News

30/10/2025

Le Havre, the first port on the Atlantic coast to connect a cruise ship to shore power!

Successful first shore power connection for a cruise ship On Thursday, October 30, the call of MSC Poesia, operated by MSC Cruises at Le Havre’s Pierre Callet quay, marked a symbolic moment: the very first shore power connection for a cruise ship along the Atlantic coast! This major step in the port’s energy transition was made possible thanks to the joint investment of HAROPA PORT, the French State, and the Normandy Region. The electrification of cruise berths will enable zero-emission calls, combining commercial attractiveness, environmental performance and passenger comfort. With this system, ships can now switch off their engines while alongside and connect directly to the local power grid, significantly reducing CO₂ and fine particle emissions in the port area. “This first connection embodies the vision of a modern, attractive, and sustainable port. Le Havre is investing for cruise compagnies, for their passengers, and for a more sustainability cruise”, said Alexandra Ruiz, Managing Director of GIP Le Havre Croisières. GIP Le Havre Croisières commends the technical success achieved by the port’s teams and highlights the strategic importance of this innovation for cruise lines partners and the territory. Further connection will now be carried out with all cruise compagnies to ensure, once the system is fully operational, a smooth, reliable process for every ship calling at Le Havre. This first shore power connection is fully aligned with the global development project of Le Havre’s future cruise terminals, led by GIP Le Havre Croisières a concrete step toward modern, sustainable and city-connected infrastructures, designed to provide an exemplary and responsible port experience for cruise lines and their guests.

29/10/2025

Port of Aberdeen celebrates another record-breaking cruise season

Aberdeen’s rise as one of the UK’s leading cruise destinations gathered pace in 2025, with 43,000 guests welcomed – an impressive 79% increase on 2024. The growth was driven by a record 65 cruise calls, up more than 50% year on year, alongside a trend of larger vessels berthing at the port’s new £420 million Aberdeen South Harbour. The 2025 cruise season was brought to a close on Saturday 20 September with the arrival of Viking Vela at South Harbour. Highlights included maiden calls from Viking Cruises, the arrival of The Ritz-Carlton’s Ilma, the return of the magnificent 292m-long Costa Favolosa, and hosting Cruise Britain’s prestigious Annual Summer Event in June. Guests were greeted throughout the season by Alba Bagpipes on the quayside who joined VisitAberdeenshire’s ‘Welcome to Aberdeenshire’ volunteers to give a warm, world-class welcome. The volunteers play a significant role in welcoming and assisting guests in discovering what Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire has to offer, everything from exploring the city by open-top bus to excursions out to Deeside, Dunnottar and the Garioch. The CruiseAberdeenshire partnership continued its efforts to attract new cruise lines and promote the region on the global stage, exhibiting at Seatrade Cruise Global in Miami and Seatrade Europe in Hamburg. Chris Foy, CEO, VisitAberdeenshire, said: “The growth in cruise numbers 2025 has been celebrated by tourism, hospitality and retail businesses across the city and shire. The first impression of our destination remains as important as ever, so with the support of Peterson Energy Logistics, we expanded the quayside volunteer programme this year to offer even more warm welcomes and visitor information to passengers from all over the world. Looking ahead, the VisitAberdeenshire team are advising more businesses on how to get ‘cruise-ready’ with an ambition to spread the benefits further into Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire.” Bob Sanguinetti DL, CEO, Port of Aberdeen, continued: “We’re proud to provide cruise operators with a seamless, high-quality experience backed by first-class infrastructure and exceptional customer service. We’re excited to welcome even more visitors to discover everything Aberdeen and the wider region has to offer.”

27/10/2025

Community engagement: Tallinn turns ideas into action

During the Cruise Europe Conference in Copenhagen this May, Maria Tauschke of TUI Cruises took part in a panel discussion about community engagement, sharing inspiring examples, such as providing learning opportunities and lectures in local schools and donating surplus food and other items to local communities. She also encouraged ports and destinations to take initiative and propose community engagement projects together with cruiselines. At some point after the conference, the Estonian Food Bank - a non-profit organisation dedicated to reducing food waste and supporting vulnerable communities across Estonia - reached out to Sirle Arro, head of marketing & communication department at the Port of Tallinn, and asked whether it might be possible to cooperate with cruiselines. Remembering Tauschke’s words, Arro got in touch and proposed a pilot project for donating surplus food from TUI Cruises’ vessels: food that is still perfectly safe for consumption but would otherwise go to waste. “It seemed like an ideal opportunity to connect the cruise industry with the local community in a way that delivers both environmental and social impact,” says Arro. With welcome input from Victoria Muller, sustainability manager of TUI Cruises, four successful deliveries were coordinated in Tallinn this season, resulting in 207.1kgs of baked goods being donated to those in need. Piet Boerefijn, founder and ceo of the Estonian Food Bank, highlights what such donations mean for the community: “The Food Bank gladly accepts every kilogram of food donated to us. We see that socially responsible behaviour is part of the cruise operators’ ethos - in fact, such cooperation with local food banks exists in many ports where cruiseships call. Now, through our partnership with TUI Cruises and Port of Tallinn, this surplus food will be redirected to those who need it most. We believe this cooperation will continue in the coming seasons, allowing us to jointly combat food waste.” Arro shares some top tips with fellow ports and destinations which may want to do set up something along the same lines: “First of all be patient. There are several practical and regulatory aspects to consider.” Food safety and regulations: the kind of food that can be donated must be clarified. This must be discussed with both the cruiseline and the local Agriculture and Food Administration. In Tallinn’s case, it was identified that the cruiseline could donate ready-made food that had been prepared but not served yet. Documentation and customs: certificates and declarations may be required by customs and tax authorities. For example, after contacting the Customs and Tax Board, the port learned that written documentation was needed to obtain tax exemption for food donations, which required a formal agreement between the cruiseline and the food bank, along with relevant certificates. Logistics: once the paperwork is ready, coordination on the ground is crucial. Packaging, transportation (thermal or regular boxes), and delivery procedures all need to be agreed, as well details about the vehicle and person entering the port area provided. Crew members at the ship’s entrance might not always be informed about such arrangements initially so be prepared. Arro says: “We are very grateful to TUI Cruises for their patience, openness, and willingness to go through all these steps with us and the Estonian Food Bank. It’s been a valuable learning process, and we’re thrilled that TUI is ready to expand the cooperation next season: both in terms of food types donated and number of ship calls involved. “We also hope other cruiselines will join this meaningful initiative. In fact, we have already received a positive response from MSC Cruises: a great sign that community engagement is truly gaining momentum across the industry.” The Estonian Food Bank was established in March 2010 to alleviate poverty and fight food waste in Estonian society. The network today consists of 16 food banks operating in regional centres across the country. In 2024, the Food Bank distributed 4.4 million kilograms of rescued and donated food: a six percent increase compared to the previous year.

