Cruise summit opens in Las Palmas

The cruise industry has gathered at the Port of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria for Seatrade Cruise Med 2026, which opened on Wednesday, 16 September. Shipping companies, port authorities, destinations, tour operators, shipyards, terminals and service firms are taking part in the Mediterranean sector meeting.

Europa Press

Gustavo Santana, president of the state port authority Puertos del Estado, used the opening to underline the role of Spanish ports in international cruising. He said the country’s ports were pursuing more varied port calls and tourism that is greener, smarter and more considerate of cities and their surroundings.

Inside one of Europe’s cruise ports

The Port Authority of Las Palmas said hosting the event at the port gives delegates a direct view of passenger operations and the experience around passenger transit. It describes the capital’s port as one of Europe’s leading cruise traffic hubs.

Emma Bond, global events director at Seatrade Cruise, joined the opening alongside Global Ports Holding chief operating officer Stephen Xuereb and Beatriz Calzada, president of Puertos de Las Palmas. Canary Islands public works councillor Pablo Rodríguez, Gran Canaria Island Council second vice-president Teodoro Sosa and Las Palmas de Gran Canaria mayor Carolina Darias also attended.

Growth and long-term impact on the agenda

The gathering links ports, destinations, shipping companies and suppliers, with the aim of sharing knowledge, building relationships and identifying business opportunities.

Its programme examines cruise growth, the changing Mediterranean and neighbouring sea destinations, passenger experience and the industry’s long-term impact.

Cruise summit opens in Las Palmas as industry meets

Inside one of Europe’s cruise ports

Growth and long-term impact on the agenda