News

03/06/2026

Beyond the port: rethinking shore excursions for today’s traveller

Cooperating with local communities and suppliers to create new products and services is becoming more important as guests show an increasing interest in maximising the experience and, also, in activities and venues that are less frequented, explained Susanna Capaccio, manager destination experiences at Silversea Cruises. Anticipating trends and finding answers to provide different experiences for different travellers is on the agenda of Maria Tauschke, head of shore operations at TUI Cruises. One of those trends is that of independents booking shore excursions for themselves, which is a topic that is gaining traction. “How do we communicate our added value for guests to book shorex with us,” she asked. While Abigail Crossley, director strategic sourcing at Carnival Corp UK, said that ratings drawn from guest feedback forms show that: “Guests who take excursions tend to rate a destination more highly than those who choose to explore independently.” “Guests have more choice than ever before and we have to meet those challenges and deliver something for them. We need clear messaging and to be positive about why they should come with us,” she added. Which is when Amanda Kordt, director shore excursions, European Cruise Services, mentioned that one solution could be for cruiselines to lower their markup on tours. She also mentioned the need for variety and the need to keep being dynamic as, for example, “middle-class is not necessarily that person any more compared to five/10 years ago”. For Silversea, Carpaccio explained that the challenge is more about the lack of infrastructure (buses/guides etc) than it is about costs. “The solution is to have constant communication with all the stakeholders to find solutions,” she said, while adding: “As demand grows it is important to maintain a standard of quality.” There was some discussion about the use of AI whereby Tauschke explained that TUI was conducting a test pilot on board Mein Schiff 2. Moderator Niamh McCarthy, ceo Excursions Ireland, concluded: “Whilst we are in a world that is changing, the human interaction has to be at the core of the excursion. We have to find that blend”.

03/06/2026

Community value: from port to city

Eva Britt Kornfeldt, manager Oslo Cruise Partners and Svalbard Cruise Forum (SCF), shared some of her experiences on this subject. In particular she mentioned the SCF, which was established in 2023, and puts its efforts into shared responsibility and continuous dialogue with stakeholders. She also mentioned that a pre-season mandatory meeting of the 150 participants is held for those visiting Svalbard about eco-sensitivity and mandatory rules of engagement. Melanie Lewis, director shore excursions & product development at Holland America Group, shares some top tips about what is gaining traction in terms of excursions: meet the makers; community connections/social sustainability; and urban explorer, for example sharing a day with a local. At MSC Cruises, manager community engagement and sustainability, Jon Olav Stedje, highlighted the importance of making sure there is dialogue between the cruiseline and the destination but also in the port/destination itself. He made a request: “We need to have a proactive approach and help where it is needed. Bookings are made so far ahead, so use the time wisely to make it the best you can. We are here to help”. Ceo of Visit Reykjavik, Inga Hlin Palsdottir confirmed that the cruise industry can be unfairly targeted and was keen to highlight the need to “build bridges by having meetings so that everyone can see what is happening”, adding that supplying data and being seen as part of the visitor community, not separately, is important in this respect. She also made the valid point that: “The satisfaction rate of the residents is also important.” Stedje concluded: “There are a lot of false perceptions about our industry. Once again, this goes back to communication in the industry and in the destination to be able to [provide] answers.”

