Ports & destinations

Port of Taranto hosts Windstar's President’s Mystery Cruise

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: Ports & Destinations Ports & Destinations; Published: 25 April 2025 25 April 2025

The Port of Taranto finally revealed itself as the first port in the context of the President’s Mystery Cruise by Windstar Cruises, which saw the Star Legend arrive on the morning of April 22nd in the port of Taranto.

This luxury superyacht, a true jewel of the seas belonging to the American company Windstar Cruises, touched the port of Taranto for the first time as part of a ‘secret’ itinerary in the Mediterranean.

Until two days before was known as a Mystery Cruise because the cruise line chose to reveal the itinerary only 36 hours before departure, making the event even more special and surprising. A true journey of adventure and discovery for the exclusive group of passengers on board the Star Legend: the ship, in fact, hosts the top management of the Company and a representation of international media from the cruise sector, celebrating the 40th anniversary of Windstar Cruises.

The traditional maiden call ceremony hosted on board by Captain Pedro Montes Pinto saw the participation of a delegation of institutions and port operators, who had the chance to meet the President of Windstar Cruises, Chris Prelog and his management team. The ceremony was enriched by a colorful music and dance show of “pizzica”, a traditional regional dance show offered to passengers to make them know and appreciate the peculiarities of the local culture.

This call represents the outcome of a marketing campaign launched by the Port of Taranto in previous years and which, in 2024, also saw Windstar executives among the guests of a familiarization trip organized by the Port Network Authority of the Ionian Sea and Taranto Cruise Port. This initiative is part of the Port Network Authority’s strategy aiming at promoting a sustainable cruise business that encourages the growth of the local community of suppliers and tourism operators. The Taranto destination has been included in Windstar’s itineraries in both 2025 and 2026.

Tours included the whitewashed town of Ostuni, a wine tasting in a “masseria” (ancient farmhouse) hosting a unique vineyard, as well as must-see destinations such as UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Alberobello, famous for its “trulli” houses, and Matera, one of the most ancient cities in the world where the prehistoric stone dwellings called “sassi” can still be visited.

Carolyn Spencer Brown of Cruise Media LLC is currently onboard.

Port Charlottetown welcomes first ship of 2025 cruise season

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: Ports & Destinations Ports & Destinations; Published: 19 April 2025 19 April 2025

Port Charlottetown officially kicks off the 2025 cruise season today with the arrival of its first ship – marking the start of what is set to be the second-largest season in its history. This milestone reflects Prince Edward Island’s growing status as a premier travel destination on the Canada-New England itinerary.

This year, the Port is expected to welcome more than 131,000 passengers and 57,800 crew, including six inaugural calls and two overnight stays. The season will run from April 19 to November 3, surpassing the historic 2019 season and coming in just behind the record-breaking numbers of 2024.

The early start to the cruise season highlights increasing demand for Prince Edward Island as a spring and summer destination, helping extend the cruise tourism calendar beyond the traditional fall foliage period and creating new opportunities for local operators and businesses.

“The return of cruise season is always an exciting time for our community,” said Kelly Murphy, Director of Cruise Development at Port Charlottetown. “This year’s schedule reflects the growing global demand for Prince Edward Island as a must-visit destination on the Canada-New England itinerary. It’s a testament to the strength of our tourism industry and the dedicated people behind it – our operators, businesses, and community partners—who help create unforgettable experiences for every guest who comes ashore.”

Coady Campbell, owner and operator of The Water Prince Corner Shop, echoed that enthusiasm: “The cruise season is a highlight for us every year. It brings so many visitors eager to experience the best of PEI, and it’s always a pleasure to be part of that journey,” said Campbell. “For us, it’s not just about serving a meal – it’s about sharing our Island’s story and the spirit of hospitality that defines us. Every season, we see the lasting impact these visitors have on our community and economy, and we’re proud to play a part.”

Cruise visitors may come to Prince Edward Island for its iconic red cliffs, sandy beaches, and vibrant culinary scene—but what truly leaves a lasting impression is the warmth of its people.

