Lisbon, April 27, 2026 (Lusa) - Cruise ship tourism in Portugal generated €940 million in 2025, supporting 9,800 jobs, in a year in which the number of domestic passengers grew by more than 7%, according to the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), the world's largest cruise industry trade association.
Information released on Monday showed domestic passenger numbers rose 7.3% in 2025, when around 80,000 Portuguese people chose this holiday type.
This confirmed a rising demand trend for cruise travel in Portugal and Europe, CLIA said.
In the European market, the sector attracted 9 million passengers.
The Mediterranean remained the most popular destination with about 45% of demand, followed by regions including the Caribbean, Bahamas and Bermuda.
Cruise tourism's economic impact in Portugal reached €940 million in 2025, contributing €410 million to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Data showed the largest share of the GDP contribution came from purchases by cruise companies in the country, totalling €174 million or 42% of the industry's direct impact.
Passenger and crew spending rose to €150 million, benefiting local trade.
The Portuguese passenger profile remained stable with an average age of 48 and trips averaging eight days.
CLIA said the sector's growth in Europe continues to benefit local economies, with 64% of passengers staying overnight in port cities and about 70% joining shore excursions.
Additionally, around 60% of travellers later return to destinations they first visited on a cruise.
CLIA Europe executive director, Nikos Mertzanidis, said in a statement that cruise trips "serve to discover destinations and create lasting connections," contributing to "predictable and highly organised" tourism with a long-term impact on local economies.
The association said the sector continues to invest in fleet renewal and the energy transition.
Currently, 57% of new ships ordered feature multi-fuel engines, which can operate using different types of fuel. The industry expects eight new ships to start operating in 2026, representing a $6.6 billion (about €5.6 billion) investment.
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