Discover The Magic Of Ilhabela As Costa Favolosa Opens New Cruise Season

Published on December 7, 2025

Ilhabela, one of Brazil’s most attractive coastal destinations, recently welcomed the Costa Favolosa, which officially kicked off the 2025-2026 cruise season. This important event occurred on November 24, 2025, as part of the ship’s journey to South America for the winter. The Costa Favolosa was the first large cruise ship to reach Ilhabela, bringing in 3,800 passengers and enhancing the island’s standing as a key stop on Brazil’s expanding cruise circuit.

This event sets the stage for a successful season, with thousands of visitors expected on the island. Many ships are scheduled to dock at Ilhabela’s port throughout the upcoming months.

Ilhabela’s Thriving Cruise Industry

Ilhabela’s cruise sector is thriving, making it a top choice for global cruise companies. Local authorities believe the arrival of the Costa Favolosa will significantly boost the economy. The presence of cruise ships brings a lot of international tourists and creates direct economic benefits for the island’s residents. Passengers often take part in local tours, eat at restaurants, and shop at local stores, which helps support the tourism-driven economy.

According to Ilhabela’s Mayor, the local economy depends on cruise tourism, encouraging spending across various sectors. Tourists arriving on these ships often fall in love with the island’s beauty and return for longer stays. Consequently, the island has invested heavily in infrastructure and services to ensure every cruise passenger enjoys a warm and welcoming experience.

The 2025-2026 Cruise Season Forecast

The 2025-2026 cruise season in Ilhabela kicked off in early October when the Scenic Eclipse arrived at the port with 150 guests. This cruise was part of a repositioning voyage to Antarctica, highlighting the island’s international appeal. Following the Costa Favolosa’s arrival, Ilhabela anticipates a busy season, with 49 more ship visits scheduled until April 2026.

These visits will collectively bring over 217,000 passengers and crew members to the island, resulting in an estimated economic impact of more than R$80 million. With so many cruise visitors, the town is set to continue reaping the benefits of cruise tourism in the months ahead.

Notable Ships Visiting Ilhabela

Besides the Costa Favolosa, several other major cruise ships will visit Ilhabela this season. The MSC Fantasia, a well-known vessel from MSC Cruises, will make regular stops at the island as part of its cruises that start in Argentina. This addition is exciting due to the popularity of MSC ships among international travelers.

Ilhabela will also welcome the MSC Armonia, which will be part of some short cruises departing from Rio de Janeiro. In addition to MSC and Costa, several other prestigious cruise lines will enhance the island’s growing reputation. Celebrity Cruises, Silversea, Azamara, AIDA Cruises, and Regent Seven Seas Cruises are some of the operators whose ships are scheduled to arrive in Ilhabela, further enriching the international presence at this beautiful location.

Impact of Cruise Tourism on Ilhabela’s Economy

The economic advantages of cruise tourism are extensive, affecting not just businesses directly tied to tourism but also those in supporting roles. Restaurants, souvenir shops, tour guides, taxi services, and local artisans are among the groups that will benefit most from these prominent cruise visits. For Ilhabela’s residents, cruise tourism is a crucial part of the local economy, providing many opportunities to earn a living by catering to the influx of tourists.

Local officials have stressed the importance of sustainable growth in cruise tourism. Continuous efforts aim to ensure that the island’s infrastructure and tourism services meet the needs of international guests. These developments include upgrading docking facilities, improving tourist routes, and promoting local cultural experiences, all of which help create a memorable stay for visitors.

Preparing for the Future

Looking ahead, Ilhabela is focused on making sure the flow of cruise passengers continues to benefit both the economy and the local community. The port infrastructure is being upgraded to handle even larger ships, and plans are underway to improve local services.

As the season progresses, the island will receive more large vessels, solidifying its role as a significant destination in Brazil’s cruise tourism network. Authorities in Ilhabela are committed to enhancing the visitor experience and are hopeful about the ongoing growth of the cruise industry in the region.

Conclusion

Ilhabela’s 2025-2026 cruise season has begun on a high note with the arrival of the Costa Favolosa, the first of many ships set to visit the island. As the season unfolds, Ilhabela will continue to draw cruise tourists from around the globe, significantly impacting the local economy and showcasing the island’s unique charm. With its stunning landscapes, lively culture, and friendly atmosphere, Ilhabela is likely to remain one of Brazil’s top cruise destinations for years to come.