouen’s appeal for operators targeting more discerning passengers.

16/12/2025

The European Union supports Port of Tallinn in establishing onshore power supply for cruise ships

The European Union approved funding for Port of Tallinn's project PoTOPS (Port of Tallinn Onshore Power Supply), which aims to create onshore power supply for cruise ships at two quays in the Tallinn Old City Harbour by 2030. The project, which will last more than three years, will include the construction of a power grid connection to the Elering ( Estonian electricity and power grid operator) main grid, a 110/10kV substation and onshore power supply infrastructure with connection equipment for cruise ships. The capacity of the substation will cover the need to supply two cruise ships with onshore power at quays no 26 and 27, as well as the needs of future hybrid and fully electric Ro-Pax ships. The estimated total cost of the PoTOPS project is 39.7 million euros and the amount up to 30% will be covered by the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) Alternative Fuels Infrastructure measure (AFIF). The Council of Port of Tallinn approved the investment, the planning and the works will begin as soon as possible. Valdo Kalm, the Chairman of the Board of Port of Tallinn, emphasized that the establishment of onshore power supply is crucial for the sustainability of cruise shipping. “Cruise tourism is important for the business of Port of Tallinn, but not only - it also creates jobs and economic value for the entire tourism sector. If we want cruise ships to visit Tallinn in the future, we have to be ready to offer them a modern and environmentally friendly onshore power solution by 2030,” said Kalm. The overall objective of Port of Tallinn's PoTOPS project contributes to the achievement of the European Green Deal goals and climate neutrality by 2050, based on the guidelines in Regulation (EU) 2023/1804 on the deployment of alternative fuels infrastructure and in TEN-T Regulation (EU) 2024/1679 on more sustainable port activities.

15/12/2025

Great news – Turku is an Tall Ships Races Anchor Port

The Tall Ships Races is a beloved and eagerly awaited summer highlight, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors to the banks of the Aura River In Turku. Turku has signed an agreement to host The Tall Ships Races sailing event from 6-9 July 2028. The Baltic Sea leg of the race will include the ports of Kiel, Turku, Tallinn, and Szczecin. Turku has already hosted the international Tall Ships Races five times in the past - the last event took place in July 2024. Last year, Turku was designated as the Baltic Sea anchor port for the Tall Ships Races, in recognition of its strong track record in organizing sailing events. The anchor port status guarantees Turku the right to host the Tall Ships Races every four years without a separate application process or competition with other candidate ports.

03/12/2025

The Port of A Coruña will offer OPS to cruise ships from 2027 in the Transatlanticos quay and Calvo Sotelo dock

The Board of Directors of the Port Authority of A Coruña awarded the construction and management of the electricity supply system for cruise ships to the specialist company Regenera OPS Dos SL, whose proposal received the highest score. Regenera will invest over €10 million in the installation of the OPS system (Onshore Power Supply). It will be installed both in the Transatlanticos quay and in the Calvo Sotelo Sur dock, which is used in the event of multiple cruise calls. It will allow for ships to turn off their engines during their stay in the city, avoiding emissions into the atmosphere. The system is expected to be operational in 2027. The concession is valid for 32 years, in accordance with the winning company's bid. The works will include the connection to the distribution grid, a transformer and frequency conversion centre, connection towers on both docks, an underground medium voltage network, two electric cable management vehicles for simultaneous supply to both docks and other facilities, equipment and systems. The main criteria to select the concessionaire, with a 40% score, have been the rates structure and maximum rates for the provision of the service, so that they are attractive for shipping companies with competitive energy prices. With the award of this public service contract, the Port of A Coruña will be one of the first ports in Spain to provide cruise ships with electricity. This will significantly increase its competitiveness in the sector, since shipping companies are strongly committed to sustainability and highly value the availability of OPS, to which most ships are already adapting. Almost 60% of cruise vessels are prepared to use the port service, and this figure is growing every year. The Port Authority continues to carry out actions aimed at boosting cruise ship calls in A Coruña, which are understood to be very beneficial for the city as a whole. An economic impact of €40 million per year in direct expense from cruisers and crew members is expected to have an impact on port and tourism services, commerce, bars and restaurants, transport, security, etc. Improvement works on the Transatlanticos quay are well advanced at present, with the aim of adapting its structure and fenders to accommodate the current size of the fleet. This project has received an investment of € 1.3 million. These works include the installation of the pipeline through which the OPS infrastructure will run.

