MedCruise, the largest cruise port association in the world, announces the launch of its Cruise Economic Impact Assessment Study, a major initiative aimed at providing a comprehensive, evidence-based understanding of the economic, social and environmental contribution of cruise tourism.
The project is conducted in cooperation with Professor Thanos Pallis of the Department of Maritime Studies at the University of Piraeus and brings together over 12 MedCruise Port Members from the Atlantic, West Mediterranean, Adriatic and East Mediterranean & Red Sea regions. This broad geographic coverage reflects the diversity of cruise destinations and market dynamics across the wider Mediterranean and beyond.
The participating ports include: Cabo Verde, Cartagena, Dubrovnik, Gibraltar, Kotor, Lavrio, Sardinian Ports, Sibenik, Taranto, Tarragona, Toulon Bay Ports, Volos and Western Sicilian Ports.
By combining robust data collection with in-depth analysis, the study seeks to generate actionable insights for port authorities, cruise lines, policymakers and local communities, supporting informed decision-making and sustainable growth.
Project Objectives
The Cruise Economic Impact Assessment Study aims to:
- Quantify the economic impact of cruise tourism, including direct, indirect and induced effects
- Identify opportunities for sustainable cruise development and enhanced local value creation
- Strengthen engagement with local communities by clearly communicating the benefits of cruise activity
- Provide guidance on increasing added value through employment generation, diversification of port activities and enhanced passenger experiences
Methodology
The study applies a robust, multi-dimensional methodology, combining quantitative and qualitative data to capture the full scope of cruise tourism impacts. Key elements include:
- Analysis of expenditure by cruise companies, passengers and crew members to map economic flows
- Assessment of value added and employment effects, including direct, indirect and induced impacts
- Evaluation of activity types, passenger profiles and port characteristics to better understand market dynamics and preferences
Data collection has commenced and will continue throughout the cruising year, ensuring a complete picture of seasonal and regional variations.
Expected Outcomes
The results of the study will be consolidated and presented at Seatrade Cruise Global 2027, providing ports and stakeholders with a strategic roadmap to optimise the economic, social and environmental benefits of cruise tourism.
The study is expected to become a key reference point for evidence-based policymaking, sustainable cruise development strategies and constructive dialogue with local communities.
Voices from the Project
Theodora Riga, President of MedCruise and President of Corfu Port Authority, commented:
“Robust data is essential, but its true value lies in how it is communicated. Cruise tourism is multifaceted, with many perspectives and only a holistic approach can do justice to its real impact. Through this approach, MedCruise ensures that the entire story is told, enabling informed dialogue and balanced decision-making.”
Lorenzo Vera, Member of the MedCruise Board of Directors and Coordinator of the initiative, added:
“This study marks a turning point in how we understand cruise tourism in the Mediterranean and its adjoining seas. By grounding the discussion in solid evidence and shared data, we are building a common framework that empowers ports and destinations to shape a more resilient and sustainable future.”
Professor Thanos Pallis, Department of Maritime Studies, University of Piraeus, stated:
“This initiative will advance our understanding of the real impact of cruise activity on Mediterranean ports and destinations, generating valuable information for all. Creating a culture of evidence-based information and providing the framework for similar studies facilitates decision making and the much-needed dialogue between all stakeholders working for sustainable cruise growth”
