The number of cruise ships staying overnight at Funchal Port doubled in the first quarter of this year compared to the same period in 2025, according to data released by APRAM – Madeira Ports Administration. The figures reflect a 51.80% increase in overnights compared to last year.
Between January and March 2026, the port registered 41 overnight calls totalling 43 nights, up from 27 calls and 39 nights in the first quarter of 2025. Compared with 2024, the growth is even more significant: a 115.50% rise in the number of overnight calls (19 calls and 25 nights in that period).
“This remarkable increase in overnight stays at Funchal Port confirms the confidence cruise companies place in Madeira and reinforces the destination’s attractiveness,” said Paula Cabaço, CEO of Madeira Ports. She added that the results show that ongoing investment in operational efficiency, safety and the modernisation of port infrastructure is paying off, consolidating Funchal as a leading cruise port in the Atlantic.
The number of overnight cruise passengers also rose sharply, reaching 84,091 in the first quarter of 2026, up from 59,649 in 2025 (+40.97%). Compared with 2024 (40,607 passengers), the increase exceeds 107%. Crew overnights also grew steadily: 32,868 in 2026, compared with 21,856 in 2025 and 13,935 in 2024.
“Each overnight call means more visitors spending more time in the city, which translates into greater economic activity for local businesses, restaurants, transport operators and tourist services,” noted Cabaço. She highlighted that the cruise industry already generates more than €63 million annually for Madeira’s regional economy.
Beyond its economic impact, the APRAM Chairwoman stressed that cruise tourism does not compete with local residents for accommodation, car rentals or supermarket purchases, and therefore does not increase pressure on the city’s daily life.
Since 2022 – the first year of post-pandemic recovery – overnight calls have followed a consistent upward trend. That year, the port recorded 40 overnight calls, carrying 34,405 passengers and 23,484 crew. In 2023, the number of calls fell slightly, but both passenger (54,163) and crew (20,105) numbers increased.
“This growth is also the result of the work we’ve been doing at major international cruise industry fairs and forums, where the unique strengths of Funchal Port — including its proximity to the city centre, the quality of our services and the warm hospitality Madeira is known for — continue to be highlighted,” added Cabaço.
