Port of Leixões records historic high in cruise ships and passengers in the first half of the year
Compared to the same period in 2023, the Port of Leixões saw a 10% increase in passengers and a 27% rise in ships, marking an all-time high.
Located in Matosinhos, the Port of Leixões is one of the most important and busiest ports in the country. Inaugurated in 1892, it serves as a vital infrastructure for maritime trade and tourism in northern Portugal. Managed by the Administration of the Ports of Douro, Leixões, and Viana do Castelo (APDL), the port has a strategic location near the city of Porto, facilitating the import and export of goods.
Beyond its commercial role, the Port of Leixões is a driving force for economic and social development in the region, significantly contributing to the local economy through job creation and tourism stimulation.
Its robust infrastructure and continuous improvements and expansions ensure that the Port of Leixões remains a crucial pillar in the maritime landscape of Portugal and Europe.
A semester of growth
During the first six months of 2024, Leixões hosted 71 cruise ships and 73,341 passengers, making it the best first semester ever for cruise activity. The Administration of the Ports of Douro, Leixões, and Viana do Castelo (APDL), led by João Pedro Neves, released this information and highlighted the inauguration of seven new stops, bringing the total to 19 by the end of the year.
The exceptional performance in April and May was key to the positive semester results, with 45 ships and nearly 46,000 passengers in those two months. In April alone, more than 24,000 passengers were recorded, representing a 61% growth compared to the same month last year.
Passenger origins and future prospects
Most passengers who disembarked in Leixões came from the United Kingdom (36%), followed by Germany (29%) and the United States (23%). In addition to passengers, the Leixões Cruise Terminal also welcomed 35,000 crew members, with the APDL forecasting that the Matosinhos port will reach a historical record in cruises and passengers for 2024.
The APDL has scheduled 162 stops by the end of the year, estimating over 150,000 passengers and around 70,000 crew members.
The Port of Leixões has demonstrated remarkable performance in the cruise sector, setting new records and establishing itself as a key entry point for tourists from various parts of the world.
The number of ships and passengers has significantly increased, with optimistic prospects for the rest of the year. Port of Leixões solidifies its position as a reference port in the international cruise scene.
Source: Publituris