27/11/2025

Bilbao starts engagement to design a new and sustainable facility in Getxo

The Bilbao Port Authority (BPA) is working on the design of a new sustainable and participatory management model for the Getxo marina and cruiseship terminal, in line with the metropolitan strategy and the United Nations (UN) 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. This initiative is supported by the UN Local2030 Coalition Secretariat for the implementation and development of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with a view to making Bilbao an example for other ports around the world. The Getxo Town Council and other stakeholders will be actively engaged in this process, which will include a period of active listening and public participation to collectively draw up the best possible plan for the future.   The design of the new model provides for an open, modern and sustainable area, fully integrated into urban life in Getxo and looking to further strengthen the role of the port as a driver of the economy and social development through cooperation and dialogue. Within a wider context, this strategic transformation is in keeping with that of the Bilbao metropolitan area itself over recent decades, forming part of a vision of local development in which the transformation of the port is catalytic and contributes to the transformation of the entire province of Bizkaia.   The roadmap, entitled Getxo/Bilbao Sustainable Port-City: An Integrated Approach 2030, covers the area of the Getxo marina and the current cruiseship terminal, both of which form part of the Spanish State Ports Authority (Ministry of Transport, Mobility and Urban Agenda of the Spanish Government). The port authority is thus ushering in a new era for the port. The project is expected to be structured and defined within a maximum period of two years, though the institutions involved are keen to present it sooner. As Amaia Agirre, mayoress of Getxo, explains: “We are working together as institutions to protect our common heritage and to ensure a stable and shared future for the marina and its surroundings. Getxo is now embarking on an exciting new chapter: a more open, more sustainable and better integrated marina that will be a source of pride for all the people of Getxo.”   Ivan Jimenez, president BPA, emphasised that “this process, in collaboration with Getxo Town Council, marks the beginning of an ambitious transformation, rooted in institutional cooperation and a strong commitment to the people of Getxo and the province of Bizkaia. “The port authority is fully involved in the design of a new model of green port that is of use for society, combining nautical activity with environmental, economic and social sustainability within a project that aims to be an international benchmark in port-city integration.”   For his part, Sebastien Vauzelle, head of the UN Local2030 Coalition Secretariat for the implementation and development of the SDGs, stated: “The Getxo/Bilbao Sustainable Port-City project is an inspiring example for ports and cities around the world through the Local2030 Hub Euskadi.”

27/11/2025

Cork is planning for onshore power

The Port of Cork is actively progressing plans to introduce onshore power at its cruise berth, marking a significant step toward more sustainable cruise operations. Feasibility studies have been completed and the planning and design stage is underway, with the aim of offering shore-side electricity to visiting vessels in the near future.

This initiative aligns with broader EU sustainability goals and reflects the Port’s commitment to reducing emissions and improving air quality in the harbour area. In July 2024, the Port of Cork was awarded €38.4 million in EU funding through the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF), which includes investment in infrastructure for onshore power supply (OPS) at Ringaskiddy’s new deepwater berths. While the cruise berth is not yet equipped with shore power, the port’s leadership has confirmed that the cruise sector is part of the long-term strategy, and the planning and design stage is already in motion.

The economic impact of cruise tourism in Cork continues to grow, with thousands of passengers and crew contributing to local businesses, transport services, and cultural attractions. Enhancing the sustainability of cruise calls through onshore power will not only improve the environmental footprint of the port but also strengthen its appeal to cruiselines seeking greener destinations. This development positions Cork as a forward-thinking port in the European cruise network, balancing economic growth with environmental responsibility. The final call of the 2025 season was made by Ambassador Cruise Line’s (ACL) Ambition, closing a year that saw 90 calls and over 170,000 passengers visit Cork and Bantry Bay. ACL coo, Nick Hughes, says: “Cobh and the wider Cork region have once again given our guests the warmest of welcomes, and it’s always a highlight of our sailing calendar to call here. As the final ship to close the Port of Cork’s 2025 cruise season, Ambition’s visit underlines the strong partnership we’ve built with the Port of Cork Company and the appeal this destination holds for both first-time and returning guests.   “Cork offers everything our guests look for in a port of call – a vibrant town, easy access to unforgettable experiences, and the genuine hospitality that makes Ireland such a special place to visit. We’re proud to contribute to the local economy and look forward to our second lady of the sea returning to the region seven times next year as part of another exciting season of sailings.”

