The Port of Alicante is set to expand its berthing capacity for mega-cruise ships and has officially entered the bid to host the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) summit. The project includes the installation of two water dolphins at Pier 14, increasing the available mooring space for large vessels. This expansion, requiring an investment of over one million euros, will be funded by the Port Authority.
EXPANSION PROJECT DETAILS
The planned improvements will enhance the port’s ability to accommodate multiple cruise ships simultaneously, supporting the growing number of annual passengers. The installation of the water dolphins—also known as “Duques de Alba”—at Pier 14 will facilitate the docking of vessels carrying over 5,000 passengers. The tendering process for this project is expected to commence within the year, with completion projected to take two years due to public bidding procedures and implementation requirements.
The announcement was made by the President of the Port Authority, Luis Rodríguez, during the electoral assembly of the Alicante Costa Blanca Tourism and Cruises Association (ALCTC). He emphasized that these developments align with the port’s long-term strategy to solidify its position among Spain’s top cruise destinations. The Port of Alicante has already surpassed Vigo in passenger numbers, placing it in the country’s top 10 cruise ports.
RECORD-BREAKING CRUISE ARRIVALS
The port has seen consistent growth in cruise traffic, setting consecutive annual records. In 2024, it welcomed nearly 237,000 cruise passengers, with projections for 2025 expected to reach similar figures. A total of 103 cruise calls have already been confirmed for 2025, including 20 homeport operations by MSC Cruises and nine additional stopovers. Unscheduled arrivals from other ports are also anticipated.
BID TO HOST THE 2026 CLIA SUMMIT
Building on its growth strategy, Alicante is positioning itself as a key player in the global cruise industry. The city has submitted its candidacy to host the 2026 CLIA summit, in collaboration with the City Council and the Provincial Council. If successful, the event would attract representatives from leading cruise companies, establishing Alicante as a central hub for industry discussions and networking.
The 2025 CLIA summit was held in Rotterdam from March 12 to 14. According to Port Authority sources, Alicante is well-positioned to take over as the next host, potentially bringing significant economic and tourism benefits to the region. This initiative follows an earlier unsuccessful bid to host the Seatrade Cruise Med, which was awarded to Málaga for its third consecutive edition.
With these ambitious projects, Alicante continues to strengthen its reputation as a premier cruise destination, fostering economic growth and tourism development.
Image source: Flickr
