The Madeira Regional Ports Administration (APRAM, SA) has announced that Madeira is expected to close 2026 with a new record of 349 cruise ship calls, while also preparing to surpass the 800,000 cruise passenger mark in a single year for the first time.

APRAM said in a press release that the two new records, both all-time highs for the region, cap an exceptional year with the cruise industry recording five consecutive years of growth.

“Based on the latest forecasts and the berth bookings scheduled through to the end of the year, we are expecting close to 820,000 cruise passengers and nearly 350 cruise ship calls (349),” said APRAM Chairwoman Paula Cabaco, noting that 2025 had already been the best year ever for cruising in Madeira, with 746,000 passengers and 331 calls.

If confirmed, these figures will make 2026 a new record year for cruise activity in Madeira, representing growth of almost 10 percent in passenger numbers and 5.4 percent in cruise calls compared with 2025.

Strong activity in October is also contributing to growth, with 33 cruise calls already booked and more than 75,000 passengers expected.

“Everything points to one of the strongest Octobers of recent years, which demonstrates the cruise lines’ confidence in Madeira as a destination and is also the result of the work of everyone who contributes, on a daily basis, to the quality of the experience of those who visit us,” said Cabaco.

Cabaco highlighted the important role of shipping agents, shore excursion companies and other sector partners who have been fundamental to this continued growth.

The figures remain provisional and may still change before the end of the year, notably due to weather conditions or possible changes to ships’ itineraries, the press release added.