27/11/2025

Oslo plans OPS on the Filipstad quay as tourism partners increase product

Cruise traffic flows through two separate terminals in the Port of Oslo: Revierkaia and Filipstad. Onshore power supply is tentatively scheduled to be operational in the third quarter of 2026. It will have the following capacities: 6,6kV/11kV; 50/60Hz; 16MVA at 11kV; and 9,6MVA at 6,6kV. Meanwhile VisitOSLO and the Oslo Cruise Partners goes from strength to strength with the latter adding new members, most recently Roald Amundsens Home and the Hard Rock Cafe, on a fairly consistent basis. The VisitOSLO website provides comprehensive information on activities and experiences, that are available for both passengers and crew, in the form of a Cruise Manual and Crew Manual. Cruise partners from Scenorama to the Fram Museum to the Pilgrim Center Oslo are constantly updating their offerings. The latter, for example, is walking distance from both piers and offers guidebooks and information on pilgrim trails in Norway. In addition, the re-opening of the Museum of the Viking Age in 2027 is eagerly awaited. The world’s largest preserved Viking ship, Gokstad (built around 890 AD), and also Oseberg (discovered in 1903), have been relocated to this new museum: the latter after 10 years of planning. Eva Britt Kornfeldt, cruise manager VisitOSLO/Oslo Cruise Partners, says: “New signage is planned on both cruise piers, Filipstad and Revier, which are centrally located and within walking distance from Oslo’s main street. The souvenir shop, Oslo Cruise Terminal, is established at both piers, and is always open when cruiseships call, providing free city maps, free WiFi and also tax refund processing.” Oslo Cruise Partners will, for the fourth time in 2026, invite all cruise agents working with Oslo to a cruise agent fam trip in Oslo in February 2026 with the goal of updating them on all the latest news.

27/11/2025

New member: Helsingor

As the home of UNESCO World Heritage Site Kronborg Castle (the castle from Shakespeare’s Hamlet), Helsingor offers a blend of world-famous history and modern Scandinavian design. Its intimate, walkable town centre and proximity to North Zealand’s top attractions make it a captivating addition to Baltic itineraries. Helsingor is a strong tender destination. A secure, sheltered anchorage lies just 0.3nm southeast of the port entrance with 20m+ depth and no vessel size limit. Passengers arrive via a modern, ISPS-approved floating tender pier (90m x 6m) that accommodates four tender boats simultaneously. A tender ride takes only five to 10 minutes, and then passengers are right in the middle of the historic town centre, having a great view of Kronborg Castle while entering the port.  
In addition, Royal Quay sits almost right in the town centre and accommodates vessels up to 150m length overall with 6.8m depth. The quay provides essential services, including fresh water and comprehensive waste disposal. The port is well-sheltered with minimal tide (maximum 0.3m) and typical north-going currents of one to three knots. Pilotage and tugs are available but not compulsory. 
“What truly differentiates Helsingor is the Lite Call Concept, offering cruise lines lighter logistics, a lighter time commitment, and a lighter price tag,” says Mathias Monrad Bruun, cruise manager in Port of Helsingor, who explains that a Lite Call works in two directions: *A ship approaching Copenhagen anchors at Helsingor, tenders passengers ashore to explore the area, and continues to Copenhagen without re-embarkation. Passengers rejoin the ship in Copenhagen later. *A ship calls Copenhagen first, and guests travel by bus/train to Helsingor. A welcome hub can be arranged, and the ship later picks up the guests in Helsingor.   Lite Calls include a fixed reduced port fee and require operations to be a maximum of three hours and only include either embarking or disembarking guests, not both. The sailing time to Copenhagen is just 1.5 hours, and land transfers between the cities take about 45 minutes.   “The Lite Call concept is a way for Helsingor to turn its proximity to Copenhagen into an advantage. Many of the cruise guests calling Copenhagen already tour North Sealand and visit Helsingor, why not make it even more accessible for cruise lines and even more memorable for cruise guests,” adds Bruun. Passengers are greeted with tourist information and maps on arrival. Within minutes, they can explore: Kronborg Castle; M/S Maritime Museum of Denmark, the architectural reconstruction of an old dry dock into a modern museum; The Culture Yard, a reconstructed shipyard turned into a culture house, maritime workshop and street food market; the historic Renaissance town centre of Gothic townhouses, churches and cobblestone streets; and North Zealand highlights within 30 minutes: Frederiksborg Castle, Fredensborg Palace, and Louisiana Museum of Modern Art.  
 After hosting two to three cruise calls annually in recent years, Helsingor is strengthening its position, now joining Cruise Europe, and hiring Bruun who was a key organiser of the Cruise Europe Conference in Copenhagen in May this year.  

