The number of cruise ships that made overnight stops at the port of Funchal doubled in the first quarter of this year compared to the same period in 2025, according to data published by APRAM – Administração dos Portos da Madeira. The figures show a 51.80% increase in overnight stays compared to last year.
Between January and March 2026, the port recorded 41 overnight calls, totaling 43 nights, compared to 27 calls and 39 nights in the first quarter of 2025. Compared to 2024, the growth is even more significant: a 115.50% increase in the number of overnight calls (19 calls and 25 nights during that period).
“This significant increase in overnight stops at the port of Funchal confirms the confidence that cruise lines have in Madeira and reinforces the destination’s appeal,” said Paula Cabaço. She added that these results demonstrate that ongoing investment in operational efficiency, safety, and the modernization of port infrastructure is paying off, consolidating Funchal’s position as one of the leading cruise ports in the Atlantic.
The number of cruise passengers who stayed overnight also increased significantly, reaching 84,091 in the first quarter of 2026, compared to 59,649 in 2025 (+40.97%). Compared to 2024 (40,607 passengers), the increase exceeds 107%. Overnight stays by crew members also grew steadily: 32,868 in 2026, compared to 21,856 in 2025 and 13,935 in 2024.
“Every overnight port call means more visitors spending more time in the city, which translates into increased economic activity for local businesses, restaurants, transportation operators, and tourism service providers,” said Cabaço. He also noted that the cruise industry already generates more than 63 million euros annually for Madeira’s regional economy.
Beyond the economic impact, the president of APRAM emphasized that cruise tourism does not compete with local residents for lodging, car rentals, or supermarket shopping and, therefore, does not increase the strain on daily life in the city.
Since 2022—the first year of recovery following the pandemic—overnight calls have shown a steady upward trend. That year, the port recorded 40 overnight calls, with 34,405 passengers and 23,484 crew members. In 2023, the number of port calls declined slightly, although both the number of passengers (54,163) and crew members (20,105) increased.
“This growth is also the result of the work we have been doing at major international cruise industry trade shows and forums, where the unique strengths of the Port of Funchal continue to be highlighted—including its proximity to the city center, the quality of our services, and the warm hospitality for which Madeira is known,” added Cabaço.