27/10/2025

Greenock inspires the next generation

To mark the final cruise call of the 2025 season, Greenock Cruise Port (GCP), operated by Global Ports Holding, welcomed pupils from Port Glasgow High School and Inverclyde Academy aboard Regal Princess. A total of 32 students, currently studying languages, travel, and tourism, were invited to step on board for an immersive educational experience. The visit included a guided tour of the vessel, lunch on board, and a lively Q&A session with the ship’s officers and crew, which gave the students a rare glimpse into the inner workings of a modern cruiseship and the varied career paths the industry has to offer. “The day sparked huge enthusiasm among the pupils, with several immediately asking how they could apply to work onboard,” comments Allison McGuire, head of operations GCP. “It was such a success that we will develop a schools programme over the winter months in time for the next season. “I’m planning to meet with the Inverclyde Schools liaison officer to see who we can capture and what opportunities we have to take this forward. I’ll also reach out to more cruiselines over the next few months to see if we can get more onboard.” The event underscored Greenock Cruise Port’s ongoing commitment to fostering strong relationships between the cruise industry and the local community. “Welcoming these local pupils on board was more than just a ship visit, it was an opportunity to open their eyes to a world of possibilities. Many of these young people are beginning to think about their future career paths, and experiences like this can truly broaden their horizons,” says McGuire. “It’s easy to forget that the cruise industry isn’t only about life at sea; it brings together countless professions, from hospitality and engineering to logistics, marketing, and language skills. By giving students, the chance to speak directly with crew members and see behind the scenes, we’re helping them understand how their studies today can translate into exciting and fulfilling careers tomorrow. “We’re proud to partner with local schools to build these connections. Initiatives like this strengthen our ties with the Inverclyde community while inspiring the next generation to see that global opportunities can start right here on their doorstep.”

27/10/2025

OPS will be operational in Narvik in late 2026

The Port of Narvik has announced the upcoming launch of its on shore power (OPS) facility, set to be operational in the third quarter of 2026. This milestone marks a significant step toward a greener and more sustainable future for maritime operations in Northern Norway. “This is a transformative initiative for both the port and the city,” says Borge Edvardsen Klingan, port director at Narvik Havn. “By offering shore power, we are not only improving air quality and reducing noise but also supporting the global shift toward low-emission maritime transport.” The new facility will enable cruiseships to connect to the local power grid while docked, reducing emissions and noise pollution in the harbour area. Developed in collaboration with Plug Narvik and with a total investment of NOK 93 million (€8 million), of which NOK 10.7 million is funding from Enova, the project reflects Narvik’s commitment to environmental innovation and regional cooperation. The facility will include both high-voltage and low-voltage systems, allowing it to serve a wide range of cruise vessels. It is designed to supply one ship at a time and is expected to deliver over 2 million kWh annually, potentially reducing CO₂ emissions by approximately 0.8 kg per kWh delivered. Narvik’s shore power initiative is part of a broader strategy to position the port as a hub for sustainable energy and transport. “We are building the infrastructure necessary for a cleaner future,” says Maria Bos, ceo of Plug Nord. “Narvik’s leadership in this area sets a strong example for other ports in Norway and beyond.” The shore power facility is expected to be fully operational by late 2026, aligning with Norway’s national goals to reduce emissions from domestic shipping by 50% by 2030.

