Copenhagen Mälmö Port (CMP) has solidified its position as a premier European cruise destination, celebrating an impressive 2024 season and setting ambitious goals for 2025. With nearly 1 million cruise passengers visiting Copenhagen, Visby, and Malmö in 2024, the port exceeded expectations and showcased its capacity for sustainable tourism growth. Looking ahead, CMP aims to surpass the 1 million mark in 2025, propelled by enhanced infrastructure, strategic collaborations, and a commitment to environmentally responsible practices.
2024: A Year of Milestones and Recognition
CMP’s cruise operations in 2024 witnessed remarkable achievements, with 988,000 passengers across Copenhagen, Visby, and Malmö. Breaking down the figures, Copenhagen welcomed over 818,000 guests, Visby hosted nearly 170,000, and Malmö added 1,700. 385 ship calls were recorded across the three ports, including 106 turn-around calls in Copenhagen. Notably, Copenhagen hosted cruise ships every month of the year for the first time, reinforcing its status as an all-year cruise destination.
Visby, too, extended its cruise season beyond expectations, receiving calls from April through October and a festive return in December for holiday cruises. The deployment of newer, more efficient ships to the region led to numerous maiden calls—nine in Copenhagen and eleven in Visby—underscoring the Baltic region’s appeal among cruise operators.
Copenhagen’s achievements were not unnoticed, as the city received the prestigious World Travel Award for Europe’s Leading Cruise Port 2024. German tourists represented the largest group of cruise guests in both Copenhagen and Visby, with Europeans dominating the passenger demographics.
2025: Shattering Records and Strengthening Sustainability
Building on the momentum of 2024, CMP anticipates over 1 million cruise passengers in 2025, spread across an impressive 403 ship calls. Copenhagen expects 850,000 passengers on 295 calls, while Visby anticipates 172,000 passengers on 105 calls. Additionally, 14 maiden calls are projected, reflecting the growing interest of cruise operators in the Baltic region.
Copenhagen will remain a hub of activity, hosting 107 turn-around calls and continuing to serve as a key regional transport and tourism hub. Passengers embarking or disembarking in Copenhagen contribute significantly to the city’s economy, spending on local accommodations, dining, and attractions.
“While we are extremely satisfied with our record-breaking year in 2024, 2025 promises to be even more dynamic,” stated Luis De Carvalho, Commercial Cruise Director at Copenhagen Mälmö Port. “The continued increase in calls and passengers, combined with the inauguration of Copenhagen’s advanced shore-power facility, highlights our commitment to sustainable tourism and the economic vitality of our local communities.”
Sustainability at the Forefront
A cornerstone of CMP’s 2025 vision is sustainability. One of Europe’s largest shore-power facilities is set to become operational in Copenhagen, featuring five connection points at Oceankaj and Langelinie. This innovation will enable cruise ships to turn off their auxiliary engines while docked, significantly reducing emissions. CMP expects the facility to reach full capacity by 2028, further cementing the port’s reputation as a leader in sustainable maritime operations.
The historic Langelinie terminal, undergoing extensive renovations, will be fully operational in 2025, with shore power and direct sewage connections. These updates balance modern sustainability standards with respect for the terminal’s architectural heritage.
CMP’s overarching goal of achieving net-zero CO2 emissions in its operations by 2025 demonstrates its unwavering commitment to combating climate change. The port’s collaborative efforts through initiatives like Cruise Denmark, Cruise Baltic, and Cruise Europe continue strengthening the region’s position as a hub for responsible cruise tourism.
Copenhagen to Host Cruise Europe Annual Conference
In May 2025, Copenhagen will host the prestigious Cruise Europe annual conference, a symbolic return to the city where the organization held its inaugural meeting in 1992. The event is expected to draw global industry leaders, showcasing the city’s advanced infrastructure, commitment to sustainability, and vibrant cruise culture.
Economic Impact and Regional Collaboration
The robust cruise activity at CMP generates significant economic benefits for Copenhagen, Visby, and Malmö. Turn-around passengers, who spend more time in port cities, contribute to local businesses and help sustain jobs in the hospitality, retail, and transportation sectors.
CMP’s strategic partnerships with stakeholders across Denmark and the Baltic region ensure a coordinated approach to sustainable tourism growth. Through Cruise Baltic and Cruise Europe, CMP continues to advocate for policies that enhance the visitor experience while minimizing the environmental footprint of cruise operations.
2025: A Transformative Year Ahead
As CMP embarks on its 2025 journey, the port’s blend of operational excellence, sustainable innovation, and collaborative strategy positions it as a global leader in cruise tourism. With record-breaking passenger numbers, advanced shore-power facilities, and a continued commitment to sustainability, CMP is setting a new standard for the future of cruising in Europe.
For more information, visit Copenhagen Mälmö Port or explore insights on sustainable cruising through Cruise Baltic.
Written by: Bridget Gomez
