The Port of Motril bids farewell to the 2025 cruise season with record figures that consolidate its position as one of the most attractive emerging destinations on the Andalusian coast. Throughout the year, the port of Granada has received a historic number of calls and passengers, the result of a sustained strategy of promotion, service diversification, and collaboration with the local business community.
According to data from the Port Authority of Motril, the 2025 balance confirms the growth of the cruise industry in the Motril enclave, with a notable increase both in the number of ships and in the number of passengers who have enjoyed the tourist, gastronomic, and cultural offerings of the Costa Tropical and the province of Granada. This growth is not the result of chance, but of the coordinated efforts of the Port Authority and Motrilport-Granada, who have been working for years to position the port as a benchmark destination for small and mid-sized cruise lines, especially those interested in more personalised and sustainable itineraries.
Training and collaboration: the key to success
One of the most notable initiatives this season has been the training cycle organised this week by Motrilport, aimed at retailers, restaurants, tourism service providers, and other local stakeholders. The goal: to offer a global view of how the cruise industry works and what can be done to improve the attention and services offered to visitors arriving on these ships.
During the sessions, industry experts shared experiences and best practices in customer service, logistical coordination, and destination promotion. This training forms part of the Port Authority’s commitment to involving the entire Motril community in the development of the cruise industry, so that the economic benefits are more widely distributed among local businesses and the surrounding tourism offer.
Looking to the future: the 2026 season
Forecasts for 2026 are even more optimistic. New calls have been confirmed from cruise lines that are choosing Motril as a boutique destination within the western Mediterranean. The commitment to service quality, infrastructure improvements, and coordination with public and private institutions is attracting the interest of companies looking for ports with their own identity, authenticity, and exclusive experiences for their passengers.
In 2026, the number of passengers could rise to more than 100,000, with 67 calls scheduled thanks to Norwegian Cruise Line’s commitment to Motril, where it will make 31 calls. Luxury cruise ships from Oceania Cruises, Explora Journeys, and Seabourn will also call, as well as the British lines Saga Cruises and P&O, and the sailing ships of Star Clippers.
The president of the Port Authority, José García Fuentes, highlighted that “the growth of cruises in Motril is the result of constant work and a strategy based on sustainability, collaboration, and the professionalisation of the destination.” He also underlined the importance of continuing to invest in training, promotion, and the improvement of the cruise guest experience, so that each visit translates into new economic and employment opportunities.
A destination in full transformation
The Port of Motril thus continues its transformation into an economic engine for the entire Costa Tropical and the province of Granada. Cruise tourism, complementary to commercial and passenger traffic, is helping to diversify the local economy and to project the image of Motril and Granada in the main international tourism markets.
With solid planning, a vision for the future, and the joint commitment of the public and private sectors, the port faces 2026 with the challenge of surpassing its own records and continuing to consolidate its position as an essential port of call for cruise tourism in southern Spain.