27/10/2025

Kristansand plans to extend berth to improve its OPS offering

Earlier this year Kristiansand was chosen as the location to test and commission the on shore power system (OPS) installed on board NYK Cruises’ Asuka III. After the tests were completed, the ship remained connected to shore power for 11 hours until departure. Repeated on/off cycles took place to ensure all the components were functioning correctly.   Fredrik Auestad, cruise operations manager at the port, said: “It’s important to note that the innovation here lies, not in Kristiansand’s infrastructure, but in the ship's new onboard system.” Kristiansand’s shore power facility for cruiseships is located at Berth No 10, which is the primary berth for cruise calls. The facility was delivered by PowerCon and has a capacity of 16 MVA. It has been in operation since 2018 and sources 100% of its energy from hydropower. Up until now a number of vessels have experienced difficulties utilising the port’s IKS's OPS due to the current berth length but that’s about to change. To better accommodate the growing cruise industry and ensure all visiting cruise vessels can benefit from shore power, the port is planning to extend the 150m-long berth by a minimum of 15m. Construction is expected to start around this time next year. Auestad says: “We are currently reviewing various design options, and we refer to the extension as part of our shore power adaptation project.”

27/10/2025

Eidfjord waterfront development is partly completed

A project to make the Eidfjord waterfront more attractive and accessible is underway. The plan is to improve on the current layout which connects the Sjobua (Sea House) and the beaches with the town centre. In addition, the area around Sjobua will be enhanced, including seating steps by the beaches and a walkway around the entire building. Phase 1 was completed in May. This included the expansion of the quay and promenade, with an emphasis on ensuring everyone can walk along the promenade with easy access to and from the town square, Sjobua, and the existing path along the main road, without needing to take long detours. Phase 2 envisages a larger gathering space/town square in the centre of Eidfjord. This could be used for selling food and various goods, as well as for different events. A design has yet to be determined. This year, there were 87 calls, bringing 175,229 passengers. Ships range in size from 125,572 AIDAprima to 47,842gt Viking Sky to 28,890gt Europa from Hapag-Lloyd Cruises.

27/10/2025

New member: Grundarfjordur

Grundarfjordur is a transit port on the rise. In 2019 it received 52 calls and 17,681 passengers, increasing to 75 and 69,500 respectively this year. There are two berths: Nordurgardur 1 (135m long with 9.5m depth at lowest tide) and 2 (220m long with 8m depth at the first 100m and then 6.5m at the lowest tide). The width of the pier is 40m. The maximum ship length permitted at berth one is 240m and, at berth 2, 170m. There is the possibility to have two ships at anchor at the same time. It is 0.5nm from here to the Midgardur tender dock which is 30m long and 4m wide and can accommodate four tenders. The two berths are 600m and 450m from the city centre respectively. Tourist information is provided at the harbour by port employees. There is a toilet 50m from the tender pier and there is free wifi at the port. Plans are in place to build a new tender dock next to the existing one. A link is available to the port calendar. Shore excursions, such as the most popular tour of the Snaefellsnaes Peninsula taking in the glacier, birdlife and points of historical and cultural interest, are operated by third party companies and can be prebooked and on location. Kayak tours can be prebooked but also booked on location, as can a shuttle to the Kirkjufell waterfall and Bjarnarhofn Shark Museum. Private tours are available on demand.

27/10/2025

New associate member: E-L-S

E-L-S (European Land Excursion Services), based in Hamburg & Warnemunde, specialises in designing, organising and operating shore excursions and other land activities for German and international cruise calls in all German ports. More than 30 years of experience in designing and operating land arrangements for the cruise industry in three countries - South Africa, Namibia and Germany - has lead to E-L-S “becoming one of the leading incoming tour operators & destination management companies in Germany specialising in this market with a network of contacts on an international level,” says managing director/owner Bianca Els. “The wealth of experience and the unflagging passion of the E-L-S team for the demanding cruise industry, lead to an extensive repertoire with a diverse range of products. In addition, E-L-S spear-head innovative tour ideas and are known for their committed and unparalleled level of service, always exceeding the cruiselines’ growing expectations and continuously enriching guests’ land activity experience,” she adds. E-L-S prides itself on “consistently designing and providing fresh, rare, innovative and unique tours to share the rich history and the exciting presence that Germany offers and to bring the destination alive.”

27/10/2025

Cruise Cast episode 8 on EES is a must listen

Cruise Lines International Association's executive director for Europe, Nikos Mertzanidis, talks to Sonia Limbrick about the introduction of the Entry & Exit System (EES) and what this means for ports in Europe. The importance of collaboration between ports and the consequences for the cruise operations are vital. Of the first week, Mertzanidis says: “So far so good. Not because everything works perfectly but because people are very well co-ordinated and ready to react in case there are bottlenecks, in case systems don’t work. We are doing a much better job than the airports at this moment.” Limbrick says: “This is a very serious subject that we are talking about. It can have a massive impact on what we like to have, which is a seamless operation that we are proud of in our port areas. So it is key that we get this right.”   Tune in on the following link: https://tinyurl.com/TheCruiseCastEpisode8