“What sets PEI apart is the feeling visitors get the moment they arrive – it’s genuine, it’s warm, and it’s lasting,” Murphy added. “That spirit of hospitality is woven into everything we do. It’s what turns a visit into a memory, and it’s why we’ve become a leader in tourism. We’re incredibly proud to share that with visitors from around the world once again this season.”

U.S. Virgin Islands makes a bold impression at Seatrade Cruise Global 2025

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: Ports & Destinations Ports & Destinations; Published: 16 April 2025 16 April 2025

The U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism concluded a highly successful week at Seatrade Cruise Global 2025, the cruise industry’s leading annual event, held in Miami, Florida. With a focus on strengthening partnerships, showcasing the territory’s unique offerings, and elevating its cruise tourism strategy, the USVI delegation left a lasting impression on global cruise leaders, stakeholders, and attendees.

The U.S. Virgin Islands delegation began the week with a welcome reception – a Caribbean BBQ hosted by Governor Albert Bryan Jr. at the Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA) headquarters. The event, sponsored by the Department of Tourism, set the tone for a week of connection and collaboration. Cruise executives, partners, and media were treated to authentic Virgin Islands hospitality and cuisine in a festive atmosphere that celebrated the territory’s vibrant culture and growing role in the global cruise industry.

Throughout the conference, Governor Bryan and Commissioner Boschulte held a series of high-level, productive meetings with leading cruise lines, including Disney Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean International. Discussions centered around itinerary planning, infrastructure improvements, guest experience enhancements, and sustainability efforts—all aimed at expanding cruise offerings and increasing calls to St. Thomas, St. Croix, and St. John.

Cruise tourism to the U.S. Virgin Islands continues to grow, with passenger arrivals reaching 1.7 million in 2024 – up 90,000 from the previous year. Projections indicate 1.8 million arrivals in 2025 and 1.9 million in 2026. St. Thomas and St. John led the way with 542,071 passengers at Crown Bay and 983,862 at WICO, while St. Croix welcomed 169,228 at the AAMF port. The Department of Tourism remains focused on sustaining this momentum through strategic planning and strong industry partnerships.

“Seatrade Cruise Global provides an unmatched platform for dialogue with our cruise partners,” said Commissioner Boschulte. “We came to the table with a clear vision for growth and innovation in cruise tourism, and the interest and enthusiasm from our partners have been extremely encouraging.”

In addition to leadership meetings, the Department of Tourism team was active on the tradeshow floor, where they conducted dozens of industry engagements and introduced attendees to the authentic spirit of the USVI. The USVI booth became a standout attraction, buzzing with cultural energy thanks to live performances from steel pan musicians, Moko Jumbies, and traditional dancers. Staff also distributed branded giveaways that kept the USVI top of mind for potential visitors and industry representatives alike.

The USVI’s presence at Seatrade underscored its commitment to balancing economic development with cultural integrity. From infrastructure investment to community-based tourism experiences, the territory is focused on delivering a cruise product that is both competitive and uniquely Virgin Islands.

“We’re not just selling a destination – we’re sharing our story,” adds Commissioner Boschulte. “Our islands offer unmatched beauty, but it’s our people, culture, and authenticity that truly make us a world-class destination for cruise travelers.”

With momentum from Seatrade Cruise Global 2025, the USVI is poised for continued growth in cruise tourism, fueled by cross-industry thought strategy, strong partnerships, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

International cruise season starts in Helsinki next week

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: Ports & Destinations Ports & Destinations; Published: 18 April 2025 18 April 2025

A definite sign of an upcoming summer is the arrival of international cruise ships. The cruise season in Helsinki opens with Ponant’s Le Champlain, arriving at the South Harbour in the morning of 21 April 2025. The season is expected to be long, as the last ship will visit the city in mid-December.

A pleasant summer lies ahead: 97 ship visits have been scheduled and, on average, every sixth ship will stay overnight in the city. Around 140,000 international cruise visitors are expected during the season.

The busiest cruise days of the summer will be 9 July with five ships and 28 July with four ships.

There will also be four ships visiting the city for the first time.

