Cruise tourism in Madeira experienced its best year to date in 2024, surpassing the 700,000 passenger mark for the first time. A total of 728,604 passengers and 271,974 crew members passed through Madeira's ports, setting a new record with a 16.68% increase in passenger traffic and a 12.3% increase in crew numbers.
According to the Madeira Ports Administration (APRAM, SA), the Funchal Cruise Terminal received more than one million people, including passengers and crew.
“It has been an exceptional year. For the first time, we reached the historic milestone of 700,000 cruise passengers, whose presence had a multiplier effect on Madeira’s economy, benefiting local businesses, restaurants, tourism companies, and many other services,” summarized Paula Cabaço, President of the Board of Directors of APRAM, highlighting the increase in overnight stays of ships in the Port of Funchal.
Of the 316 cruise ship calls received in 2024 – representing a 13.26% increase over the previous year – 88 included overnight stays. “With more time in port, cruise tourists have greater opportunities to explore the city, which generates a stronger impact on the local economy and benefits businesses such as restaurants, shops, and cultural and leisure activities,” explained Paula Cabaço.
The year 2024 was also notable for the arrival of 23 ships making their inaugural call in Funchal, six of which were launched that same year. “Of the seven ships introduced by major cruise lines in 2024, six called at the Port of Funchal,” commented Paula Cabaço, adding that this growth translated into a direct economic impact of €61.4 million on the regional economy, a 20.3% increase compared to 2023.
Another key area of growth was cruise ship provisioning. In 2024, the Ports of Madeira recorded 73 logistics operations, representing a 73.8% increase over the previous year.
According to the president of APRAM, all these achievements were attained while maintaining a firm commitment to sustainability and reducing the environmental impact of port activities.
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