03/06/2026

Three sessions, three topics … increasing understanding

***A morning session on ‘Small ships, different stories: understanding expedition cruising’, moderated by Liz Gammon, Seatrade expedition ambassador, explored the difference between expedition and small ships. Hugues Lamy, director port operations at Swan Hellenic, perhaps solved this riddle with an expedition ship being self-sufficient and able to call anywhere. He went on to say that new destinations can test the industry with expedition ships and see how it goes before accepting small ships. While Kelly Hubbard, director & product development at Windstar Cruises, said: “We need different experiences in the summer and winter and we need more infrastructure in the small ports”, for example making sure attractions, shops etc, are open when a ship comes in. Something as simple as local guides greeting the passengers with their own stories is very welcome. Even here there was a request for confirmed bookings. She said: “I don’t love the message of ‘bumping’ if you get a bigger ship booking. If you say it is confirmed, please keep it confirmed.” Lamy added: “It is better to tell us that a big ship is coming in at the same time than not being able to give us the services we need.” ***Ana Lourenco, cruise manager Port of Lisbon & chair of the CE sustainability group, opened a session on the important subject: ‘The cost of decarbonisation: Who pays and how we stay competitive”. Both Michele Franchioni, chief energy transition officer, MSC Cruises, and Ingvar Mathisen, ceo at the Port of Oslo, discussed the high cost element of connecting and also of installing onshore power supply (OPS). In explaining that MSC Cruises connects where possible, it being an “effective way of reducing local pollution”, he said: “We experience significant high costs of connection depending on the type of port, the ships and the fuel. We can have costs 100 percent higher than running on our own fuel. We need to work together to mitigate the costs.” He also mentioned the technical challenges involved, such as black-outs and incompatibility between the ship and port in some places. In terms of costs, Franchioni explained that the port pays for the shoreside infrastructure and the cruiseline that of the vessels but he said: “Long-term contracts between the line and port should help”. Mathisen pointed out that: “It is crucial to get funding as the investment is significant”. In terms of future regulations making OPS mandatory, he said: “As ports we have to be efficient re use of the grid. We also have to incentivise cruiselines to use it, for example via EPI.” He was keen to add that there has been less negativity about cruiseships from the Oslo community since the arrival of OPS connections. Franchioni concluded: “If we are united in talking to government, we will find some solutions. We must work together.” ***Jakobsdottir introduced the session on ‘EU regulations and their impact on the cruise & port industry’. What can be a somewhat dry subject was certainly given a boost by herself together with Sandra Weir, VP government relations & public affairs, NCL Holdings, and Alessandro Carollo, AVP government relations at Royal Caribbean Group. Carollo kicked off with the EES which is now up and running after a soft launch last year. He made the point that normal disembarkation of a large ship can take anything between three and 10 hours and that it is up to the ports to put on more desks and more staff where necessary. “We have known [this was coming] since 2017 so you could have been prepared,” he pointed out. Costs again came to fore. Sudden increases in port costs, taxes and restrictions coming in after calls have been announced 18-24 months ahead cause problems for cruiselines as, due to regulation, after tickets have been sold to passengers, these cannot be passed on. “We need destinations within themselves to agree a cruise strategy and then come to us with problems to work on rather than we finding, with short notice, that there is, for example, an extra tax”. Weir pointed out that, OPS aside: “We need fuels for when we are at sea. We need EU money to go into port infrastructure re storing fuels in port.” In general, she added that whatever the challenge: “It is all about open and honest dialogue. We can come up with better solutions together for regulations that can be advantageous for both parties.”

03/06/2026

Turning ideas into action

Following last year’s successful Cruise Europe workshop, The Cruise Europe Lab, led by Luis de Carvalho and Louise Landler of Copenhagen Malmo Port (CMP), filled the final spot of the day ensuring a lively interactive session whereby all could participate. There were about 250 participants in the workshop divided into five groups of a total of 20 tables. Each were given a different initiative on which to focus, define and suggest solutions to any challenges. Each was adjudicated by a cruiseline executive who summarised the findings at the end of the proceedings. Initiative 1, Cruise & community value: strengthening local value and transparency, was led by Jonathan Hawkings from Royal Caribbean. Initiative 2, Winter cruise readiness: unlocking year-round cruise potential, saw Marie Blitza of Carnival Maritime at the helm. Initiative 3, When plans change: improving cruise disruption coordination, had Odette McFarlane of Carnival UK listening in. Initiative 4, Evolving guest behaviour: rethinking the cruise experience & revenue model, was overseen by Robert de Bruin of Holland America Line. Initiative 5: Managing guest flows: from congestion to coordination, had Kyle Dunst from Princess Cruises to thank for his input. The room was abuzz with discussion for what is a valuable source of innovative thinking towards future strategies. De Carvalho and Landler are in the process of collecting and assembling the conclusions of all tables into a report/key takeaways document that will be shared will all participants in the next weeks.

03/06/2026

Kicking back and networking events

Hosts Ports of Faxafloi went above and beyond in entertaining its guests during the conference. From the VIP tour to Thingvellir National Park and seat of the oldest democratic parliament in the world, Eyrarbakki and Grindavik, led by Gudni Th Johannessen, former president of Iceland, to the gala dinner and entertainment from Vigdis Haflioadottir and Egill Andrason at Gamla Bio, we were given a flavour of the country’s food, culture, humour and music. With the official opening of the Vor, Reykjavik Cruise Terminal, taking place on Friday May 29, we were give a sneak peak at the informal dinner on the Wednesday night. For some the boat trip over was accompanied by songs from none other than ‘Muggi’, Gudmundur Magnus Kristjansson, former port director of Isafjordur, a well-known member and stage presence on the CE circuit. Managing director of CE, Jens Skrede, also made an appearance with the song “One Frank in Iceland”! Further music from DJ Hermigervill ensued which had the regulars up on the dance floor early on in the proceedings while many were enjoying the exceptional buffet and views. Tolt at The Edition provided a welcome place to take a break between the day and the evening and a chance to establish and renew friendships after a day’s work.

03/06/2026

CEC 2027 goes to Bergen

As Iceland passes the baton to Norway, please mark your calendars for the next Cruise Europe conference which will take place in Bergen. Bergen is the second largest city in Norway and, with a population of about 295,000, is twice the size of Reykjavik, just to give you some idea of scale. Rich in maritime history, known for its colourful waterfront, and with surrounding mountains, Bergen is no stranger to the challenges that can be faced and overcome when it comes to the cruise industry. CEC 2027 promises to be another show stopping event.

