The 2026 CLIA European Summit Sets Sail in Beautiful Madeira
European cruise industry leaders gathered in Funchal, Madeira, from February 23 to 26, 2026, for the CLIA European Summit, organized by the Cruise Lines International Association. This event, held with the support of the Regional Government of Madeira and local port authorities, focused on sustainable growth and the interconnectedness of transport, tourism, and climate policy in Europe.
The summit served as a key policy forum, uniting cruise executives, European institutional representatives, and numerous stakeholders. Hosting the summit in Madeira highlighted the region’s strategic importance in discussions pertaining to maritime and tourism development, particularly for island territories and Atlantic regions.
Notable attendees included Portugal’s Secretary of State for Infrastructure and the President of the Regional Government of Madeira, alongside key figures from the cruise industry such as association executives and international maritime organizations. Their discussions aimed to cover vital topics such as the economic impact of cruising, regional development strategies, decarbonization efforts, port readiness, and responsible tourism management.
The president and CEO of CLIA emphasized the significance of the summit in the context of ongoing discussions between the cruise industry and policymakers as Europe charts its future on transport and climate issues. He noted that the sector contributes to economic growth and regional connectivity while adhering to European sustainability goals.
Madeira recently experienced its best cruise season on record in 2024 and 2025, hosting over 740,000 passengers and making a considerable economic impact. The destination was also honored as Europe’s Best Cruise Destination for 2025 by an international award. Local authorities and port operators continue to invest in digital solutions and environmental monitoring to enhance their operational capabilities and long-term resilience in the cruise sector.
The summit enjoyed robust support from industry partners across the maritime value chain, reflecting widespread commercial and technical endorsement for its objectives.
Set sail on a voyage of discovery with CruiseShip.net – your ultimate destination for all things cruising! Explore the latest news, insightful reviews, and thrilling cruising adventures from around the globe. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or a first-time traveler, CruiseShip.net is your go-to source for expert advice, insider tips, and inspiring stories to fuel your wanderlust. Embark on a journey like no other with CruiseShip.net – where every wave brings new excitement and endless possibilities on the high seas.
At CruiseShip.net, our editorial team is made up of passionate travelers, seasoned cruisers, and maritime industry enthusiasts who live and breathe life at sea. From the latest ship launches and destination spotlights to detailed reviews and onboard tips, we are dedicated to helping readers discover the joy of cruising.
Our mission is to make every article both inspiring and useful, whether you are planning your first voyage or your fiftieth. We research, fact-check, and collaborate with cruise insiders around the world to bring you accurate, up-to-date, and exciting coverage of the global cruise industry.
Join us as we chart new horizons, exploring one port, one ship, and one unforgettable experience at a time.
Editorial Team
At CruiseShip.net, our editorial team is made up of passionate travelers, seasoned cruisers, and maritime industry enthusiasts who live and breathe life at sea. From the latest ship launches and destination spotlights to detailed reviews and onboard tips, we are dedicated to helping readers discover the joy of cruising. Our mission is to make every article both inspiring and useful, whether you are planning your first voyage or your fiftieth. We research, fact-check, and collaborate with cruise insiders around the world to bring you accurate, up-to-date, and exciting coverage of the global cruise industry. Join us as we chart new horizons, exploring one port, one ship, and one unforgettable experience at a time.
Leave a Reply