24/10/2025

Rouen: The New Culinary Capital Making Waves with Cruise Travelers

Ready to elevate your next cruise stop? Discover why Rouen is fast becoming the must-visit destination for culinary adventure, cultural discovery, and unforgettable guest experiences. From dazzling food festivals that fill its cobbled streets with flavor and energy to a legacy of world-class art, riverfront beauty, and bold innovation, Rouen has taken center stage as France’s newest hotspot for gourmet exploration. This is the city topping every travel editor’s list, the perfect blend of authenticity, creativity, and global flair your guests will remember long after they sail. Cruise Lines: The Opportunity You Can’t Miss Rouen offers a rare mix of major-event atmosphere, international renown, and UNESCO-recognized gastronomic excellence that sets it apart on any itinerary. Its prime position just a short distance from Paris, paired with a dynamic calendar and robust cruise infrastructure, makes Rouen the new essential stop for both river and ocean cruise routes seeking fresh, high-impact destinations. Recent highlights include the electrifying Rouen à Table! festival and the iconic Fête du Ventre et de la Gastronomie Normande, where the city’s historic core transformed into an open-air stage for fine food and celebration. Luxury river ships such as Scenic Gem, AmaDante, Viking Fjorgyn, Bizet, and Joie de Vivre timed their calls to coincide with the festivities and bringing passengers directly into the heart of the culinary action. Recognition that Resonates Worldwide The global spotlight is on Rouen. Broadcast coverage, major travel media features, and a surge in social engagement have all showcased the city’s vibrant creativity and warm hospitality. As a proud member of the UNESCO Creative Cities of Gastronomy, Rouen now ranks among the world’s elite destinations for innovation in cuisine and culture. Unforgettable Experiences for Passengers From hands-on tastings with celebrated chefs like Christophe Mauduit to encounters with master artisans and Norman producers, visiting guests experience authentic local flavor and sustainable culinary excellence. Cruise guests regularly praise Rouen for its vibrant culinary scene and memorable atmosphere. As seen in Cruise Critic reviews: “Dined (again!) at La Couronne, an establishment since 1345, where Julia Child is said to have first encountered French cuisine. Always a treat!” Another traveler notes, “Nice to stay 2 days, gave the opportunity to go to a local restaurant and explore Rouen ourselves.” Guests also share, “Found lots of great stuff in the village. Food, wine, people, all great.” A Year-Round Destination Beyond gastronomy, Rouen’s calendar is alive with art, music, history, and nature events that animate its waterfront and historic quarters all year long. Cruise guests can uncover Rouen through tailor-made shore excursions, guided walks, and immersive cultural encounters that highlight the city’s unique mix of tradition and innovation. Rouen welcomes cruise travelers with a blend of rich gastronomy and cultural discovery. Every visit offers unique experiences that leave guests eager to return.

22/10/2025

Le Havre hosts a sporting call!

When sport brings sea and land together in Le Havre! A friendly match between the crew of the Emerald Princess and AS La Selle La Forge On Sunday, October 12, Le Havre Croisières welcomed the Emerald Princess, part of the Princess Cruises fleet, during her call in Le Havre. Among the 2,888 passengers and 1,126 crew members, nine sailors left the ship’s deck for the grassy field in Épouville for a friendly football match against the local team, AS La Selle La Forge. Organized by a player from the club – passionate about football, a cruise ship aficionado, and a professional in the maritime industry for BLB Cruises & Shorex – this second edition follows the success of the first meeting held during the Renaissance call of CFC Cruises on April 7, 2024. Through Le Havre Croisières and in partnership with the Épouville Town Hall, the local sports complex hosted this unique encounter, where sea meets land and sport becomes a vehicle for sharing and connection. On the field, playing 9-a-side, the AS La Selle La Forge players challenged crew members from various roles on board – bridge officers, cooks, technicians, maintenance, and casino staff. “There was no difference; everyone was on the same level,” said one player. “The Emerald Princess crew were thrilled – some hadn’t been ashore for several weeks.” Before the match, the sailors invited the AS players to tour the ship and share a lunch on board, offering a privileged glimpse into their daily life at sea. After the match, the AS La Selle la Forge payers presented their opponents with a basket filled with Norman specialties, while Le Havre Croisières gave the sailors a few keepsakes to remember their stop in Le Havre. “The atmosphere was extraordinary, full of fair play and good spirits – a wonderful symbol of the link between our worlds.” said the event coordinator. Under a generous autumn sun, smiles replaced the score. This friendly match perfectly illustrates the spirit of openness and conviviality that characterizes Le Havre’s calls: human, lively, and where every encounter becomes a unique experience, emphasizes Le Havre Croisières.

