Cartagena heads to Miami cruise fair with record passenger numbers for 2026

Alongside record forecasts for 2026, Cartagena is also presenting plans for a new cruise terminal and ongoing work along the waterfront

The port of Cartagena is once again in Miami to promote itself at one of the most important events in the global cruise calendar. The focus is on meeting cruise companies, strengthening existing relationships, and keeping Cartagena firmly on the map for Mediterranean cruise routes.

The Port Authority of Cartagena is attending Seatrade Cruise Global, which runs until April 16 2026 and brings together ports, cruise lines and tourism organisations from around the world. It is where future cruise schedules are created and where destinations try to secure new calls for the seasons ahead.
Cartagena is joining other Spanish ports under the 'Ports of Spain' banner, alongside other Spanish ports, but with a clear focus on its own growth, recent investment and plans for future infrastructure linked to cruise traffic.

Cruise traffic in Cartagena has been growing steadily over the last few years, and the outlook for 2026 points to another record year. After more than 257,000 passengers in 2025, the port is expecting to pass 285,000 in 2026, with close to 200 cruise ship calls.

If confirmed, it would be the strongest year yet for the city's cruise sector. The growth is being linked to long-term planning, investment in port facilities, and closer work with cruise operators to keep Cartagena on regular itineraries.

They are also looking to bring in more visitors from the United States and Canada, as Cartagena is still relatively unknown there as a cruise stop.

New terminal and changes along the waterfront

An important part of the discussions in Miami is the planned new cruise terminal. The idea is to improve how passengers move through the port, making arrivals and departures smoother and allowing space for larger cruise ships.

This forms part of a major transformation along the waterfront known as 'De Faro a Faro', which is gradually changing the look and use of the port area. They want to open it up more, improve public spaces, and create a better link between the port and the city, without losing its working role.

One of Cartagena's strengths is how close everything is to the port. The historic centre is only a short walk from where cruise ships dock, which makes it easy for visitors to explore without needing transport or long transfers. Roman heritage, museums, the seafront and local food spots are all within a short distance.

The combination of history, size and accessibility is one of the reasons it continues to do well with cruise lines looking for easy, walkable destinations.

At the same time, there is a focus on managing growth, including shore power systems so ships can plug into electricity in port instead of running their engines.

At Seatrade Cruise Global in Miami, Cartagena looks to build on an already strong year and keep the momentum going. 

Images:  Puerto de Cartagena