Costa Favolosa Kicks Off Ilhabela’s Cruise Season, Boosting Tourism in Brazil, Here’s All You Need to Know

Published on December 7, 2025

Ilhabela is a beautiful island destination in Brazil, and on November 24, 2025, it received Costa Favolosa, its first large cruise ship, and beginning what everyone is calling an exciting cruise season. Because of its warm hospitality and natural beauty, Ilhabela is loved by many, and on this Costa cruise, Ilhabela received its first of many visits. After completing the winter repositioning of the Costa cruise line, the Favolosa cruise ship was on its first voyage of the season.

Leaving Santos, Brazil, on November 23, 2025, for a 3-night cruise, the Costa Favolosa included a stop in Balneário Camboriú, another of Brazil’s beautiful coastal cities. Ilhabela is a tourist destination, and the arrival of the Costa Favolosa was the beginning of what many call an exciting and busy time for Ilhabela. The arrival of the Costa Favolosa was the beginning of what many call an exciting time for the Ilhabela cruise season. The cruise season brings many tourists, and Ilhabela’s tourism. It is the beginning of what many call an exciting time for Ilhabela.

Cruise Tourism’s Impact on Ilhabela’s Economy

The Costa Favolosa brought over 3,800 guests to Ilhabela, marking the start of what is expected to be a record-breaking cruise season. Passengers were greeted by a team of professional guides and local tour operators, who were ready to showcase the island’s stunning landscapes, rich history, and unique culture. Ilhabela’s local authorities emphasize the importance of cruise tourism to the island’s economy, noting that these visitors contribute significantly to local commerce, including restaurants, tour operators, and other businesses that rely on tourism to thrive.

Mayor Toninho Colucci of Ilhabela explained, “Cruise tourism brings visitors who consume, enjoy tours, restaurants, and local commerce, generating direct returns for residents who depend on tourism.” He also highlighted how many of these tourists develop a deep connection to the island, often returning for longer stays to explore even more of what Ilhabela has to offer.

As one of Brazil’s most beloved island destinations, Ilhabela attracts visitors not only for its beautiful beaches but also for its hiking trails, waterfalls, and vibrant community events. The arrival of large cruise ships like the Costa Favolosa is seen as a key driver of both short-term and long-term tourism growth, providing an essential boost to the island’s economy during the cruise season.

A Thriving Cruise Season Ahead for Ilhabela

The arrival of the Costa Favolosa was just the beginning of what promises to be a busy and profitable cruise season for Ilhabela. The island’s cruise season officially kicked off in October 2025 with a visit from the Scenic Eclipse, a luxury expedition ship that brought over 150 guests as part of its repositioning journey to Antarctica. This visit marked the first in what is set to be a series of visits from a variety of international vessels.

In total, Ilhabela is expected to welcome 50 cruise ship calls through April 2026, with more than 217,000 passengers and crew members making their way to the island. These ships are projected to have a significant economic impact on the region, with estimates suggesting that cruise tourism could generate over R$ 80 million (Brazilian Real) in revenue for the local economy.

Key Cruise Ships Visiting Ilhabela in 2025-2026

The MSC Fantasia, a popular ship in the MSC Cruises fleet, will be making regular visits to Ilhabela as part of its cruises originating from Argentina. This ship, known for its spacious accommodations and world-class amenities, will undoubtedly bring in large numbers of international visitors eager to explore the island’s rich culture and natural beauty.

Additionally, the MSC Armonia, another ship in the MSC fleet, is scheduled to visit Ilhabela as part of a series of short cruises departing from Rio de Janeiro. These shorter cruises appeal to tourists looking for a quick getaway, further expanding Ilhabela’s appeal as a convenient and exciting stop on Brazil’s cruise itinerary.

In addition to MSC and Costa Cruises, Ilhabela will also host vessels from Celebrity Cruises, Silversea, Azamara, AIDA Cruises, and Regent Seven Seas Cruises. These international cruise lines are known for offering diverse travel experiences, from luxury cruises to family-friendly voyages, meaning Ilhabela will be catering to a wide range of travelers seeking different types of experiences.

The Role of Local Tourism in Ilhabela’s Growth

Beyond the benefits of large cruise ships visiting the island, local tourism also plays a crucial role in the island’s economic prosperity. Ilhabela is known for its idyllic beaches, lush rainforests, and waterfalls, making it a prime destination for eco-tourism and nature-based tourism. Visitors come not only for the beachside relaxation but also to explore the island’s hiking trails, where they can discover secluded spots, scenic viewpoints, and diverse wildlife.

In addition to its natural beauty, Ilhabela has also become a hotspot for cultural tourism. The island’s traditional festivals, local markets, and thriving arts scene offer tourists a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the region. Local businesses, including restaurants, artisans, and tour operators, benefit directly from the influx of cruise passengers who seek out these authentic cultural experiences during their visit.

Sustainable Tourism Efforts in Ilhabela

As Ilhabela experiences growth in its cruise tourism sector, the island is also focusing on sustainability to preserve its natural beauty and ensure that tourism benefits both the local economy and the environment. Efforts are being made to balance tourism growth with environmental protection, ensuring that the island’s delicate ecosystems are maintained for future generations.

Local authorities have been working with tourism organizations, environmental groups, and the private sector to implement sustainable tourism practices. These initiatives include waste reduction, energy efficiency, and protecting wildlife habitats, all of which help ensure that tourism can continue to thrive while minimizing its environmental impact.

Looking Ahead: A Bright Future for Ilhabela’s Tourism Industry

The future of tourism in the beautiful Brazilian destination of Ilhabela is bright, especially considering the increase in the number of cruising ships set to visit the island between 2025 and 2026, along with the island’s sustained focus on eco tourism. International tourists in increasing numbers will no doubt visit the island and discover its beautiful coastline and breathtaking natural resources, unique culture, and hospitable people.

The island will soon be proudly showcasing world class cruise ships and their diverse international customers. Ilhabela will soon be recognized and celebrated as the most important center of cruise tourism in the South American continent. This growing tourism activity will greatly benefit the island’s residents and enhance the economic potential of the island which in turn will benefit the tourism industry overall.