Cartagena is entering its busiest period of the 2026 cruise season, with 93 ships scheduled to call at the port between September and December. October is expected to be the busiest month, with 39 arrivals and around 64,827 passengers. September is due to bring 15 ships, followed by 31 in November and eight in December.

The schedule includes some of the Mediterranean’s largest cruise vessels, including AIDAcosma, Norwegian Escape and Sun Princess. The port welcomed 44 ships between June and August, while Harmony of the Seas brought around 6,410 passengers during its visit on 28 July.

Port Authority president Pedro Pablo Hernández has described 2026 as a historic year for cruises in Cartagena. The port expects around 200 ship calls and more than 285,000 passengers by the end of the year, compared with more than 257,000 in 2025.

A new cruise terminal is also being developed, with plans for improved accessibility and shore-side electricity connections. The technology should allow docked ships to switch off their onboard generators, reducing emissions. The wider aim is to help visitors reach Cartagena’s heritage, restaurants, shops and city centre, supporting businesses and tourism across the Region of Murcia.