Madeira’s cruise tourism achieved its best year ever in 2024, welcoming over 700,000 passengers for the first time.

A total of 728,604 passengers and 271,974 crew members passed through the Ports of Madeira, marking a 16.68 percent increase in passenger traffic and a 12.3 percent rise in crew numbers.

According to the Madeira Ports Administration (APRAM, SA), the Funchal Cruise Terminal welcomed over one million people in 2024, including both passengers and crew.

“It was an outstanding year. For the first time, we reached the historic milestone of 700,000 cruise passengers, whose presence had a multiplying effect on Madeira’s economy, benefiting local commerce, restaurants, tourism activity companies, and many other services,” said Paula Cabaço, chair of APRAM’s Board of Directors.

Highlighting the increase in overnight ship stays at the Port of Funchal, Cabaço added: “Of the 316 ship calls received in 2024 – a 13.26 percent increase compared to the previous year – 88 included overnight stays. “With more time in port, cruise tourists have greater opportunities to explore the city’s offerings, resulting in a stronger impact on the local economy and benefiting businesses such as restaurants, shops, and cultural and leisure activities.”

The year 2024 also saw 23 ships making their inaugural calls at Funchal. This growth translated into a direct economic impact of €61.4 million in the regional economy, up by 20.3 percent compared to 2023.

Additionally, cruise ship supply operations at the Ports of Madeira rose by 73.8 percent compared to the previous year.

Cabaço highlighted that these achievements were made with a strong focus on sustainability and reducing the environmental impact of port activities.

“This was also the year our commitment to sustainability, the environment, and energy transition was internationally recognized, as we were awarded the title of Best Cruise Terminal in the World for Sustainability by the World Cruise Awards,” said Cabaço.