The Port of Lisbon recorded its best-ever operational results in cruise tourism in 2024, consolidating its position as one of the leading tourist destinations in the sector. This historic performance was marked by six new absolute records set throughout the year, reaffirming the attractiveness and efficiency of cruise operations in Lisbon.
- Total passengers: 763,752 (previous record: 758,328 in 2023)
- Total calls: 369 (previous record: 353 in 2013)
- Transit passengers: 591,796 (7% above the previous record of 554,324 in 2023)
- Turnaround calls: 110 (previous record: 107 in 2023)
- Cruise ships: 133 (previous record: 130 in 2019)
- Cruise crew members: 288,049 (3% above the previous record of 279,090 in 2023).
In terms of source market, Europe continues to lead as the main cruise passengers origin in Lisbon, with the United Kingdom standing out, accounting for 41% of the total passengers, followed by the United States (20%) and Germany (14%).
The growth of cruise activity at the Port of Lisbon is also reflected in the number of ships, with 15 first calls in Lisbon, four of which were newly built, including three inaugural voyages.
Carlos Correia, Chairman of the Board of Port of Lisbon Authority, emphasized that “the extraordinary results of cruises in 2024 reflect the excellence of the Port of Lisbon, the unwavering commitment of our employees, and the fundamental contribution of the entire port community, particularly Lisbon Cruise Port, the concessionaire of the Cruise Terminal. Together, we have reinforced our commitment to the best environmental sustainability practices, which are increasingly a priority in Lisbon’s cruise activity.”
Duarte Cabral, General Director of Lisbon Cruise Port (LCP), stated that “2024 was marked by significant challenges but also by a remarkable consolidation of Lisbon as an excellent destination for cruise tourism in Europe. Through close collaboration with the Port of Lisbon
and the continuous support of all the involved authorities, LCP managed to overcome obstacles, promoting the sustainable growth of this vital sector for the local economy. Our strategic partnership with Port of Lisbon, in addition to strengthening Lisbon’s position on the international stage, opens new doors for the future, allowing us to face the coming years with optimism and confidence. We will continue to work together with the competent authorities to ensure that Lisbon remains at the forefront as an attractive, safe, and innovative destination for cruisers who choose our city. We are excited about the opportunities that 2025 holds for us and are committed to continuing to promote Lisbon as one of Europe’s leading cruise ports.”
Sustainability and International Recognition
It is also worth noting that in 2024, the Port of Lisbon, through Ana Lourenço, Director of Maritime Tourism, took on the coordination of the Sustainability Committee of Cruise Europe, which aims to promote sustainable and responsible practices in the cruise industry, ports, and destinations, in close collaboration with cruise companies.
Additionally, the Port of Lisbon made significant achievements in sustainability in 2024, including:
- OPS Project (Onshore Power Supply): With funding of 14.5 million euros, the first phase of the project involves the installation of electrical infrastructure to provide clean energy to docked ships, with completion expected by 2029.
- “Cruises for the Community” Program: This innovative initiative promotes social integration and sustainable tourism, strengthening the relationship between the city and cruise companies.
Another notable milestone was the christening of the eco-friendly ship Silver Ray, which uses hybrid energy technology, reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 40%, further consolidating Lisbon as a reference in adopting sustainable practices in maritime tourism.
In October 2024, the Port of Lisbon announced the creation of the Sustainability Committee for Cruise Activity in Lisbon, a collaborative initiative that reinforces the joint commitment to implementing sustainable solutions for the cruise tourism sector, involving strategic partners
such as the Port of Lisbon Authority, the Lisbon City Council, AGEPOR, ANA Aeroportos, CLIA (Cruise Lines International Association), Lisbon Cruise Port, Turismo de Lisboa, Turismo de Portugal, TAP, and Associação Zero.
On the same date, two important studies were presented by the Port of Lisbon, highlighting the positive impact of cruise activity on the local economy and ongoing environmental efforts:
- The study Economic Impact Assessment of the Cruise Industry in Lisbon 2023, developed by Nova SBE, revealed that this sector represented 0.3% of the national GDP, contributing 794 million euros, a 136% increase compared to 2019.
- The report Monitoring Air Quality Around the Lisbon Cruise Terminal confirmed that pollution levels remained within legal European and national limits, reflecting the Port of Lisbon’s commitment to environmental sustainability.
At the end of 2024, Lisbon was awarded Best Cruise Destination in Europe, and its Cruise Terminal received the Best Cruise Terminal in Europe award at the World Cruise Awards for the second time.
With a strategic vision focused on innovation and sustainability, the Port of Lisbon reaffirms its role as a key driver of tourism and the economy in Portugal, while contributing to the promotion of a responsible cruise sector with a positive impact on the local community.
