The Port of Motril is preparing to receive a flood of cruise ship tourists this season, with more than 60,000 passengers expected, marking a milestone in its history.
The Port Authority and the City Council have signed an agreement to finance the shuttle buses that transport passengers, demonstrating a joint effort to boost cruise tourism in the region.
“It is important to convey a message of unity to the sector, and I want to express my gratitude for the city council's understanding and support in promoting cruises to the destination. It is clear to everyone that this is an industry that generates employment and wealth, reduces the seasonality of tourism, and serves as an economic driver for productive sectors in the destination, such as commerce, hospitality, restaurants, transportation, and other services,” stated the President of the Port Authority, José García Fuentes.
For this season, which begins on April 8 with the Norwegian Dawn, the confirmed calls have a total capacity of 60,352 passengers, on board 39 ships, representing a growth of 74.4% in the number of cruise passengers and 56% in the number of calls, compared to the 2023 season.
The new additions of shipping companies and the high rate of customer loyalty underline the growing importance of the Port of Motril as a top-class tourist destination in the Mediterranean.
“With this data, we are facing a truly good year, which opens up enormous possibilities and expectations for the port, Motril, the Costa Tropical, Granada and the rest of the province and consolidates us as a destination for the major shipping companies,” said José García Fuentes.
The mayor of Motril, Luisa María García Chamorro, stated that “The start of the cruise season continues the collaborative work between the City Council and the Port Authority.” García Chamorro added, “It is important to join forces to provide a unique experience for all our visitors.”
This season sees the addition of new cruise lines such as MSC Explora Journey, Marella, Pacific Cruise World United-Japan Grace and National Geographic Explorer, joining the luxury lines that are repeating calls such as Star Clippers, Silver Sea Cruises, Oceania Cruise Lines, Regent Seven Seas, Silver Sea and Seabourn Cruise, in addition to NCL (Norwegian Cruise Line).
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