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Seville’s unique inland port is continuing to strengthen its position on the cruise map, with new figures showing a clear rise in both passengers and ship visits over the past year. According to data from the Port Authority, more than 23,800 cruise passengers visited the city in 2025, an increase of 11.7 percent, alongside 82 port calls, up by 9.3 percent.

 

The numbers mark a significant shift compared to a decade ago, when just 23 cruise calls were planned for 2015. The steady growth reflects a wider trend already seen elsewhere in Andalusia, where ports are reporting strong demand from cruise operators and passengers alike.

 

Looking ahead, the 2026 season is already taking shape. The Almazara Journey is scheduled to be the first cruise ship to arrive, docking at the Muelle de las Delicias on Wednesday February 26. The same vessel will return to Seville on March 12, 27 and 31. In total, 47 cruise ships are currently booked to call at the port during the season, in addition to regular visits from the Belle cruise line operating out of Cadiz.

 

The season is due to conclude on December 29, when the Vidanta World’s Elegant docks at the Muelle de Tablada. Many of the ships planned for this year will be familiar faces. These include the luxury Azamara Quest, a boutique vessel carrying around 600 to 700 passengers, as well as the Star Legend, which measures 135 metres in length and accommodates roughly 330 people on board. The Silver Shadow, which previously visited Seville in 2021, also returns, with capacity for 388 passengers and more than 300 crew.

 

Behind the scenes, the Port Authority has been laying the groundwork for long-term growth. At the end of 2025, management of the cruise and megayacht lines was awarded to Global Ports and Ocean Platform Marinas, a move designed to boost the sector over the next 25 years. Together, the two companies plan to invest more than five million euros, including the development of a new terminal within a historic port building and improvements to docking areas and passenger flow.

 

The appeal of Seville lies in its location. As Spain’s only inland port, ships can dock right in the city centre, just a short walk from landmarks such as the Cathedral, the Royal Alcázar and the Torre del Oro. For high-end cruise lines, it is a rare chance to offer guests immediate access to one of Spain’s most iconic historic cities, straight from the ship’s gangway.

 

 

Image: Susann Mielke/Pixabay