The Port of Motril closes the 2025 cruise season with record figures that solidify its position as one of the most attractive emerging destinations on the Andalusian coast. Throughout the year, the port in Granada has received a record number of calls and passengers, the result of a sustained strategy of promotion, diversification of services, and collaboration with the local business community.
According to data from the Port Authority of Motril, the 2025 figures confirm the growth of the cruise industry in the port, with a notable increase in both the number of ships and 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 due to chance, but rather to the coordinated efforts of the Port Authority and Motrilport-Granada, who have been working for years to position the port as a leading destination for small and medium-sized cruise lines, especially those interested in more personalized and sustainable itineraries.
Training and collaboration: the key to success
One of the most noteworthy initiatives this season has been the training program organized this week by Motrilport, aimed at businesses in the retail, hospitality, tourism service, and other stakeholders in the destination. The objective: to provide a comprehensive overview of how the cruise industry operates and what can be done to improve the service and support offered to visitors arriving on these ships.
During the sessions, industry experts shared experiences and best practices in customer service, logistics coordination, and destination promotion. This training is 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 broadly distributed among local businesses and the surrounding tourism sector.
Looking to the future: the 2026 season
The outlook for 2026 is even more optimistic. New cruise lines have confirmed their call at Motril, a boutique destination in the Western Mediterranean. The commitment to quality service, infrastructure improvements, and close collaboration with public and private institutions are attracting the interest of companies seeking ports with a distinct identity, authenticity, and exclusive experiences for their passengers.
In 2026, the number of passengers could exceed 100,000, with 67 planned port calls thanks to Norwegian Cruise Line's commitment to Motril, where it will make 31 calls. Luxury cruises from Oceania Cruises, Explora Journeys, and Seabourn will also be calling, in addition to the British companies Saga Cruises and P&O, and the Star Clippers sailing ships.
The President of the Port Authority, José García Fuentes, emphasized that “the growth of cruise ship traffic in Motril is the result of consistent effort and a strategy based on sustainability, collaboration, and the professionalization of the destination.” He also stressed the importance of continuing to invest in training, promotion, and improving the cruise passenger experience, so that each visit translates into new economic and employment opportunities.
A destination in full transformation
The Port of Motril 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 project the image of Motril and Granada in key international tourist 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.