20/10/2025

Strong 2025 Cruise Season Highlights Foyle Port’s Rising International Profile

Foyle Port has wrapped up a highly successful 2025 cruise season, welcoming 19 cruise ship calls – a 46% increase on the previous year, and attracting a diverse range of international visitors to the North West region. This year’s cruise calendar featured ships from 11 different cruise lines, including world-leading luxury operators Regent Seven Seas, Azamara, Silversea, Hapag-Lloyd Cruises, and Phoenix Reisen, alongside renowned expedition lines such as Mystic Cruises, AE Expeditions, Exploris Expeditions and Noble Caledonia. The season included five inaugural calls and a first-ever visit from luxury line Windstar Cruises, whose ship Star Legend made its debut at the port. In total, the 2025 season brought 6,930 passengers and crew to the region. Of the 3,940 passengers, nearly half were from the United States (48%), followed by Germany (20%), the United Kingdom (13%), France (5%) and Canada (4%). Depending on ship size and tidal conditions, vessels were welcomed either at the tender port in Greencastle or the commercial port at Lisahally. Bill McCann, Harbour Master and Operations Director at Foyle Port commented, “We are delighted with how the season has gone this year. The increase in calls and the range of visitors highlight Foyle Port’s growing reputation as a key gateway for cruise tourism in the North West. We look forward to building on this success and continuing to showcase our region’s unique location as the gateway to the historic city of Derry-Londonderry and two of the world’s most iconic coastal routes, the Wild Atlantic Way and the Causeway Coast.” The success of the 2025 season underscores Foyle Port’s commitment to strengthening the region’s tourism profile and supporting local economic growth through the cruise industry. As part of its long-term strategy to grow this sector, Foyle Port actively engages with the global cruise market, attending major trade shows in Miami and Hamburg to meet with both existing and prospective cruise clients. The Port is also an active member of Cruise Ireland, a marketing organisation dedicated to promoting the island on a global scale. In September, Cruise Ireland and Cruise Britain jointly won “Destination of the Year” at the prestigious Seatrade Cruise Awards. Further cementing its reputation, the Port hosted a high-profile familiarisation trip in September for 12 cruise line representatives from the US and Europe. The visit included tours of the commercial port at Lisahally and the tender port at Greencastle, along with a tailored itinerary designed to showcase the destination and the range of tourism products available to visiting cruise guests. The trip formed part of a wider tour of Ireland hosted by Cruise Ireland in partnership with Excursions Ireland. Niamh McCarthy, Managing Director of Excursions Ireland said, “Working with Foyle Port and the wider North West region has been an absolute pleasure and this past season was no different. This progressive, forward-thinking port is not only strategically located on the stunning North West coast, but also acts as a gateway to a region steeped in incredible history, culture, and natural beauty.” She added, “The recent showcase proved to be a tremendous success. Visiting cruise line executives were thoroughly impressed with Derry and the surrounding areas — so much so that several have already committed to increasing cruise calls to the region in upcoming seasons. It was especially rewarding for our valued clients to explore this area in depth, as it’s not always first to paper when planning itineraries. That perception is changing. This region deserves more footfall, and it's clear they are both eager and ready to welcome more visitors.”

13/10/2025

Mein Schiff 7: Maiden Call at Le Havre and first visit on the French Atlantic coast!

Mein Schiff 7, commissioned in June 2024, made her maiden call at Le Havre on Saturday October 11, 2025, a particularly notable visit as it also marked the vessel’s first visit on the French Atlantic coast. The 316-meter vessel, carrying 3,080 passengers and 1,007 crew members, underscores Le Havre’s growing role as a leading cruise hub on France’s Atlantic coast. The traditional plaque exchange ceremony, held in the presence of Captain Jens Troier and local authorities including the city of Le Havre, Le Havre Croisières (cruise terminal operator), the Seamen’s Club and the tour-operator, officially marked this inaugural call and shone a spotlight on cruise activity in Le Havre. “We are thrilled to welcome Mein Schiff 7 – TUI Cruises - for her first visit to Le Havre,” said Alexandra Ruiz, General Manager of Le Havre Croisières (cruise terminal operator). “This milestone reflects our commitment to modernizing our infrastructure and enhancing the cruise experience on the French Atlantic coast. We look forward to welcoming the vessel again in our brand-new facilities in 2026.” During her next visit in May 2026, Mein Schiff 7 will be welcomed in Le Havre’s newly completed facilities. The ongoing cruise terminal construction project, led by Le Havre Croisières plans to deliver terminals T2 and T3 by December 2025, with commissioning scheduled for January 2026. These modern facilities will significantly improve passenger comfort and operational efficiency, while enabling cruise ships calling at the port to connect to shore power, a sustainable project undertaken by HAROPA PORT. Currently in the testing phase at Pierre Callet quay (terminal 2), the first to be equipped, the shore power system is expected to be operational by the end of 2025. It will then be extended to Roger Meunier and Joannes Couvert quays (terminals 1 and 3) in the coming months, with full operation across all quays anticipated between mid and late 2026. With these investments, Le Havre is reinforcing its position as a gateway to Normandy and Paris, offering cruise lines state-of-the-art infrastructure and a strong commitment to sustainable cruise operations.

02/10/2025

Isle of Man welcomes over 26,000 cruise passengers in record-breaking 2025 season

This year has marked a record-breaking year for the number of cruise passengers visiting the shores of the Isle of Man. Visit Isle of Man is celebrating an extraordinary cruise season, delivering increased visitor numbers and economic impact. The season welcomed 47 cruise ship calls, including nine maiden voyages, bringing 26,357 passengers to the Island, an increase of 21% on last year’s cruise passenger numbers, with 43 cruise ships welcomed to the Isle of Man in 2024. The record-breaking season generated an estimated £2.3m in economic contributions, through port and passenger spend across the Island's tourism, hospitality and retail sectors. Passengers embraced the full breadth of the Island's offering, from heritage sites, guided walking and golfing tours, travelling on the Manx Electric and Steam Railways to newly opened attractions such as Ballacosnahan Farm providing unique farm experiences. The authentic Manx experience extended to onboard dining, with local business Robinsons supplying Compagnie du Ponant's Le Bellot with lobster sustainably caught by local fishermen for passengers to enjoy during their voyage. Deborah Heather, CEO of Visit Isle of Man, commented: ‘We are delighted with this record-breaking season, which demonstrates the growing international recognition of the Isle of Man as a cruise destination. This success reflects the exceptional collaboration between government departments, contractors, volunteers, and local stakeholders and has generated significant benefits across the Island.’ Sarah Maltby MHK, Political Member with responsibility for Tourism, Motorsport and Heritage, added: ‘We’re delighted with this exceptional season. Cruise visits not only deliver valuable economic benefits for local businesses but also provides a platform to showcase the Isle of Man’s unique offering to a global audience. Cruise visitors become ambassadors for our Island, sharing their experiences and encouraging future visits. This strong growth in cruise tourism reinforces our position as an essential destination within cruise itineraries across the British Isles.’ This impressive growth coincides with the British Isles cruise region receiving international acclaim, as Cruise Britain and Cruise Ireland were jointly named Destination of the Year at the esteemed 2025 Seatrade Cruise Awards. This award highlights the outstanding cruise experiences offered throughout the British Isles. This year, the Visit Isle of Man team personally welcomed every maiden voyage to the Island, greeting captains and crews, exchanging plaques, and extending a warm welcome to passengers with the support of our dedicated grounds team and cruise volunteers. These figures do not include crew members, many of whom also disembark and contribute to the local economy through their onshore spending. Visit Isle of Man remains committed to working alongside cruise industry partners to build upon this record-breaking success, securing the Isle of Man's position as a must-visit destination for future seasons. They are also seeking cruise volunteers for the 2026 season, to help provide a warm Manx welcome to arriving cruise passengers. For anyone interested in becoming a cruise volunteer, please email cruise@gov.im for further information.