28/04/2026

Dover becomes UK’s first net-zero port

On April 14, the Port of Dover announced it had achieved its target of carbon net zero emissions (Scope 1 and 2) for 2025, five years ahead of any other UK port, and 25 years ahead of the UK government’s maritime target. Wendy Atkin-Smith, managing director of Viking UK which has 27 calls to Dover this year, commented: “We offer our congratulations to the Port of Dover for becoming the UK’s first net-zero port, particularly as they have achieved this before the target date. In line with the port’s efforts, as a global leader in experiential travel, we are very mindful of our responsibility to the environment ourselves. Like the Port of Dover, our long-term success depends on our ability to develop programmes that meet or exceed both the global regulatory frameworks and local regulations for each area we visit. From the beginning, our approach has focused on minimising impact through design and technology, including reducing fuel consumption.” The port’s emissions for Scope 1 and 2 have fallen by a huge 98.3% from 2007, with residual emissions being offset through a local regenerative farming scheme issued under the UK Carbon Code of Conduct. The Short Straits counts for eight percent of all UK maritime emissions, so this news is a significant step forward for the future of maritime decarbonisation. Doug Bannister, ceo Port of Dover, said: “We are proud to be celebrating this milestone moment, which has seen our carbon emissions reduce drastically from nearly 14,000 tonnes 18 years ago. We are not stopping here. We want Dover to be a global leader, putting the UK on the global stage as home to the world’s first high-volume Green Shipping Corridor here on the Short Straits. This sustainability drive is an essential part of our Port of Dover 2050 Masterplan, helping to protect the UK’s competitiveness and drive economic growth in an efficient and sustainable manner.” The port’s longer-term ambitions require strong partnerships with industry and government. Its Scope 1 and 2 achievements have, however, been accomplished through its own drive and determination to champion sustainable maritime trade and travel. Examples include: *Purchasing sustainably sourced HVO (hydrotreated vegetable oil) to operate machinery *Installing 1.5MW of on-site solar generation *General energy efficiency improvements, such as purchasing renewable electricity and using LED lighting and heating controls *Residual emissions being offset through an approved local regenerative farming scheme, which has produced carbon credits under the UK Carbon Code of Conduct The port also recently achieved recertification under the EcoPorts environmental management standard (PERS) for the fourth time, which is the only port-specific environmental management classification. Peter Wright, head of cruise at the port, said: “As a major homeporting and transit destination with passenger numbers growing, delivering our operations sustainably is vital to the continuing success of the Dover cruise business. “Beyond the port’s net zero achievement, we have implemented a range of other environmental initiatives, notably our longstanding Safety and Environment Awareness Award (SEA award) which in its ninth year, has championed improvements in waste management and CO2 emissions by cruiselines.”

28/04/2026

IJmuiden celebrates 25 years of cruising

On March 25, IJmuiden came together to celebrate 25 years aboard Ambassador Cruise Line’s Renaissance. As KVSA and colleagues from the Felison Cruise Terminal and Port of IJmuiden, joined service providers, as well as representatives of the boatmen, tug services, and the municipality, they were able to demonstrate just what a great cooperation between the ship and port can achieve. The first ship to call IJmuiden back in 2001 was Fred Olsen Cruise Lines’ Black Prince with the business growing gradually until 2012 with the opening of the Felison Cruise Terminal, a dedicated building for cruise passengers. This paved the way for regular calls from companies such as MSC Cruises, Costa and Holland America Line with 63 calls in 2019, a record at the time. While the corona pandemic brought a stop to calls, IJmuiden was one of a few ports where ships could go for crew changes, necessary resupply and maintenance calls. This year IJmuiden also celebrates its 750th call. Additionally, KVSA (Royal United Ship Agencies), the parent company behind the Felison Cruise Terminals, is celebrating its 150th anniversary. Moreover, a new record is expected for 2026 with 76 calls scheduled. Next year the port expects to reach another milestone, 100,000 passengers. The terminal’s location close to the open sea, means vessels can berth shortly after entering the port, hence reducing sailing time. At the same time, the terminal provides easy access to the Amsterdam Metropolitan Region. Excursion programmes typically include cities such as Amsterdam, Haarlem, Delft and Leiden. Visitors can also travel to well-known attractions including the Zaanse Schans and the Keukenhof gardens during the spring season. 