“Cruise guests are introduced to the essence of Finnishness as soon as they set foot on the Hernesaari cruise quays, as they are greeted by none other than Santa Claus himself,” says Cruise Manager Jukka Haarni from the Port of Helsinki.

“Additionally, there is an easy opportunity to experience the local sauna culture and book a proper steam session in a wood-heated container sauna.”

And when curiosity extends beyond the cruise port, getting around is made easier by the new service starting this summer from the Hernesaari water bus quay to central Helsinki. “Operating from May to September, the water bus offers cruise guests a convenient and pleasant way to reach the city’s services and attractions,” Haarni says with delight.

Photo: Windstar's Star Legend in Helsinki. Photo credit: Teijo Niemela

San Juan Cruise Port highlights $42 million in recent infrastructure improvements at Seatrade Cruise Global

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: Ports & Destinations Ports & Destinations; Published: 13 April 2025 13 April 2025

San Juan Cruise Port (SJCP), operated by Global Ports Holding (GPH), reaffirmed its status as the Caribbean’s leading cruise port during Seatrade Cruise Global 2025 in Miami. The dynamic port operator hosted a special press conference for key stakeholders at the Global Ports Holding booth, promoting recent developments at SJCP including key investments in operational and infrastructure needs. SJCP was also featured prominently at the GPH booth and earned the cover story of GPH News Spring 2025 magazine for the second consecutive year.

SJCP continues to demonstrate strong upward momentum, making measurable strides in increasing both cruise line activity and passenger volume. Early 2025 figures show a 10% increase in passenger traffic, with 2025 projections indicating a further growth of nearly 20%. This growth reflects the port’s strengthened partnerships with cruise operators, improved operational capacity, and a renewed focus on San Juan as a key embarkation point in the Caribbean, also highlighting the port’s growing relevance in the regional cruise network and its capacity to scale as demand increases.

Among the key updates shared at Seatrade was the near completion of Phase 1 of the Panamerican Piers modernization project, in which $42m has been invested as of last month. This phase represents a significant step in SJCP’s broader infrastructure plan, aimed at elevating safety standards, improving operational efficiency, and preparing the port to receive the newest generation of cruise vessels.

In addition to the Panamerican upgrades, repair work at Pier 3 is progressing steadily. Replacement of the mooring dolphin on the west side of the Pier is underway, as part of the strategy to strengthen maritime infrastructure and ensure full compliance with evolving technical requirements by regulatory authorities.

The port’s progress reflects the strength of its collaboration with public and private stakeholders. During the presentation, notable leaders joined SJCP and GPH in highlighting these efforts, including Clarisa Jiménez, President & CEO of the Puerto Rico Hotel & Tourism Association (PRHTA) and Crystal Bell, Director of Air and Cruise Access, Puerto Rico Tourism Company.

This event was a testament to the power of a strong public-private partnership, where government, industry, and community work hand in hand in a unified alliance to achieve outstanding results for Puerto Rico. The presentation closed with “coquito” tastings and a vibrant live performance by local “pleneros”, highlighting San Juan’s rich cultural heritage and reinforcing the port’s deep local roots.

Mehmet Kutman, Chairman and CEO of Global Ports Holding, commented on the positive, expanding relationship between San Juan Cruise Port and its key partners. "Under the leadership of our General Manager, Clarivette Diaz, San Juan Cruise Port's growth and expansion exemplify the power of collaboration between the private and public sectors. By working together, we can unlock unparalleled opportunities that drive economic growth, enhance infrastructure, and foster a sustainable and thriving tourism industry. This partnership is essential to ensuring that San Juan becomes a leading destination, meeting the needs of our passengers, local communities, and stakeholders."

With major infrastructure milestones on track and projected passenger volume increase, SJCP is positioned for long-term growth. Upcoming phases of development will further expand capacity and support the arrival of larger, next-generation cruise ships – securing San Juan’s role as a significant player in the Caribbean cruise market and a driver of economic opportunity for Puerto Rico.

General Manager Clarivette Díaz stated: “This transformation is not only about modernizing San Juan Cruise Port – it’s about reinforcing Puerto Rico’s standing as a strategic port of call in the global cruise industry. The economic impact will be significant and lasting and we’re just getting started.