Port Funchal Achieves Milestone: 700,000 Cruise Ship Tourists in a Record-Breaking Year

Port Funchal in Madeira has achieved a historic milestone by welcoming 700,000 cruise ship tourists for the first time, a record set on December 30, 2024. This achievement surpasses the previous high of 624,000 passengers recorded in 2023, highlighting the increasing popularity of the port as a cruise destination.

The occasion was celebrated with the arrival of a passenger from the AIDACosma, a cruise ship that docked in Funchal after departing from Gran Canaria. To honor this event, the Director of Port Operations and Security at the Administration of Ports of Madeira, Paulo Fale, along with Commercial Director Patricia Bairrada, presented the milestone passenger, a German national visiting with family, with a commemorative plaque and a basket of regional products. Notably, this family’s visit was their second trip to Madeira, underscoring the port’s role in encouraging repeat tourism.

In the previous year, Madeira hosted 279 ship calls, accounting for 624,400 passengers and 241,995 crew members, reflecting consistent growth in cruise tourism to the island. Enhancing its global status, the Port of Funchal was awarded the "Best Cruise Terminal in the World for Sustainability" in 2024, following accolades as Europe’s Best Cruise Destination in 2022 and 2023.

Madeira’s sustained passenger growth and international accolades are a testament to its strategic investments in sustainable infrastructure and its appeal as a premier location for cruise tourism. The port is well-positioned to strengthen its role as a key hub in the global cruise industry.

For further details, refer to Port Funchal and AIDACosma.

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