• 4 min de lectura
• 4 min de lectura
June 9, 2026
Palermo opened its second cruise terminal and announced plans for a direct walkway to the city centre as the Sicilian port prepares to handle nearly one million passengers in 2026.
The new Cruise Terminal Sammuzzo opened in May, covering 1,300 square metres adjacent to Palermo's longest pier at 370 metres. The facility has already processed passengers from vessels including Costa Smeralda, which carries over 6,000 passengers.
At Palermo Cruise Terminal, Antonino Corrao, GM of West Sicily Gate, announced plans for a 100-metre walkway linking the terminal directly to Palermo's town centre. The walkway is scheduled to open by the end of 2026.
The existing Palermo Cruise Terminal can process 13,000 passengers daily across two berths and operates on three floors. A new luggage claim building will begin construction by year-end, ready for the next cruise season.
Palermo operates three piers measuring 350 metres, 300 metres, and 370-plus metres, with plans for an additional dolphin berth to accommodate another vessel. Both facilities are managed by West Sicily Gate company, a venture between MSC Cruises and Costa Cruises.
The port expects 270 calls in 2026, with nearly one million passengers. For 2027, 340 calls are already planned. Peak periods occur in May and October, with two vessels calling weekly during the season, though the port receives year-round traffic.
The day saw cruise lines and media experience Palermo's key attractions through a comprehensive programme. An afternoon sightseeing tour by water showcased the city's famous landmarks, including glimpses of the gothic quarter, the historic tuna industry connected to the Florio family, and the renowned opera house. The boat tour, which typically accommodates 20 passengers, provided attendees with a unique perspective of the port city.
A press conference followed in the evening, hosted by MedCruise and the Port System Authority of the Western Sicilian Sea. Annalisa Tardino, president of the Sicilian Port Authority, opened proceedings by thanking local dignitaries and president of MedCruise, Theodora Riga, for bringing the event to fruition.
"Palermo deserves the acknowledgement of being at the centre of the Mediterranean Sea," Tardino said, highlighting the region's diversity. She noted that the authority's six ports – currently defined as minor ports – were historically significant, each with distinct characteristics and socio-economic functions.
"We're here because Sicily must have the opportunity to reclaim itself starting from the sea," she continued, commending MedCruise for building relationships over 30 years. The port authority is conducting studies on rules and regulations, and appealed to Riga for assistance in protecting Sicily at institutional levels.
Tardino referenced studies showing that in the Mediterranean, 70 per cent of international flows represent a very small percentage of potential capacity. Research conducted by public bodies in cooperation with the University of Genoa will analyse impact and flows to guide infrastructure development and establish facilities to meet operational requirements.
Quoting Italian writer Leonardo Sciascia, she noted, "Sicily is not an island, Sicily is a continent," and is targeting 1.2 million cruise passengers. "It's not just a question of numbers, it's a question of credibility," she added, emphasising the importance of local territories working together with synergy.
Two studies are underway: SRM focusing on cargo operations, and the University of Genoa examining the impact of the Emissions Trading System (ETS) on the cruise sector.
Edy Tamajo, councillor for productive activities of the Sicilian region, noted that enterprise is growing in Sicily, with GDP and wealth expanding. "We are honoured to have you here," he told attendees. "We want to show Sicily is a beautiful land."
Alessandro Anello, councillor for the tourism department, highlighted growing regional tourism and confirmed it will be possible to reach 1.2 million passengers in 2027. He outlined significant investment, including 50 million euros being spent on the southern coast and reclaiming large areas. Anello also noted new flight connections, including routes from Canada to Palermo.
Mayor of Licata Angelo Balsamo described the region's history, noting that "the port is the gate to the world."
Riga said all six ports in the western Sicilian sea will no longer be considered minor ports. "I'm honoured to be back [in Palermo]" she said, noting that Palermo was a founder port of MedCruise, which celebrates its 30th anniversary this year.
The information was shared during events for media and cruise line representatives attending the 68th MedCruise General Assembly in Palermo from June 9-12. A welcome reception concluded the evening's proceedings.
Fuente: sea-trade cruise
