Hamburg’s Cruise Season 2024: Record Numbers and Highlights for 2025

Bild von Karsten Bergmann auf Pixabay
Hamburg celebrated an impressive cruise year in 2024, with a total of 266 cruise ship calls. Among them were both large ocean liners carrying thousands of guests and smaller river cruise ships. Passenger numbers increased by 100,000 compared to the previous year, allowing the city to welcome approximately 1.3 million passengers.

Looking ahead to 2025, Hamburg anticipates further growth in visitor numbers. The cruise season will feature several exciting inaugural ship calls. The Pacific World from the Japanese cruise line Japan Grace will make its first visit to Hamburg. Additionally, the Emerald Princess, operated by Princess Cruises, will dock in the city for the first time. Another highlight is the arrival of the Star Pride, a luxury ship from Windstar Cruises. These inaugural calls are always a major draw for cruise enthusiasts and add a special maritime flair to the port.

In addition to these highlights, two major events will attract visitors to Hamburg in 2025. From May 9 to 11, the city will once again celebrate the Hamburg Port Anniversary, one of the largest maritime festivals in the world. Following this, the Hamburg Cruise Days will take place from September 12 to 14. This unique event, dedicated to the world of cruising, offers an unforgettable experience. Visitors can look forward to the iconic Blue Port illumination, a stunning departure parade of cruise ships, and a wide range of exciting activities.

The event area will stretch from the Landungsbrücken piers to the Elbphilharmonie, featuring a diverse program that delights both families and avid cruise fans. From maritime spectacles to culinary highlights and live entertainment, Hamburg will once again transform into the global stage for the cruise industry during these days.