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Cartagena cruises into November with record arrivals setting the pace
Twelve cruise ships set to dock, adding to a booming 2025 season for the historic port
Following a spectacular October that saw over 50,000 cruise passengers and 33 ship visits docking at the port of Cartagena, the city continues to ride the wave of growth as November begins with twelve cruise ships scheduled to arrive, carrying more than 18,000 tourists.Building on the impressive figures reported at the end of last month, Cartagena has launched into November with a strong start as twelve cruise ships bring more than 18,000 visitors to the city in just the first few days. This momentum reflects Cartagena’s growing appeal as a top Mediterranean cruise destination during peak seasons such as April, October, and now November.
Monday alone welcomed three cruise liners docking at Juan Sebastián de Elcano port, unloading over 5,000 passengers. The Marella Voyager and Oosterdam accounted for the majority, carrying 2,700 and 2,400 visitors respectively.
Tuesday promised another busy day with the Marella Explorer, Costa Pacifica, and the Corinthian arriving, collectively bringing around 4,800 tourists. Midweek sees a change of pace with the arrival of two more exclusive vessels, La Belle des Océans and Wind Star, with just 300 passengers between them.
Saturday is set to be a highlight, with the Norwegian Epic, one of the largest ships of the week with 5,074 passengers, arriving alongside Azamara Onward and Seven Seas Grandeur, bringing a further 1,600 tourists.
November traditionally marks one of Cartagena’s busiest months for cruise arrivals. This year’s schedule predicts a total of 29 ships and over 45,000 international visitors who come to immerse themselves in the city’s rich historical heritage, exceptional gastronomy, and beautiful beaches.
Nationally, Spain’s cruise sector continues to thrive, with over 3,600 ships and 10.2 million passengers recorded between January and September: up by 17.5% and 11.5% respectively from 2014. Barcelona leads as the country’s top cruise port, followed by the Balearic Islands and Las Palmas. Other major ports include Santa Cruz de Tenerife and Valencia, rounding out the top five.
For Cartagena, the first nine months saw 173,657 cruise passengers arriving on 118 ships, marking almost a 30% increase in visitors and a nearly 33% growth in vessel calls compared to the same period in 2024.
With new docking facilities expanding capacity and local tourism infrastructure thriving, Cartagena is on track to solidify its place as one of the Mediterranean’s premier cruise hubs in 2025 and beyond.
Both visitors and locals alike can look forward to a vibrant season filled with culture, sunshine, and the unique charm that makes Cartagena so special.
You might also be interested in: Bump in cruise liners brings record numbers to Alicante this October
Image: alvarode/Pixabay
Address
Avn. Gran Via de La Manga Calle L, 30. 30380 La Manga del Mar Menor, San JavierTel: +34 711042823 / +34 711046210
The stylish Colina del Emperador is uniquely situated on the shores of the Mar Menor
Situated between the Mediterranean Sea and the Mar Menor, Europe’s largest saltwater lagoon, Colina del Emperador is a family-run boutique hotel offering style, a friendly atmosphere and unbeatable views.
Overlooking the pristine waters, the villa has been completely renovated but retains all the classic charm of a Spanish casa. Colina del Emperador offers 5 double bedrooms, including the newly added opulent Emperor Suite (40m2), an intimate and personalised experience for up to 10 guests, as well as a generous breakfast, free tea and coffee facilities and a range of tapas and snacks.
There is also free breakfast offered with every booking made directly via their website, www.colinadelemperador.com.
Lunch and dinner can also be arranged by booking with staff before 12pm on the day.
Getting there
The closest airport is Corvera Airport, Murcia (RMU) or you may use Alicante Airport, Elche (ALC).
By car, drive to Cabo de Palos and enter the La Manga strip from the south. The best way to find Colina del Emperador is by entering the name of the hotel directly into Google Maps and following the directions from here (in-car SatNavs don’t always get it right).
Staff will also be happy to arrange a pick-up service for you but this needs to be arranged in advance.
Go to the Colina del Emperador website to book your next stay in the Mar Menor.
Follow Colina del Emperador on Instagram: @colinadelemperador
Contact Spanish News Today: Editorial 966 260 896 /
Office 968 018 268