26/09/2025

TUI Cruises, Port of Tallinn and Estonian Food Bank join forces to reduce food waste and support local communities

Surplus food from TUI Cruises ships calling at the Tallinn Old City Harbour will now reach people in need thanks to a new collaboration between cruise operator TUI Cruises, Port of Tallinn, and the Estonian Food Bank. The initiative helps fight food waste while supporting vulnerable groups within the local community. Victoria Müller, Sustainability Manager at TUI Cruises, underlined the importance of the pilot project: “Our new collaboration with the Food Bank in the Port of Tallinn reflects our firm commitment to both social equity and environmental responsibility. We actively reduce food waste on our vessels through careful planning and portioning; however occasional surplus can occur. By donating surplus food, we not only help reduce avoidable waste but also support those in need within the local community. It’s a great example of effective cooperation and shared values between all parties. And we greatly appreciate the pragmatic and solution-oriented approach of our partners – definitely a blueprint for other cruise ports.” Cruise ships inevitably generate food surplus, but instead of going to waste, this food will now be redistributed by the Estonian Food Bank. The cruise ship Mein Schiff 7 donated food in Tallinn during her four calls in 2025. Piet Boerefijn, Founder and CEO of the Estonian Food Bank, highlighted the significance: “The Food Bank gladly accepts every kilogram of food donated to us. We see that socially responsible behavior is part of the cruise operators’ ethos – in fact, such cooperation with local food banks exists in many ports where cruise ships call. Now, through our partnership with TUI Cruises and Port of Tallinn, this surplus food will be redirected to those who need it most. We believe this cooperation will continue in the coming seasons, allowing us to jointly combat food waste.” Sirle Arro, Head of Marketing and Communications at the Port of Tallinn, emphasized the broader impact: “In recent years, many cruise lines have highlighted that engaging with local communities is not just an act of goodwill – it is essential for sustainable operations and for creating mutual benefit in the places where ships call. Port of Tallinn warmly welcomes the valuable initiative by TUI Cruises to donate surplus food to those in need. Together, we can promote sustainable consumption and ensure that food reaches the people who need it most.” The Estonian Food Bank was established in March 2010 to alleviate poverty and fight food waste in Estonian society. The network today consists of 16 food banks operating in regional centers across the country. In 2024, the Food Bank distributed 4.4 million kilograms of rescued and donated food – a 6% increase compared to the previous year.

21/09/2025

CE chair joins cruiseline heads on state of the industry panel

Hamburg not only pushed out all the stops to host Seatrade Europe this September but is also a major port in terms of the German market. More than three million Germans now take cruises, with many ports benefiting from more ships being based in the region year-round. The trend for year-round cruising, whether in the region, or as far afield as the Caribbean, is on the rise as Felix Eichhorn, president AIDA Cruises, explained: “Out of 11 ships, four are sailing year-round. There are many more ships in Northern Europe now than in the Mediterranean [compared to 10 years ago].” But he was keen to point out that: “Our challenge is to make sure we balance ships in ports”. Simone Maraschi, chair Cruise Europe and managing director Cruise Gate Hamburg, said: “Almost all our ports are working year-round. Winter cruising is no longer a niche.” Community engagement has become a hot topic recently and was also addressed by the panel. Wybcke Meier, ceo TUI Cruises, which is also building the German market exponentially, said: “We need the ports to tell the local communities what is the local contribution. We want them to say yes, we want the ships,” but she added: “Too big ships should not call too small ports.” Maraschi said: “I think the level of transparency is crucial to building trust. The majority of our members are actively working with local stakeholders, not just on sustainability but guest value and experiences. Communities want to see now how each call contributes socially, environmentally and sustainably. Dedicated staff in cruiselines working on community engagement is new and good.There is still a long way to go to reach everyone in the industry.” With the theme of this year’s conference being Future Forward, it is clear that everyone working together, from the stevedores to the cruiselines, is the answer to the industry’s expansion. This it can only do with the full understanding and acceptance of the destinations visited. One standout comment from Eichhorn was that one week on a new ship compares to a four-hour flight. AIDA Cruises later confirmed:"A week's vacation from Hamburg to Norway on a modern ship like AIDANova, causes emissions of around 300kgs of CO₂ per person. This corresponds approximately to a one-way flight from Hamburg to a European city such as Palma de Mallorca or Lisbon, depending on the airline and its capacity [ie a flight time of three to four hours.” Another topic that came up is that of funding. Meier said: “We need to make sure the funds we are paying are used to build infrastructure [for OPS, alternative fuels etc].” With Maraschi adding: “The ports are heavily investing in OPS but these costs cannot be funded by ports alone.”