28/04/2026

Rotterdam releases comprehensive study on economic impact and sustainability

On March 30, a study examining how cruise activity translates into local and regional economic effects for Rotterdam - Rotterdam | Economic Impact & Sustainability of the Cruise Industry – was published. “Every other year a study is commissioned in support of our industry to exchange correct and referenced facts,” explains Nick Hoogeweij, general manager, Cruise Port Rotterdam. The 52-page study focuses on two main factors: expenditure by cruise guests and crew while ashore and the funds cruiselines spend locally. Additionally, it examines sustainability transitions in the cruise segment with a particular focus on ecological sustainability. The comprehensive report provides in depth analysis of both the above factors. Here we highlight a few key points. In 2025, cruise tourism generated significant economic effects across Europe: a total output of €62.1 billion, €28.9 billion in GDP, and approximately 455,000 jobs. Within this European context, the Netherlands ranked among the top ten beneficiary countries, with an estimated €1.01 billion in cruise-related output. In 2025 Rotterdam received 121 calls and almost 500,000 passengers. Assuming that 80% are transit day visitors spending €115 each and 20% are embark/disembark guests spending €250 each, direct passenger outlays would total around €71 million. In terms of crew, with 121 calls and an average of 1,000 crew members per call, with 35% taking shore leave and spending €50 per person, the crew's total spending was around €2.2–3.1 million, depending on the shore leave rate (35–50%). Onshore power (OPS) was activated at the Holland Amerika Kade on March 31 2025 with AIDAnova being the first cruiseship to plug in. Shore power is analysed as a near-term intervention with a significant local impact on air quality, noise, and greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction while at berth. This intervention is now supported by EU regulations (FuelEU Maritime and AFIR) and cost signals from the EU Emissions Trading System (EU ETS). The discussion of alternative fuels evaluates operational trials with advanced biofuels, the status of LNG (including methane slip risks), and Rotterdam’s growing infrastructure for methanol and preparations for ammonia.   The study argues that Rotterdam is a major driver advancing the development of OPS, focusing on the rapid deployment of shore power and the emerging portfolio of alternative marine fuels.

28/04/2026

Bergen established a cruise network

Bergen Cruise Network was launched in February 2026 and brings together key stakeholders across the local cruise value chain, including the Port of Bergen, shore excursion providers, transport companies, and attractions. The network was initiated by the Port of Bergen in cooperation with Visit Bergen, Bergen City Centre (Bergen Sentrum), the Municipality of Bergen, and Vestland County Council. Krysta Alexa Singh, managing director, Bergen Cruise Network and cruise destination manager, Port of Bergen, explains: “The network was established in response to a clear need for better coordination, improved information flow, and greater predictability for both the destination and cruiselines. As one of the world’s most sustainable ports and the largest cruise port in Norway, Bergen recognises the importance of a more collaborative approach to destination development.” The aim, she adds, is not to increase cruise volumes, but to strengthen quality, coordination, and local value creation. This includes improving communication and destination overview, supporting product development across stakeholders, enhancing passenger flow, and promoting a more sustainable approach to cruise tourism. Singh concludes: “The level of engagement has exceeded even my own ambitious expectations and clearly shows the commitment across our industry to strengthen collaboration and coordination. I’m genuinely excited about what we can build together.”

28/04/2026

Tallinn: Estonian government minister attends Seatrade

The cruise industry is important to Estonia as demonstrated by the attendance of Kristjan Truu, deputy minister, maritime affairs & water resources, Estonian Ministry of Climate, at Seatrade Global this April.   “For Estonia, the cruise industry has two main pillars. The first is Estonia as a cruise destination. Tallinn is already a popular and growing cruise destination in the Baltic Sea region, and we are pleased to welcome hundreds of thousands of cruise visitors each year. In the future, we would also like to see more opportunities for cruises to embark from Tallinn,  allowing  also Estonians to start their cruise journeys from home. “Second, the cruise industry is also important from a business perspective. Estonia is home to a number of shipbuilding and ship repair companies that have long worked with cruise lines, supplying products and services such as bathroom solutions, vessel services, and other specialised support,” explained Truu.   The maritime sector in Estonia is comparable in size to agriculture, accounting for about four percent of the economy. Looking ahead, ambitions are high, as Truu noted: “The goal is to go from four to eight percent in the next 10 to 15 years through cooperation between the private and public sectors.”   With respect to cruises, he commented that Estonians are used to taking mini cruises but he believes that there is a place for cruiselines to open up cabins on ships sailing out of Tallinn to the locals so they can experience the product.

28/04/2026

Le Havre opens Verrazzano Cruise Terminal

The new Le Havre Verrazzano Cruise Terminal complex is due to be commissioned in autumn 2026, bringing together three modern terminals designed to welcome ships and passengers efficiently. Terminals 2 and 3 have been fully operational since 1 April 2026 and are already welcoming 2026 season cruise calls in excellent conditions. Delivered in February 2026, they entered service at the beginning of April, marking a key milestone in the phased commissioning of the new complex. Terminal 1 will complete the overall project upon its delivery later this year.” Alexandra Ruiz, chief executive officer of Le Havre Croisieres, comments: “The opening of the Le Havre Verrazzano cruise terminal represents a major milestone for our destination and for the French cruise industry. Thanks to these new facilities, Le Havre strengthens its position as a leading port of call and turnaround port in Northern Europe, combining operational excellence, passenger comfort, and a strong commitment to sustainable port development. ”   Terminal 1, the architectural centrepiece of the project, is located facing the city centre of Le Havre, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The 7,295m3 terminal area can service 4,500 passengers a day. The Roger Meunier Quay has a usable length of 380m, a depth of 10m and no air draught limit. It will have shore power by the end of 2026 and will be LNG-ready.   The phased terminals delivery marks the culmination of a major project initiated in 2019–2020 with preliminary studies. Following the launch of the tender process in July 2021 and the selection of the winning consortium in June 2022, construction work officially began in June 2024. A further important milestone was reached in October 2025 with the commissioning of shore power supply on the Quai Pierre Callet (Terminal 2).   Since the opening of Terminals 2 and 3, the new facilities have already welcomed a wide range of vessels, including AIDAsol, Ambition, Majestic Princess, Nieuw Statendam, MSC Virtuosa, Norwegian Sky, MSC Preziosa, AIDAperla and Sapphire Princess. These initial calls, including several double-call days as well as transit operations, partial turnarounds and full turnarounds, illustrate the operational flexibility and the immediate success of these new infrastructures. Despite the complexity of the construction site, the GIP Le Havre Croisieres, project lead, has managed to maintain cruise operations throughout the works, continuing to accommodate all scheduled calls at two berths.   In 2026, Le Havre is expecting 141 calls, compared with 137 in 2025, including 17 double calls, one triple call, six full turnarounds, as well as numerous partial turnaround operations. The season will also include six inaugural calls. The official inauguration date has not yet been announced, but it is expected to take place after the completion of Terminal 1 in autumn 2026.

