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Cartagena is already preparing for a busy spring, with investments like the high-tech X-ray van for cruise passenger checks introduced last month to smooth operations. The port will welcome an exciting lineup of cruise ships from March through June.

 

Small luxury yachts and some of the world's largest vessels will bring thousands of passengers to explore the city's historic streets, Roman Theatre and vibrant waterfront. Local shops, restaurants and guides are set to benefit from the steady influx, building on the boutique cruise success we saw last December.

 

The action began last Monday with the Star Legend docking, but things really hot up from mid-March. On March 17, the Sun Princess arrives with over 5,000 passengers, followed by the Silver Spirit the next day and the Aidabella on March 20 carrying 2,700 travellers. The month peaks on March 28 and 30 with Royal Caribbean's Odyssey of the Seas and Harmony of the Seas, dropping off around 4,000 visitors in just two days. It wraps with the smaller La Belle des Oceans.

 

April looks set to be the busiest. The AIDACosma leads on April 1 with nearly 6,500 on board, then premium names like Seven Seas Splendor and Seven Seas Voyager follow. A standout double call comes on April 6 with Costa Favolosa and Azamara Journey. Expect luxury stops from Emerald Azzurra, Clio and Nautica, plus big crowds on April 22 and 25. The Norwegian Epic closes the month on April 30 with more than 5,000 passengers, staying into the night.

 

May brings triple action right away on May 1: the classic Queen Victoria, Ritz-Carlton's sleek Ilma and modern Celebrity Ascent. Highlights include Explorer of the Seas, Mein Schiff 1, Disney Dream (3,500 passengers) and Cunard's elegant Queen Anne. The AIDACosma returns on May 13, underlining Cartagena's growing pull.

 

June keeps the momentum with Britannia on June 9 and a power duo on June 19: Azamara Journey and Harmony of the Seas. Other calls feature Evrima, Marella Explorer and Arcadia.

 

With spring weather perfect for sightseeing, it's a great time for locals to spot these floating giants and enjoy the buzz they bring to Cartagena.

 

 

Image: wikicommons