21/09/2025

Alternative fuels and OPS outlined in keynote

In his keynote speech at Seatrade Europe, president and ceo Cruise Lines International Association, Bud Darr said that the industry’s 2050 target for net-zero emissions stands irrespective of regulations. He talked about the emergence of alternative fuels, the delivery of the first tri-fuel ship this year and that “fossil LNG is a bridge not a destination, and that methanol is promising but is also fossil-based”. Green methanol, bio-LNG and synthetic methane are the most promising but, as yet, are in short supply. He added: “Hydrogen may be good for short durations and maybe for onshore power supply. Nuclear may be a good source of renewable power onshore. Ammonia, I don’t see it.” He put some numbers on the number of ships being OPS-ready in 2018 at 55 (25 percent of the fleet) rising to 165 (58 percent) this year and 273 (85 percent) in 2036. He also pointed out that the total European economic impact of the industry is €55 billion.

21/09/2025

Association collaboration focuses on community engagement

The Strategic Alliance of European Cruise Ports Associations came together for the panel session - European port & destination associations: community engagement in port cities - at which they presented the main findings of a joint survey of more than 140 member ports. This seeks to better understand the challenges posed by increasing tourism pressures on infrastructure, the environment and local communities across Europe. The objective was to gather insights from member ports and destinations, identify best practices, and advocate for policies that support both the tourism sector and community well-being. Simone Maraschi, chair Cruise Europe, said: “The most striking result is that cruise tourism is less than 10 percent of total tourism in a destination but still we see a lot of finger pointing acting negatively. I think this survey is very significant to put a context behind the volumes. Also that the majority of our members actively engage with numbers and cruiselines to enhance, adapt and bring more value for cruise guests.” Whilst Kay Greenway, director Cruise Britain, said: “It is about keeping a sense of perspective. About 97 percent of the communities within 140 port cities are feeling positive about cruise. It is easy to use cruise as a poster child. For the first time we have some data on that.” Speaking as director of Cruise Baltic, Klaus Bondam added: “I think it is important that the topic of cruise tourism is part of the tourism debate. In Copenhagen cruise is less than 10 percent but it still takes up a lot of space.” He pointed out that cruise tourists can be controlled much more easily than those on land: “Cruise is able to separate and disperse tourism, for example to smaller ports.” Monica Berstad, managing director Cruise Norway, added: “These facts will help us to show that cruise is not a threat, it is an opportunity. The message needs to go out that cruise brings value to the community”. Whilst Theodora Riga, president MedCruise, stressed that: “Community engagement is the most important thing. Socio economic studies are really, really important.” To this end, MedCruise announced that during 2026 all member ports will collect data in this respect. Maraschi called for a shift in the dialogue away from responding to negative complaints to preparing a destination prior to ships arriving for what cruise can bring. He stated the example of Cruise Gate Hamburg which began talking to the local community and politicians 20 years ahead of the arrival of HafenCity. “We have always had a focus on sharing and telling the community what we are doing.” In this way, it has received great support on the recent opening. Greenway added that bringing people into the process, from politicians to residents, about what cruise can do and what it can bring to communities is key. In terms of cruiselines, she cited an example of politicians being mesmerised by waste management and recycling whilst on a ship visit, in contrast to what is done on land. In terms of destinations, she said: “Where the port and destination work together is the best. Not everyone does this but we think they should.” Bondam cited an example of the ReThinker volunteers in Aarhus, urging others to do the same. Driven by VisitAarhus, this diverse, dedicated group welcome all visitors to the city, providing not only a genuine welcome but a social benefit to the volunteers themselves. With the final results due to be presented in the coming weeks, this pan-european approach can be “a voice for good”, said Greenway. Sharing best practices, from onshore power supply to security, across different cultures can only be cohesive for an industry that is intent on securing its place favourably on the tourism stage.

21/09/2025

Year-round cruising is on the rise

On a panel to discuss year-round cruising, Luis de Carvalho, cruise commercial director at Copenhagen Malmo Port (CMP), explained that Copenhagen’s “proximity to Germany had been a huge factor in year-round/winter cruising”. He went on to explain how the loss of St Petersburg had forced CMP to look at its value proposition generally but also beyond the summer season. “We wanted cruiselines and guests to see Copenhagen in a different way. We had to look outside the box. We wanted to start creating a product that was authentic. We worked with the city, local stakeholders, guides had to be trained for a winter product, etc. Everybody had to be aligned so that we had something cruiselines could sell during the winter.” The numbers speak for themselves. From October 2018 to April 2019 CMP received 46 calls and 78,000 passengers. This compares with October 2024 to April 2025 when there were 84 calls and 225,000 passengers. He highlighted one of the benefits to come out of this growth: “This has been good news for many of our suppliers that struggle during the winter months”. Elisabetta De Nardo, vp port development MSC Cruises, pointed out some of the operational challenges that have to be addressed: “Icy roads, cancelling/delaying tours, finding guides in multiple languages, being commercially viable”. While Marcus Puttich, director destinations/incident commander TUI Cruises, explained that winter cruising attracts a different kind of guest when it comes to shore excursion offerings and that relevant airlift can be a challenge.