28/04/2026

Caen readies for Colombelles opening

The construction work for the replacement of the Colombelles Bridge has begun for the French boutique port of Caen. The opening is scheduled for summer 2027, paving the way for larger vessels to call. Being 40m wider in terms of navigable width, will allow vessels of 185m in length, compared to the previous 165m, to call. “I think the bridge is a game changer. This is a really good opportunity to attract new cruiselines to the port and open the doors of Normandy to their guests,” explained Morgan Pravos, cruise manager, Caen Tourism. “Even for lines with smaller ships it will be much more comfortable and it could add calls as it will be easier to navigate on the Caen canal which is an experience in itself”. Indeed from meetings Pravos had at Seatrade Global, the view is looking very positive. Already the French port is welcoming newcomers. This year Aurora Expeditions makes a maiden visit, and next year SeaDream Yacht Club, Windstar Cruises, Plantours and Swan Hellenic all call for the first time. When it comes to shore excursions, top of the list are the D-Day landing sites, with Unesco Mont St Michel, the Bayeux Tapestry and Pays d’Auge (for local produce) following close behind. Caen is also a destination in itself with a historic centre including two abbeys and William the Conqueror’s castle, all accessible on foot from the new city centre cruise berth. Next year marks the Normandy millennium and will be marked by the opening of a new Viking Museum on the other side of the canal. In 2030 private collection Foundation Gandur will open. The port can also act as a turnaround port for Paris. Caen goes out of its way to welcome its passengers and crew providing free shuttles, bikes and tastings to all who visit. “We coordinate with our cruiseline partners ahead of each call to tailor the experience as much as possible for their guests,” concluded Pravos.

28/04/2026

Greenock transforms over the winter

Greenock Cruise Port (GCP), operated by Global Ports Holding, launched its 2026 season with a turnaround call from Ponant’s Le Laperouse, the first of 14 by the French operator this year. The port has undergone a series of infrastructure and guest experience improvements over the winter months, all designed to deliver a higher quality and more seamless experience for cruise guests, crew and partners. Allison McGuire, who was brought in as operations manager last August, says: “Everything we have done is aimed at improving the guest experience. So far GPH have invested £200,000 [€230,820] in the upgrades. I think the future for Greenock looks very bright because we never had much investment before. The previous owners were multiport and now we specialise in cruise.” In addition Greenock is undergoing a significant period of regeneration, with over £60 million (€69.25 million) of public and private investment transforming both the waterfront and town centre. This includes major UK government backing for Inchgreen Marine Park, long-term funding for town centre revitalisation, and the recent £20 million cruise visitor terminal , positioning the town as a growing hub for maritime, tourism and economic development. Enhancements included the removal of outdated gates, widened guest walkways, upgraded security arrangements, improved seating areas, enhanced passenger flow routes, extra and improved signage and quicker baggage handling services to better support turnaround operations. The port’s marquee facility has also been upgraded to create a better environment and expanded retail offering, helping showcase more local products and experiences to visiting passengers. Within the terminal building, a new welcome facility has been introduced to improve guest orientation and strengthen the arrival experience from the moment guests step ashore. This year more than 77 calls are scheduled bringing over 145,000 visitors into Inverclyde and the west of Scotland. GPH is expecting a 10 percent increase next year. Vessels of 345m in length and 9.2m draught can come alongside the pontoon. A commercial berth is also available if two ships call but McGuire is keen to emphasise that the guest experience is paramount. Looking to the future, a study is being conducted to explore whether it could be possible to provide fresh water at the berth. As far as OPS is concerned, McGuire explains that the infrastructure in Scotland makes this difficult. “I cannot see this happening unless it is mandated.”

