Almost 300 cruise calls predicted for Hamburg in 2025

Passenger shipping will play an increasingly important role in the Port of Hamburg in the coming season. 

A further increase in cruise calls is expected with Cruise Gate Hamburg stating that it anticipates 294 calls in 2025 (compared to 268 calls in 2024) from 45 different ships and 21 cruise lines. 

A special highlight will be three inaugural calls from Windstar Cruises’ Star Pride, Princess Cruises’ Emerald Princess and Japan Grace’s Pacific World. 

In addition to ocean-going cruise ships, 39 calls from river vessels are also planned. 

‘We are very pleased with the renewed increase in calls,’ remarked Simone Maraschi, CGH’s MD. ‘The commitment of the cruise lines to continue offering year-round voyages from Hamburg – with more than 30% of calls occurring outside the peak season – also demonstrates the passengers' undiminished desire to travel. The interest in cruises, particularly among Germans, is high and rising.’

A review of the 2024 season will be published in the new year once the current season concludes. 

New cruise terminal on the way 

Additionally, a new cruise terminal in HafenCity is set to be completed next year, covering an area of 10,000 sq m including two underground levels with bus and taxi terminals and two levels for passenger handling. It will offer two berths, set to be equipped with shore power connections.

Iris Scheel, also an MD at CGH, said, ‘We are delighted that the new terminal will add a very attractive location to our range of berths for cruise lines. The unique location in the heart of the city, in a vibrant and dynamic district, opens up promising opportunities for our existing and new customers.’ 

Cruise passengers will benefit from the attractive surroundings in HafenCity once the terminal is operational. The future terminal will also feature its own underground connection, making travel to and from the terminal by train and public transport extremely convenient, while also providing quick access to the city centre. 

A growth industry

The cruise industry represents a significant economic factor for Hamburg and is recognised by the city as a growth industry. With 4,490 jobs in the service sector and a gross value added of 419.7 million euros, it is an important component of the city’s tourism performance. 

Regular maritime events in Hamburg further contribute to value creation: seven cruise ships are expected in the city from May 9 to 11 for the 836th Hamburg Port Anniversary, while the 10th edition of the Hamburg Cruise Days will return in 2025, taking place from September 12 to 14 and featuring 10 cruise ships and hundreds of thousands of visitors. 

Seatrade Europe will take place in Hamburg from September 10-12, contributing to the international visibility of the destination. 

On an international level, CGH will promote the destination at Seatrade Cruise Global in Miami, USA from April 7-10.