Opinion
By Simon Pitout*
Cyprus’ cruise industry has been impacted by several events of the past few years. The Covid-19 pandemic was a significant setback, bringing operations to a near halt for extended periods. More recently, the geopolitical situation that continues to trouble our region remains disruptive for the industry.
However, the sector – a vital and dynamic pillar of Cyprus’ tourism industry – is now poised for recovery. With it, there is the potential to bring in additional revenue to state coffers, create jobs and establish the island as a year-round destination.
Recovery already underway
The industry’s recovery is already underway. This year, DP World Limassol expects to receive around 140 cruise ships and 160,000 passengers – a marked improvement on 2024, when we welcomed 106 cruises and 109,000 passengers.
The season has kicked off with several vessels calling in the first few months of 2025, while DP World welcomed the inaugural call of Marella Discovery II, on 2 April 2025.
This is the first full ‘home port’ cruise our terminal has seen in several years, with passengers departing from and returning to Limassol every week.
Other cruise lines, including Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, Celebrity, TUI Cruises, RSSC and Mano Maritime will dock in Limassol between April and October, with July and October poised to be the busiest months.
The Cyprus-Greece ferry is also continuing its operations, starting in May. Since its launch in 2022, the ferry has transported over 21,000 passengers, 7,000 cars and 700 pets.
New investments at Limassol port
The state-of-the-art terminal at Limassol already offers cruise lines and passengers a wealth of services, based on DP World Limassol’s high international standards and efficiency. These include smooth boarding and disembarkation procedures, ample parking, retail offerings, cafeterias, and shuttle services.
But this year, DP World Limassol will invest to further elevate the cruise experience. Specifically, we plan to upgrade the terminal’s facilities with new sunshade tents for the summer months and additional X-ray machines to streamline operations and enhance passenger safety.
A vision for the future
The government is in the process of developing a national strategy for cruise tourism, which is set to be finalised in the first half of this year. Its aim is to transform the island into a prime destination in the Eastern Mediterranean.
It’s the right ambition and a great opportunity. The cruise industry is already on the path to recovery. With a strong national strategy and ongoing investment, it will thrive, unlocking new growth opportunities and cementing the island’s position as a regional leader in cruise tourism.
*CEO, DP World Limassol