27/11/2025

CE members join ICS panel sessions in Madrid

The International Cruise Summit was held in Madrid for the 15th year this November. Cruise Europe members were featured in a number of panel sessions during the two-day event. Speaking as chair of the sustainability committee of Cruise Europe, Ana Lourenco from the Port of Lisbon, joined a panel on: cruise destinations - the real economic impact & the blue economy. Fellow speakers included Anne-Marie Spinosi from Corsica Ports, Omar Al Jaber from Qatar Tourism and Ceylan Erzi from Global Ports Holding. Amongst other things, she highlighted the data-driven collaboration in building a more resilient and responsible blue economy. Morgan Pravos, cruise manager at Caen-Ouistreham, took part in the New ports and destinations, discovering the potential of cruise tourism season, alongside Elizabeth Moreau of the Port of Baie-Comeau and Marcus Puttich of TUI Cruises. And last but not least Nick Hoogeweij, general manager Cruise Port Rotterdam and chair of CE’s marketing committee, contributed his insights to The great debate, a live-voted session exploring the most pressing topics in today’s cruise industry. He joined industry leaders from Intercruises Shoreside and Port Services, TUI Cruises, Mystic Cruises and the Port of Valencia discussing topics ranging from market shifts to guest expectations, sustainability and operational resilience.

27/11/2025

Reykjavik hosts the Cruise Europe conference next May

The chance to attend the Cruise Europe conference (CEC) and visit Iceland next May (26-29th) is not one to be missed. Hosts Faxafloahafnir/Faxaports have already uploaded details on to the CE website and are encouraging members to sign up early as Iceland is a popular destination at this time of year. Special rates are available for those attending the conference. The conference itself will be held at the Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Centre which is within 10 minutes’ walk of the four partner hotels: Parliament Hotel, Hotel Reykjavik Saga, Exeter Hotel and City Center Hotel Reykjavik. The Reykjavik Cruise Terminal at Skarfabakki will host delegates to an informal dinner on the first evening but an invitation has also been issued to everyone to stay on for the official opening festival on the Friday night. I am sure many of us will be keen to not only extend our stays for this but also to see more of Iceland. The gala dinner will take place at Gamla Bio, a historic cinema established in the early 20th century with preceding drinks at the rooftop bar.

27/11/2025

New associate member: MTC Hamburg

Established in 2009, MTC Hamburg has become a leading provider of world-class maritime training, renowned for its certified programmes, highly qualified instructors, and advanced simulation facilities in western Hamburg. MTC offers comprehensive training, consultancy, and assessments for bridge and engine personnel, safety and leadership development, and advanced simulator courses: all fully aligned with STCW, the IGF Code, and international standards. For cruise operators, the portfolio includes POD courses as well as Train the Trainer and Conventional Ship Handling courses for several large cruiselines. Each year, more than 4,500 of maritime professionals enhance their practical skills in realistic environments with experienced instructors. Furthermore, MTC is developing new modules tailored to cruise-specific challenges, such as sustainability and safety at sea. Each vessel is precisely modelled and implemented into our shiphandling simulator, which comprises more than 200 different vessel types. Heinz Kuhlmann, managing director, says: “At MTC, we deliver professional cruise training: made in Hamburg”.