68 Photo: Enapor REPORT Preparing for growth Cruise ports worldwide are investing in new berths, larger terminals and shore power to keep pace with fleet and passenger growth. Alex Smith reports The cruise industry continues to expand, with a record 37.2 million passengers sailing in 2025, according to the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) 2026 State of the Cruise Industry Report. The report also identifies 60 new ocean-going ships on order for delivery between 2026 and 2037, representing an investment of $71 billion and adding approximately 193,000 lower berths. As these larger vessels arrive and passenger volumes rise, cruise ports are investing in infrastructure to keep pace, from new and extended berths to larger terminals, parking, passenger-processing systems and shoreside electricity. These investments are helping ports accommodate bigger ships, manage higher passenger flows and support the transition towards lower-emission operations. Flåm Port in Norway is strengthening its cruise infrastructure with a 75-metre quay extension, which will increase the berth from 110 to 185 metres. Due for completion by the end of October 2026, the upgraded quay will provide greater flexibility for larger cruise vessels, improved passenger and crew logistics, and safer, more efficient berthing operations. The new quay is also a step towards the port’s next major investment: a shore power supply system, scheduled to be operational from 2027. Powered by locally produced hydropower, the system will allow compatible cruise ships to shut down their engines, reducing emissions, noise and local air pollution. In France, Le Havre Croisières is taking a combined approach to increasing terminal capacity, adapting berths and developing shore power infrastructure. Its new three-terminal facility is designed to handle up to 13,500 passengers per day, including simultaneous calls, while berth upgrades are supporting the accommodation of larger vessels and evolving operational requirements. In parallel, Haropa Port is equipping all three cruise berths with shore power, allowing compatible ships to switch off their engines while alongside and reduce local emissions. Further south, in Spain, the Port of Cartagena is strengthening its cruise infrastructure with a new cruise terminal designed to improve passenger flows, accessibility and operational efficiency, alongside the implementation of shore power infrastructure. The investments will enable visiting cruise ships to reduce emissions while supporting passenger movement between Mindelo Cruise Port in Cape Verde was inaugurated in 2025
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