28/04/2026

Stornoway deepwater terminal bringing in positive results

Stornoway Port has 93 calls and 75,000 passengers this season, a massive rise from 57 and 16,000 pre-Covid. Next year looks set for another significant increase to over 90 calls and 100,000 as Kirsty Hutchison, cruise & marketing manager, explained. The growth is due to a number of circumstances but the £59 million (€68 million) Deep Water Terminal/berth, being the only one north of Greenock, is proving a major plus. “Ships that went past us can now come in,” she explains. but this does not diminish the expedition ship business which is also doing well. While the smaller ships can come into the town centre, it is now possible to have a large ship on the deepwater berth at the same time. Hutchison comments that the community generally see cruise as a positive: “We receive a lot of queries about how they can be involved.”   The season is expected to bring an estimated £7.8 million to the Outer Hebrides economy. This highlights the increasing importance of cruise tourism to the islands’ economy, supporting local businesses, hospitality providers, and visitor attractions.   Looking ahead, the port is progressing plans for the next phase of development at the Terminal, alongside the ongoing development of Arnish Road, to further build capacity and resilience across the estate.   “These investments are about more than infrastructure alone. They are about securing lasting economic benefit for the Outer Hebrides, creating opportunity, supporting high-quality employment and ensuring Stornoway continues to play a leading role in Scotland’s cruise offering,” explained Hutchison.

28/04/2026

Kristiansund offers backup pier

Kristiansund is offering an alternative berth at Averoy, which is 20 minutes’ drive from the town. Tenders can also be used, weather permitting. The pier is primarily intended as a back-up berth for vessels that have booked Kristiansund but are unable to access the inner harbour due to weather conditions, explains Erika Indergaard, cruise & marketing manager, Port of Kristiansund & Nordmore. One of the main advantages is that buses and guides already booked for Kristiansund can be used, with only minor adjustments to the excursion programme. “For us, it’s important that the guests remain in our region, instead of seeking a neighbouring port,” she adds.   The berth can accommodate cruiseships up to 340m that, regardless of weather conditions, are unable to berth in Kristiansund town centre, where the pier limitation is a maximum ship length of 300m. However, the port is still working to determine to what extent the region can secure sufficient buses for passengers who have not pre-booked excursions.   The berth is located in an industrial area - with stunning views - with limited options for independent exploration. Indergaard says: “We consider a shuttle service to Kristiansund to be necessary in order to ensure a good guest experience. That said, this is a valuable alternative to have in mind, particularly in cases where it is challenging to secure an available berth in the Alesund–Molde–Kristiansund–Trondheim corridor.” In addition the wind zone set up following the Viking Sky engine failure and resulting rescue operation in 2019, increases the nautical miles to be sailed between Kristiansund and Molde. The berth at Averoy mostly accommodates offshore vessels. It is ISPS-approved and will soon be for cruise vessels also. A few years ago Fred Olsen Cruise Lines’ Bolette called. At present the port receives 20 to 25 calls a year.  

28/04/2026

Galway gets the go ahead on waterfront development and port

In January 2014 a planning application for the extension of Galway Harbour was lodged with the national planning authority (An Bord Pleanála). After a long road of further information, planning was granted on April 7. Captain Brian Sheridan, harbour master at the Port of Galway, said: This was a monumental day for Galway. It will transform the city and provide a more safe and secure port for ships [cruise and cargo]. It will remove restrictions that currently exist in the tidal basin. There is also a terminal building in the plans.” The timeline is expected to be five years to completion, with construction taking about three years.  Sheridan pointed to The Galway Harbour Act of 1830, which extended the harbour, saying the words still carry through today. It stated: “Whereas vessels of burden cannot with safety or convenience be brought to the said port, and it would be expedient that suitable docks and quays should be constructed, which would be highly beneficial to the inhabitants of Galway”. Galway has always been a liner port with regular calls from Cunard and Holland America Line but the cruise business began in 2010, rising from zero to 33 calls in 2026. In that time the ship size has been increasing, as have the passenger numbers. The largest ship to call to date is Holland America Line’s Nieuw Statendam. “The new port will mean ships can come alongside the quay instead of tendering. In 2028 Caribbean Princess is due to call,” said Sheridan.  At present Galway is a tender port. This year 27 calls are scheduled.

28/04/2026

Tor Shipping tips the scales

Family-owned Tor Shipping is no stranger to hard work, and it is this dedication that has returned the company to pre-coronavirus levels of business. As a Faroese-owned and operated agency based in the Faroe Islands, the company serves as port agent for all types of vessels calling at the islands’ diverse range of ports. Joan Torleivsdottir, owner, says: “We handle about 80 percent of the ship agency business in the Faroes.” As a company of few people, two of whom are owners, the focus is on flexibility and rapid response. She explains: “It is very important for us to answer the customer within a few hours. We are very service-minded.” This approach has built strong loyalty among cruise operators, with the company handling around 60 of the annual 90 cruise calls. Personal service is also a priority: “We come on board the vessels to show our face and ask if they need anything.” Torleivsdottir notes that the Faroe Islands are becoming increasingly popular as a cruise destination, supported by the variety and accessibility of ports across the islands. The region has also seen vessels redirect from destinations such as St Petersburg following the invasion of Ukraine. With deep local knowledge and a strong Faroese foundation, the company is well positioned to accommodate further growth in cruise traffic. “In an industry where services can often appear similar, it is ultimately the people who make the difference. At Tor Shipping, that difference lies in experience, dedication, and a truly personal approach. The service itself may be replicated, but the people behind it cannot,” concludes Torleivsdottir.

