Port Projects a Strong Year After an “Exceptional” 2024
The Port of Funchal said it expects 2025 to finish stronger than the previous year, with more ships and more passengers than in 2024. “Therefore, our forecasts point to more than 330 calls in 2025, which will also correspond to more than 750,000 passengers,” the port said in a statement to local media. The port described 2024 as already “an exceptional year.”
Busy Autumn and Winter Months Planned
Officials told reporters they expect about 155 cruise-ship visits between September and December. If those visits are confirmed, the port said, the totals for 2025 will exceed last year both in the number of calls and in passenger numbers. The port also stated that nine cruise ships are already scheduled for the end of the year.
Shift Toward Smaller, Luxury Ships That Stay Close to the City
The port is placing special emphasis on the luxury market this season. “For the first time, two luxury cruise lines will make regular calls during this season in Madeira,” the port said, naming Windstar and Silversea as operators that will run regular services.
Officials noted that smaller luxury vessels often use Quay 6, close to the city, and tend to bring passengers with higher spending power who look for authentic cultural and landscape experiences.
New Arrivals and Trade Outreach in Germany Before New Year’s Eve
The port said there are four planned debuts before the end of the year, including a visit by a Disney cruise ship and a stop by Ponant, another luxury operator. The port also said Paula Cabasso will attend two trade fairs in Hamburg next week, and that further announcements for New Year’s Eve arrivals could come from contacts in Germany.
Source: RTP Madeira
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