The Port of Motril will receive the largest cruise ships of the season starting next autumn, contrary to what has happened in previous seasons, thus softening the decline that has occurred in the first half of the year.
This is the case with the Nieuw Amsterdam, carrying 2,106 passengers, which visited us last April and will call again this October. The arrival of other large ships such as the Ocean Princess, the Minerva, and the Saga Pearl II, among others, is also expected.
It is estimated that more than 4,000 cruise passengers will disembark at the Port of Motril between October and November. Even so, the ships this year are smaller, although their passengers have high purchasing power.
Despite this, the number of calls at the end of the season will be similar to last year: 26 compared to 30.
Furthermore, the loyalty of companies such as Holland America, Paul Gauguin Cruises, National Geographic, and Star Clipper, whose luxury sailing ships visit us in October, and Japan Cruise Line, owner of the Peace Boat, which has returned to the Port of Motril for the second consecutive year, is evident.
Breakwater Extension:
Another factor in the Port of Motril's competitiveness will be the upcoming inauguration and commissioning of the 300-meter extension of the breakwater, currently unusable for any type of operation, whether passenger or cargo. This extension will allow for new berths, improve ship maneuverability, and increase draft.
The Port of Motril is working to gain a larger market share in the cruise segment. To this end, through Motrilport Granada, its marketing company, it participates in the main trade fairs in the sector. Furthermore, in conjunction with the Association of Municipalities of the Costa Tropical, a quality seal has been established for establishments in the city of Motril that cater to cruise passengers.
Destination Appeal:
The tourist appeal of the destination is one of the most valued factors for tour operators working with cruise lines, who strive to offer their clients as many interesting excursions as possible. And this is a great strength for the Port of Motril, because in this respect, Granada's offering is unbeatable.
The Alhambra is the undisputed draw, but Granada offers much more. Excursions to the Costa Tropical, monumental Granada, modern Granada and its shopping district, the Granada of the Paseo de los Tristes and the Albaicín, Sierra Nevada, and the Alpujarra region.
When choosing a port, shipping companies value accessibility. Motril, in this sense, has the best access to the Alhambra and is located on the cruise route. These are also strengths that must be leveraged. Another factor that shipping companies value is the port facilities. Today, the Motril dock is perfectly equipped to offer everything that cruise ships require.