21/09/2025

Cruise Europe plays a key role at Seatrade Europe

The annual Cruise Europe reception at Cafe Schone Aussichten on the Monday evening (8 September) kick-started the Seatrade Europe week with a bang. Sponsored by PWL Port Services, the venue was packed with about 150 cruiseline executives who turned out to exchange news and views with CE member ports and associates. In the spirit of collaboration, people came together to renew, refresh and establish connections to ensure the industry moves forward together to the future, the theme chosen for this year’s conference: Future Forward. On the trade floor, Cruise Europe and its co-exhibiting partners - The French Atlantic Ports, Cruise Finland, North Atlantic Agency, Cruise Faroe Islands, Adelte, Port of Tallinn and Port of Klaipeda and partners - hosted many visitors to its pavilion at Seatrade Europe. Jens Skrede, managing director CE, says: “We were delighted to welcome our loyal members and cruiseline executives, both to our traditional reception and to the stand. Numerous meetings were held with our members, who reported some positive outcomes which are still under wraps.”

21/09/2025

Hamburg hosts Seatrade Europe in blue style

Seatrade Europe took place in Hamburg last week. The port side venue and host maritime city welcomed over 3,000 attendees from a record-breaking 100 countries and 250-plus exhibitors along with 75 cruiseline brands. On Friday evening, following a soft opening phase, Cruise Gate Hamburg officially inaugurated Cruise Center HafenCity, its newest city centre facility (see also https://www.cruiseeurope.com/news/news-ce-press-1755766619/). At the weekend, Hamburg Cruise Days transformed the Port of Hamburg into a grand stage for cruise fans. With a parade of eight cruiseships on the Saturday evening, an illuminated Blue Port Hamburg and a wide-ranging shoreside programme, the event offered a unique maritime experience.

21/09/2025

CE members honoured in Seatrade Cruise Awards

Copenhagen Malmo Port (CMP) was awarded the Port of the Year at the 2025 Seatrade Cruise Awards in Hamburg in early September. This award recognises CMP’s outstanding performance in delivering exceptional service and experiences to passengers, as well as its commitment to sustainability and collaboration across the cruise sector. The port serves as the gateway to its destinations, and CMP takes pride in nurturing strong collaboration between all stakeholders involved, ensuring an efficient and seamless experience for both transit and turnaround guests. In addition Cruise Britain, together with Cruise Ireland, were awarded the Destination of the Year. The award recognises a location that consistently delivers exceptional experiences to cruise passengers and cruiselines, standing out for its visitor offering, operational excellence, and collaborative approach within the industry. This recognition follows the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between Cruise Ireland and Cruise Britain last year, which signified a shared commitment to promoting and developing Ireland and the British Isles as a cruising region to help bolster cruise tourism and economic growth for both destinations.

15/09/2025

Portland Port makes splash with twin christening

It was a double celebration at Portland Port when a naming ceremony was held for two new state-of-the art vessels. Dignitaries and guests watched the christening of the Wyke Castle tug and the Silverwell pilot boat on the port’s Dock Jetty before an exhilarating demonstration of the vessels’ capabilities. The multi-million-pound investment in the new for Portland Harbour Authority’ comes as the port continues to grow. It follows the opening of a £26m new deepwater berth in 2023. Portland Port chairman Christopher Langham was joined for the naming ceremony by the Naval Regional Commander for Wales, the West of England and Channel Islands, Commodore Tristram Kirkwood OBE ADC RN and Commodore Sam Shattock, Commodore of the Royal Fleet Auxiliary ( RFA). A commemorative plaque was unveiled on the Wyke Castle before Commodore Shattock named and blessed the tug with a bottle of sparkling wine from the Langham Wine Estate. Mr Langham said: “We are here to name this fine tug boat and we also have a new pilot boat for good measure. We really now have the full toolkit and can go out and grow the business even further.” Commodore Shattock said: “It’s an amazing honour and privilege to be here to name this vessel.” He added ‘God bless her and all who sail in her’ before breaking the bottle against the ship. The ceremony also included a champagne reception and a lunch for more than 30 guests. They included the Mayor of Portland Town Council Cllr Charlie Flack and Mayoress Maria Flack. Crew from the visiting RFA Lyme Bay also attended along with businesses based at the port, councillors, representatives from Dorset Council, Portland residents and Weymouth Town Council Mayor Caroline Nickinson and Mayor’s Consort Richard Nickinson. Wyke Castle continued in the tradition of being named after local castles, apart from the previous tug which was named in honour of late Portland Port director Rupert Best in 2021. The port’s pilot boats are named after local wells with the Silverwell being the latest. Portland Port chief executive Bill Reeves said: “These new, state-of-the-art vessels represent further significant, multi-million-pound investment in the business. “They will enhance our capabilities and enable the growth of our business as well as that of our customers and tenants at the port while supporting the local economy.” The Wyke Castle joins the Rupert Best and Maiden Castle in the port’s fleet. She will be used for towage, manoeuvring and support for a diverse range of vessels, including cruise, merchant and MOD ships.