The Balearic Islands closed the first nine months of 2024 as the community that has received the most cruise ships, with 584 vessels, 2.5% more than in the same period of 2023. This increase reflects the strategic importance of Balearic ports in cruise traffic, in a context in which Spain aims to beat last year’s passenger record. According to data released by Puertos del Estado, the country has received more than 9.1 million cruise passengers up to September, up 6.2% compared to the previous year, although September registered a slight decrease of 4.8% compared to the same month in 2023. Barcelona and the Balearic Islands are positioned as the two most prominent destinations in the country, with more than 2 million cruise passengers in the Balearic Islands, 2% more than in 2023. For its part, Barcelona has exceeded 2.8 million passengers, consolidating its leadership in cruise tourism at the national level.
General traffic growth
Overall passenger traffic in Spanish ports, which includes both cruise passengers and passengers in transport regime, has reached 31.9 million between January and September, registering an increase of 3.6% year-on-year. This growth shows that, despite the challenges and regulatory adjustments, the maritime sector continues to expand, consolidating Spain as a benchmark in cruise tourism at European level.
