The Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) is holding its 2026 European Summit from 23 to 26 February in Funchal, bringing together cruise line executives, European and national policymakers, and maritime industry leaders to discuss sustainable growth, connectivity and destination readiness. The event, organised in partnership with the Regional Government of Madeira and the Ports Administration of the Autonomous Region of Madeira (APRAM), positions Madeira as a strategic Atlantic hub, highlighting its record 740,000 cruise passengers in the 2024/25 season and €61.4 million in direct economic impact. Hundreds of participants are addressing the sector’s contribution to economic growth, decarbonisation, port preparedness and responsible tourism, with a particular focus on island regions.
The official opening session took place on Wednesday morning, 25 February, at the Madeira Congress Centre.
Nikos Mertzanidis (Director, CLIA Europe)
Nikos Mertzanidis highlighted Madeira’s unique position: “Located in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean between the Americas and Europe, it is, for me, especially under current circumstances, a reminder that tourism is a force for good, a force for peace. Cruise tourism brings together hundreds of nationalities on board ships visiting destinations and fostering cultural exchange.”
He expressed enthusiasm for the discussions: “I am so excited. We had very good discussions yesterday and excellent feedback from everyone here.”
He praised the regional model: “An island of 260,000 inhabitants welcoming around five million tourists, one million cruise passengers […] all within an intelligently designed system.” He also called for engagement to help shape policy initiatives such as the Ocean Act.
Bud Darr (President and CEO, CLIA)
Bud Darr stated: “The European Summit comes at a crucial moment for dialogue between the cruise sector and policymakers, as Europe defines the next phase of its transport, tourism and climate agenda.”
At the opening session, he added: “What a wonderful place to be, and what a privilege to be here in Madeira. The facilities are outstanding.”
He shared industry data: “The figures are impressive. There is 16% year-on-year growth […] €64.1 billion in economic impact in Europe and 445,000 jobs supported.” For Portugal specifically, he noted: “€940 million in total economic impact and 9,800 jobs.”
He concluded: “It is truly rewarding to be part of a sector that is growing, vibrant, bold and willing to invest in the future.”
Hugo Espírito Santo (Secretary of State for Infrastructure, Portugal)
Hugo Espírito Santo underlined: “Portugal is undoubtedly a maritime nation. The sea is an essential part of our DNA.” He described Madeira as an “Atlantic gateway for European maritime tourism.”
He presented the national Ports 5+ strategy: “This strategy – a holistic approach for the entire sector – is indeed the cornerstone of what we aim to achieve.”
On decarbonisation, he reaffirmed the target of reducing port emissions by 80% by 2035. He invited collaboration: “Portugal is open to investment, innovation and partnerships, and we look forward to working with all of you and with CLIA.”
José Manuel Rodrigues (Regional Secretary for the Economy, Madeira)
José Manuel Rodrigues announced: “2025 was undoubtedly the best year ever for the cruise sector in Madeira, with more than one million people on board […] generating around €63 million in economic impact.”
In January 2026 alone, Madeira recorded 41 cruise calls and 113,210 passengers.
He outlined the regional strategy: “It is firmly based on sustainability, innovation and the valorisation of ocean resources, promoting a model of responsible tourism.”
Apostolos Tzitzikostas (European Commissioner)
Apostolos Tzitzikostas warned: “The world has become somewhat more fragmented […] tensions and conflicts are reshaping global trade and affecting the maritime sector.”
On climate change, he stressed: “The impact is tangible and accelerating. We must respond decisively through innovation.”
He announced: “In early March, I will present the EU Maritime Industrial Strategy and the EU Ports Strategy.”
His vision: “Europe must lead in sustainable maritime innovation.”
Pierfrancesco Vago (Executive Chairman, MSC Cruises)
Pierfrancesco Vago praised Madeira: “Madeira is a place where the relationship between cruises, connectivity and island communities can be clearly seen.”
On Europe, he remarked: “Europe is an island. It must develop the appropriate maritime infrastructure.”
He highlighted investment plans: “€77 billion in European shipbuilding over the next 10 years.”
On sustainability: “We are driving one of Europe’s largest RCD efforts.”
He concluded: “Cruise tourism is the best example of managed tourism in the world.”
