2026 Italian Cruise Traffic Forecast
Strong demand, luxury expansion and extended seasons drive growth across Italian ports
Miami, April 14, 2026 – Italy’s cruise sector is set to reach a new milestone in 2026, confirming the strong rebound in global demand. According to new forecasts released by Cemar Agency Network, Italian ports will welcome approximately 15.1 million cruise passengers this year, marking a 2% increase over 2025.
Sergio Senesi
Speaking at Seatrade Cruise Global in Miami, Cemar Agency Network President Sergio Senesi highlighted the sector’s continued expansion and pointed to evolving market dynamics. “We are witnessing sustained growth, but also a shift in the industry,” he said. “The entry of prestigious luxury hospitality brands into the cruise business is attracting a new, high-spending clientele, with positive ripple effects on local economies.”
Operational activity is also on the rise. A total of 5,913 port calls are expected in 2026, up nearly 8% year-on-year, including a growing share of smaller vessels catering to niche and luxury segments. Overall, 185 ships from 58 cruise lines will operate across 77 Italian ports.
Civitavecchia remains Italy’s leading cruise port, handling an estimated 3.78 million passengers, followed by Naples (1.78 million) and Genoa (1.57 million). Other key ports in the top ten include Palermo, Livorno, Savona, Messina, La Spezia, Cagliari and Venice, underscoring the nationwide reach of the industry.
At regional level, Lazio ranks first, accounting for over a quarter of total traffic, ahead of Liguria, Campania and Sicily. Among cruise operators, MSC Group maintains its leading position, followed closely by Carnival Group, Royal Caribbean Group and Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings.
Seasonal peaks are expected in October, May and July, with the busiest single day forecast for May 23, when 35 ships and more than 88,000 passengers will be handled simultaneously across Italian ports.
p style="text-align: justify;">Looking ahead, growth is expected to continue into 2027, with passenger numbers projected to exceed 15.2 million.
Senesi also noted that the gradual extension of the cruise season—partly influenced by the current geopolitical landscape—is playing a key role in supporting growth. At the same time, the introduction of next-generation ships is helping reduce emissions and strengthen environmental sustainability across the Mediterranean.
About Cemar Agency Network
With more than 40 years of experience, Cemar Agency Network is a leading player in the italian cruise industry. Since 1992, it has presented annual forecasts on Italy’s cruise traffic at Seatrade Cruise Global in Miami. Originally focused on large yacht assistance, the company is now a market leader in cruise services, representing 19 major cruise lines in Italy.