167 EUROPE: INTERVIEW Growing cruise sustainably Klaus Bondam describes to Rebecca Gibson how investments in shore power and efforts to extend the season are helping Cruise Baltic increase year-round cruise tourism Demand for Baltic Sea cruises is surging. The latest market review from Cruise Baltic indicates the total number of cruise guests, port calls and turnarounds at its member ports in Denmark, Estonia, Germany, Finland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Poland and Sweden increased 12.3 per cent, 12.8 per cent and 5.6 per cent respectively between 2024 and 2025. Forecasts suggest they will rise a further 9.2 per cent, 10.7 per cent and 7 per cent in 2026, and continue growing beyond that. “The Baltic Sea experienced a setback due to Covid-19, but the numbers have now returned to pre-pandemic levels, and forecasts indicate a shift to more stable growth in the future,” says Klaus Bondam, director of Cruise Baltic, attributing the uptick to multiple factors. “Cruise Lines are returning capacity to Northern Europe and guests are looking for more authentic, nature-based and culturally rich experiences,” he says. “The Baltic region offers nine countries located within a short distance of each other, giving guests access to a range of diverse destinations, each with its own unique story to tell.” Seasonality patterns are changing too. “We’re seeing a high increase in calls during the off-season months, including over Christmas,” says Bondam, crediting the growth to members’ efforts to communicate the “many unique experiences and traditions” available outside the peak season. “Even when the weather is cold, the welcome is warm,” he says. “The destinations offer cosiness, magical snowy landscapes, breathtaking nature and outstanding cultural experiences. This spreads tourism more evenly throughout the year, creating a better balance for local communities and a positive economic impact.” Crucially, growth isn’t limited to bigger ports and capital cities. “Demand is spreading across a wide range of destinations, which helps create a more balanced and resilient regional cruise market,” says Bondam. Cruise Baltic and its members aim to convert this momentum into long term, sustainable growth. “We continue to invest heavily in infrastructure that reduces environmental impact and improves the guest experience,” says Bondam. “A major priority is shore power, with significant investments taking place across the region to enable more ships to connect to local electricity grids while in port and reduce emissions. This is an important step towards building a more sustainable cruise industry, while also strengthening the region as a responsible and innovative destination.” While sustainability investments are shaping the region’s future, its greatest strength remains the experiences it offers visitors, says Bondam. “The Baltic is an inexhaustible source of opportunities and experiences. Come for the food, the warmth of the locals or the breathtaking nature – whatever your reason for visiting, you won’t regret it.” “ Whatever your reason for visiting, you won’t regret it” Cruise guests can visit attractions like Högbonden Lighthouse, Sweden’s second-highest lighthouse Photo: Höga Kusten Destinationsutveckling
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