28/04/2026

New associate member: Skeljungur

Although formally established in 2021, Skeljungur has almost 100 years of heritage in energy distribution and supply. Today, the company operates across all major ports in Iceland, including Reykjavik, Akureyri, Eskifjordur, Vestmannaeyjar and Isafjordur, and is supported by a team of approximately 65 employees and a nationwide infrastructure.   A key strength of Skeljungur lies in its fully-integrated distribution network. The company operates its own fleet of trucks and one barge in Reykjavik, allowing for a high level of flexibility and reliability in all operations. The barge is capable of delivering up to 800 MT in a single operation, enabling efficient servicing of both scheduled and short-notice deliveries.   In addition to marine fuels, Skeljungur supplies lubricants, chemicals and gasoline, further supporting the operational needs of its customers. The company also provides jet fuel services for cruise vessels, as well as supplying major airports across Iceland. Gasoline can be delivered in drums or pumped directly to onboard.   Sustainability is also a growing focus. In 2025, Skeljungur completed its first biofuel delivery in Reykjavik, supporting the industry’s transition towards lower-emission solutions. As Unnur Elva Arnardottir, managing director of bunkering at Skeljungur and chair of Cruise Iceland, explains: “We combine strong local expertise with full control over our logistics, which allows us to be highly flexible and reliable in our service. We see biofuels and alternative fuels as a key part of the future, and we are ready to support our customers as demand evolves.”   Looking ahead, she says Skeljungur aims to strengthen its position as a reliable and flexible partner to the cruise industry in Iceland: “With a strong operational foundation, extensive local knowledge and a forward-looking approach to alternative fuels, the company is committed to supporting its clients with efficient and dependable marine fuel solutions.”

08/04/2026

Plymouth is primed and ready for more

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.

30/03/2026

Lerwick hosts Cruise Forward

Shetland’s Cruise Forward event in February brought together more than 140 delegates, creating a positive space for discussion across industry partners, local businesses and community groups. “The focus was clear throughout the day on how we respond to a changing cruise market, strengthen what we offer, and ensure the benefits of expedition cruising are felt right across Shetland, including in some of our more remote areas,” explained Melanie Henderson, cruise & marketing manager, Lerwick Port Authority (LPA). “There was palpable energy and enthusiasm in the room across all the sessions, and there is no doubt it has inspired many a conversation about how Shetland will move forwards with leveraging the benefits of cruise across the whole of the islands,” she added. Shetland is a popular cruise destination on northern European itineraries, with over 147 ships booked to call at Lerwick this season, and a further 47 bookings scheduled with the more remote smaller islands in the archipelago. The event was ed by Claire White, with an opening welcome from Highlands and Islands Enterprise area manager, Katrina Wiseman, who set the tone for a collaborative and forward-looking day. Tommy Coutts from Shetland Islands Council introduced the upcoming socio-economic study, outlining how it will help build a clearer picture of cruise tourism’s impact and where future opportunities lie. A strong message here was the importance of input from both industry and communities to help shape meaningful, long-term outcomes. Henderson shared an overview of the current cruise landscape across Shetland and Scotland, reflecting on the sector’s economic value alongside some of the challenges it needs to navigate including capacity, seasonality and community expectations among them. There was a clear emphasis on getting the balance right between growth and what works for Shetland as a place. Hearing directly from cruiseline perspective added real value. Saskia Vrolyk from HX Expeditions spoke about what makes Shetland such a compelling destination, from its authenticity and environment to the strength of local experiences. At the same time, she highlighted where there are opportunities to strengthen and refine what is on offer, as well as providing an overview of what HX looks for in a destination.  Looking ahead, Aneta Meszka, head of operations for Excursions Ltd, focussed on trends and product development reinforcing the growing demand for high-quality, authentic and well-prepared experiences. It was useful to understand where demand is strongest, where opportunities are currently being missed, and how expectations differ across cruise segments. Jens Skrede, managing director of Cruise Europe, brought an international lens, sharing insights from across northern Europe. His thought-provoking perspective on what happens in Norway and how smaller destinations can become ‘must-call’ ports was particularly relevant, with a strong focus on identity, storytelling and developing niche, high-quality experiences. It was equally important to hear some local case studies on what has been very successful in Shetland. Isla Murray of Shetland Rural Experience spoke about the development of agri-tourism and the value of partnership working, while Eileen Thomson, Fair Isle’s cruise coordinator, shared the positive impact cruise has had on the island, particularly in supporting nature-based tourism and getting the whole community involved.   Henderson commented: “Throughout the day, there was a real openness in the discussions, with contributions from across the room helping to shape the conversation. A few key themes came through strongly. Cruise tourism continues to play a significant role in Shetland’s economy, but there is a shared recognition that future success depends on collaboration, readiness and ongoing innovation. “There was also a clear focus on the types of experiences that resonate most with visitors, where gaps currently exist, and how smaller businesses can better access and benefit from the market. “Just as importantly, conversations reflected how visitor expectations are evolving, and what that means for Shetland as a destination. We had very helpful presentations from local agencies offering support from Business Gateway, destination marketing organisation Promote Shetland and from VisitScotland.” Guests were also treated to a FAM trip to experience first-hand crofting life, nature reserves, ancient historical sites, the Shetland Bus movement, fishing heritage and culture, five-star museums, Fair Isle knitwear and jewellery producers and the well-known Shetland Ponies. “Overall, the event highlighted the importance of taking a joined-up, considered approach, one that supports sustainable growth and ensures long-term benefits for our communities and businesses across Shetland,” said Henderson. Following the event, Skrede said: “I have learned so much over the last two days here in Shetland. That Lerwick Harbour is a very well run port comes as no surprise, but the scale of their operations across many sectors is very impressive. The strong focus on sustainable growth in the cruise sector is spot on, and the conference yesterday confirmed the success of LPA’s cruise strategy.   “The visit has also opened my eyes to the comprehensive amount of calls into the smaller destinations on Shetland such as Unst, Scalloway and Fair Isle from the expedition ships.”

