Madeira forecasts a historic record of 820,000 cruise passengers in 2026
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Madeira is heading toward record figures in its cruise activity in 2026: the Madeira Ports Administration (APRAM) is projecting 349 vessel calls and close to 820,000 passengers, which would allow the Portuguese island to surpass the 800,000-cruise-passenger mark for the first time in a single year. If confirmed, both figures would set new historic highs for the region and extend the sector's streak of consecutive annual growth to five years.
Comparison with 2025
APRAM's chairwoman, Paula Cabaço, explained that, based on the latest forecasts and berth bookings confirmed through the end of the year, around 820,000 passengers and nearly 350 calls are expected. She noted that 2025 had already been the best year on record for cruises in Madeira, with 746,000 passengers and 331 calls. If the projections hold, 2026 would represent growth of nearly 10% in passengers and 5.4% in calls compared to the previous year.
October, a key month
October is providing a significant boost to the annual total, with 33 cruise calls already booked and more than 75,000 passengers expected during the month. Cabaço said everything points to it being one of the strongest Octobers in recent years, which she attributed to cruise lines' confidence in Madeira as a destination and to the daily work of those who help ensure the quality of the visitor experience.
Figures still provisional
APRAM cautioned that the figures remain provisional and could change before year-end due to weather conditions or possible changes to vessel itineraries. In a statement, Cabaço also highlighted the role of shipping agents, excursion operators and other industry partners, whom she considered essential to sustaining this ongoing growth.
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