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Cruise tourism in Cartagena has bounced back in spectacular style this year, with more than 50,000 cruise passengers visiting the city in October alone, thanks to a packed schedule that has seen 33 ships dock in port. The numbers mark a clear recovery for the sector after years of pandemic-related slowdown, showing just how appealing Cartagena has become as a key Mediterranean destination.

 

Today, the port receives its second five-ship call of 2025, a rare event matched only by April’s busy spring schedule. Among the arrivals are a fleet of small-format luxury vessels, such as Wind Spirit and Evrima, alongside the Emerald and the Sea Cloud Spirit, while the mighty Allure of the Seas returns for the second time this year with nearly 3,000 guests on board. These calls underline a noticeable shift in the cruise market towards high-end, boutique experiences that make Cartagena a stop for more discerning travellers.

 

State Ports data shows the upward trend isn’t limited to October: by the end of the third quarter, Cartagena had welcomed 118 cruise ships, 30% more than the previous year, bringing 173,000 cruise passengers through its terminals. The port closed 2024 with 219,432 visitors from cruise ships, but 2025 is already set to shatter that record with another 30+ ship arrivals expected before the new year.

 

Port authorities are optimistic that this strong autumn performance will drive Cartagena further up the league of Mediterranean cruise hotspots, with forecasts suggesting this year will be one for the record books. It’s a dynamic time for the local economy, businesses and the many cruise fans docking in the city from around the globe.

 

 

 

 

Image: Sonja Czeschka/Pixabay