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During the first seven months of the year, the National Port System showed solid growth of 21.6% in cruise passenger movement, representing a total of 488,567 passengers in disembarkation and embarkation operations, surpassing the 401,608 recorded in the same period of 2025 (an additional 86,959 passengers).
Of the total figure, 247,353 corresponded to disembarkations and 241,214 to embarkations, reflecting Panama's dynamism as a destination and its competitiveness in providing auxiliary maritime services to meet the needs of this important industry.
Between January and July 2026, 143 cruise ship arrivals were also registered, compared to 119 recorded during the same period in 2025. This figure represents an increase of 20.1%, equivalent to 24 additional arrivals.
This behavior is complemented by an increase in transit passengers, who rose from 196,591 between January and July 2025 to 216,805 in the same period of 2026, for a growth of 10.2%.
Likewise, the number of cruise ship crew members showed a significant increase, rising from 87,364 to 105,021, representing a growth of 20.2% in the indicated period.
Statistics on the National Port System, managed by the Planning Office of the Panama Maritime Authority (AMP), highlight the consolidation of the cruise sector as a relevant component of national maritime and port activity, explained Ibis Pérez, head of this area.
Cruise ship arrivals in the country generate greater movement in port terminals and contribute to the economic dynamics of the region. More cruise ships, more passengers, and greater port movement continue to strengthen our position as a strategic hub for the tourism vessel industry.
Ports Prepare for the 2026-2027 Cruise Season
Cruise ports concessioned by the AMP are preparing for the start of a new season that will begin in October, becoming strategic points for the development of the industry in the region, supported by the country's privileged geographical position, air connectivity, and infrastructure prepared to handle international operations.
Panamanian ports with the capacity to handle deep-draft cruise ships function as gateways and platforms to boost the tourist and commercial activity of the Panamanian nation.
Facilities such as Colón 2000 on the Atlantic and the Amador Cruise Terminal on the Pacific are preparing to receive visitors under both port-of-call and homeport modalities.
