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Porto received record number of cruise calls in 2022

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The port received more cruise passengers last year than in 2019, but the number is surpassed by 2018's result
Porto received the highest number of cruise calls in its history last year, documenting 112 in total - 11 more than in 2018 and 2019.

Of that number, 22 ships were new to Porto, six turnarounds operations were carried out plus Disney Cruise Line made its debut at the port. 

2018: still the best year for passenger numbers 

Due to ships sailing at lower occupancy levels at the start of 2022, the number of cruise passengers failed to record a new high. 108,626 visited Porto and the North of Portugal last year, overtaking 2019 by 22.5%. However, this did not surpass 2018, its best year for cruise passenger numbers, which brought in 7% more passengers than last year.

Larger cruise ships arriving

The two cruise terminals welcomed an increased number of larger cruise ships in 2022. Gross tonnage when combined exceeded six million - 56% and 33% more compared to 2019 and 2018, respectively. 

Outlook

Porto Cruise Terminal, a MedCruise member, says it is on track to beat these records again in 2023, with 140 cruise calls currently expected which would bring in almost 180,000 passengers.