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Portugal becomes Bahamas in Europe with cruise tourists’ arrival

Tuesday, January 9, 2024

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Lisbon Cruise Port in Portugal proudly announces another record-breaking cruise tourism year in 2023, marking its strongest performance to date with an impressive 758,000 passengers. This port in Portugal has experienced a remarkable 33% growth in passenger traffic from 2019 to 2023, solidifying its status as a leading cruise tourism destination.

Lisbon cruise port sets new records with 758,000 passengers in 2023

Out of the 347 cruise ship visits made to Lisbon in 2023, 130, or 40%, were turnaround calls. This increase underscores the growing trust of cruise lines in Lisbon as both an embarkation and disembarkation point for sailings. Notable cruise lines contributing to Lisbon’s success include Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, Costa Cruises, MSC Cruises, Holland America Line, Cunard Line, Princess Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Virgin Voyages, and P&O Cruises. The river boats from Viking Cruises, Uniworld River Cruises, and AmaWaterways River Cruise Line also frequent the port, sailing the picturesque Douro River.

Consistent Success and Recognition

This achievement follows a record-setting year in 2022, with Lisbon Cruise Port reporting 103 turnaround cruise calls and 88,292 passengers. The port’s consistent success to attract millions of international cruise tourists has also earned it another World Travel Award, further cementing its reputation as a premier cruise tourism destination.

State-of-the-Art Facilities Enhance Passenger Experience

Situated on the Tagus River, Lisbon Cruise Port boasts four cruise terminals, with Terminals 3 and 4 (Jardim do Tabaco and Santa Apólonia terminals) forming the Lisbon Cruise Port. These terminals offer three floors and nearly 150,000 square feet of terminal facilities to offer premium guest experiences for cruise passengers. With ample space for luggage reception, check-in, and boarding operations, the port provides a seamless and enjoyable experience for arriving and departing guests.

Facilities and Amenities

The passengers at Lisbon Cruise Port can indulge in duty-free shopping, utilize post offices, relax in waiting rooms, access VIP lounges, and conveniently connect with taxis, panoramic buses, the subway, and train services.

Lisbon: Cruise Itineraries and Ideal Location in Europe

The luxury cruises departing from Lisbon, Portugal typically explore ports along the southern coastline of Spain, France, the Azores, the Canary Islands, and beyond. Lisbon’s strategic position as one of Europe’s most westward ports makes it an ideal hub for cruises connecting Europe, North America, and South America. Celebrity Cruises, Oceania Cruises, and NCL offer transatlantic sailings from Lisbon to destinations such as Florida’s Port Canaveral and Buenos Aires.

Portugal: Anticipating 2024 and New Tourist Tax

As 2024 unfolds, Lisbon Cruise Port is scheduled to receive 10 ship visits in January alone, featuring vessels from P&O Cruises, Cunard Line, TUI Cruises, and MSC Cruises. However, the port faces a new challenge with the introduction of a tourist tax starting in January 2024. The international cruise visitors will be required to pay a €2 (approximately $2.20 USD) fee, with cruise ship operators expected to collect the fees, projecting an annual revenue of €1.2 million ($1.32 million USD).

Rich History and Tourist Attractions in Lisbon

For those extending their stay in Lisbon, Portugal’s capital offers a rich historical experience. As the country’s largest city with a population of about 550,000, Lisbon is one of the oldest cities globally, with its settlement dating back to around 1200 BCE. The visitors can enjoy walking tours of pastel-coloured buildings, explore the gothic ruins of the Carmo Convent, indulge in high-end shopping at Avenida da Liberdade, and experience vibrant nights of eating and dancing in the Bairro Alto district.

Lisbon Cruise Port’s continuous growth, record-breaking numbers, and strategic significance in cruise itineraries to attract more cruise tourists, making an ideal destination for cruise tourism. It makes Lisbon, Portugal a standout cruise tourism destination, promising a thriving future as it navigates the challenges and opportunities of the evolving cruise tourism industry.

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