30/03/2026

Flam pier upgrade and OPS supply are on track for delivery

The Port of Flam is reinforcing its position as a premier destination in the Norwegian fjords. At an extended length of 185m, the quay will be completed and operational by summer 2026, enhancing capacity and operational flexibility for visiting vessels.   The 75m extension started on October 16 2025 and will be completed by the end of April 2026. The company in charge of the project is Repstad from Norway. This longer pier will be equipped with new fenders which will replace the existing truck tyres. “The extra length of the pier may allow some of the bigger ships to also make use of gangways located towards the bow and so give more options to guests/crew for faster logistics,” explains Antonio Castellano, port operations manager Flam Port. This infrastructure upgrade will enable cruiseships to shut down engines and connect to clean electricity while berthed from the beginning of summer 2027, by which time the onshore power supply (OPS) will be up and running. Built by PSW Power & Automation, the initial capacity will be 10 MW, increasing to16 MW by 2029. The entire project, which is fully-owned by Aurland Hamnvesen, has received NOK 100 million (€9.1 million) funding from the Norwegian government. The OPS is a mobile unit with three connection points but only one can be used at a time. The supply will come from the local hydroelectric power station.    There were 114 calls in 2025, 99 are scheduled for 2026 and 122 and growing for 2027. “In terms of OPS connections, the forecast for the first year (2027) is for 75% of ship calls to be connected. The aim is to reach 90/95 percent pretty quickly,” says Castellano.

30/03/2026

Trondheim secures grid connection for its main cruise quay

Trondheim Port Authority has secured a grid connection for its main cruise quay. By 2028, it will be able to supply 4.9MW with an upgrade to 12MW by 2029. There is a possibility that capacity may be increased to 8MW by 2028 in summertime, given an exemption from the grid provider. “We can therefore go forward with securing finances in combination with the ENOVA funds,” explains Maria Kuhnl Undheim, marketing manager cruise at the port. “The installation will go hand in hand with an extension to the main cruise quay, from 96m to 150m.” A detailed plan for the extension is being worked on and installation is estimated to be complete by January 1 2028. The port has acquired ramps to add to its new 10m and 12m gangways. It will also determine whether the Yokohama fendering at the main quay should be standard equipment throughout In addition, the port is planning to enhance the welcome facilities for cruiseships arriving at Ila quay 30, which is situated in the industrial port, and is available year-round should there be simultaneous cruise calls. When it comes to the destination, Visit Trondheim, together with the municipality, has started the process of becoming an accredited sustainable travel destination. This work includes a plan to avoid overcrowding and handle all kinds of tourism responsibly as a united destination leadership. Trondheim Port welcomes this initiative and follows for now a self-opposed maximum of 9,000 passengers a day rule.

30/03/2026

Hardangerfjord is on track for OPS in Eidfjord and extended tendering in Ulvik

The quay extension project at the Port of Eidfjord is nearing completion. The quay is being extended by 40m, bringing its total length to 160m. The project is scheduled for completion by April 30, 2026. “The purpose of the extension is to enable all ships calling at Eidfjord access to shore power,” says Inge Tangeras, ceo Visit Eidfjord/Cruise Destination Hardangerfjord. In addition, the port is currently constructing the platform between the quay and the shoreside, where the shore power facility will be installed. Installation of shore power is planned to begin at the end of this year, with the system expected to be fully operational for the 2027 cruise season.   At the Port of Ulvik, a new concrete floating dock has been installed, enabling the port to accommodate a greater number of tenders for larger vessels. This long-awaited investment was completed in September last year. New activities are also being introduced for passengers visiting Eidfjord, including a farm visit and cider tasting at Eidfjord Hotel, both within easy walking distance of the port. Further afield guided mountain hikes are on offer about 50km away and live music can be arranged on the quayside to create a memorable arrival experience.