The 2024/2025 high cruise season in Madeira has officially ended with record-breaking figures. A total of 734,699 passengers visited the region – an increase of 140,000 compared to the previous season – bringing a direct economic impact of €62.8 million, according to the Ports Administration of the Autonomous Region of Madeira (APRAM).

In a statement, APRAM described the season, which ran from 1 September 2024 to 31 May 2025, as “exceptional.” The organisation highlighted substantial growth not only in passenger numbers but also in crew, port calls, and overall contribution to the local economy.

The number of crew members rose by 26.71%, while the total number of port calls increased by 17.13%. A total of 335 cruise ships docked at Madeira’s ports during the season, up from 254 the previous year, serving both Funchal and Porto Santo.

According to a study by the Funchal Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the average daily spending per passenger or crew member is €61.40, contributing to the nearly €63 million in regional revenue, up from approximately €50.5 million last season.

APRAM president Paulo Cabaço emphasised that this has been “by far the best cruise season for Madeira’s ports” and forecasted continued growth in the industry. “We closed 2024 with a record number of passengers and crew – 16.65% from 2023 – and the first quarter of this year also showed strong growth,” she said.

She also noted that Madeira’s cruise growth has exceeded 20%, well above the global market average of less than 10%.