Port calls and passengers are increasing, with growing numbers and high-quality traffic. The 2026 cruise season officially began on January 27th, with the arrival of the first two ships (the Silver Muse and the Viking Vesta), and will continue until December 27th. The data, which shows a significant improvement compared to 2025, was presented this morning at a press conference—organized by Cagliari Cruise Port—which highlighted a positive trend in recent years.
Over 600,000 tourists are expected in the capital this year, compared to 477,963 in 2025 , with an increase in port calls as well, from 163 between January and December last year to 181 now. A record number, which will see – among other things – a double weekly MSC call.
In addition to presenting the data, the presentation also highlighted the capital's presence at major industry events, with a dedicated approach to marketing and ensuring the city's accessibility, not just during the summer. "Guests contribute to the local economy year-round: we're working hard to achieve this, and we want to focus on deseasonalization," stated Raffaella Del Prete, general director of GPH (Italian Cruise Ports) and general manager of Cagliari Cruise Port.
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