Copenhagen Port triumphs with cruise comeback and top award

Friday, March 8, 2024

The Port of Copenhagen, renowned for its significant maritime legacy and commitment to eco-friendly practices, is celebrating a notable resurgence in cruise tourism, evidenced by an impressive increase in the number of cruise ship visits.

Serving as a key entry point to the Baltic Sea and the North Atlantic, the port boasts three cruise terminals located at Ocean Quay, conveniently situated near both the city center and Copenhagen Airport.

In 2023, the Port of Copenhagen played host to nearly 300 cruise ships, bringing in over 750,000 passengers. While these figures represent a strong rebound from the downturn caused by the pandemic, they have yet to surpass the port’s 2019 statistics, which saw 348 ship calls and approximately 940,000 cruise passengers.

Looking ahead to 2024, port authorities are optimistic about maintaining this positive trajectory in both ship and passenger numbers, with the expectation of consistent vessel visits throughout the year. Notably, the winter season from October 2024 to April 2025 is already scheduled to welcome over 50 cruise ship calls, indicating a promising off-season performance.

Highlighting its esteemed reputation within the cruise industry, the Port of Copenhagen was honored as Europe’s Leading Cruise Port for the fifth time, receiving the accolade at the World Travel Awards on March 6, 2024, in Berlin. Previously, the port claimed this distinction in 2008, 2010, 2011, and 2012. This recognition not only benefits the port but also bolsters Copenhagen’s appeal as a city rich in cultural and historical attractions.

Klaus Bondam, Director of Cruise at CruiseCopenhagen, emphasized the award’s significance in promoting Denmark as a cruise destination, particularly during efforts to attract more American cruise lines to the region. Bondam suggested that this accolade underscores the wealth of experiences available in Copenhagen and beyond.

Luis de Carvalho, Commercial Cruise Director of Copenhagen Malmö Port, graciously accepted the award, expressing gratitude to the cruise lines, local businesses, and stakeholders responsible for crafting unforgettable experiences for visitors.

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