The maiden call of the Island Princess on April 13th officially marked the commencement of the 2025 cruise season in Port Taranto (Italy). From April through October, the port is scheduled to handle approximately 124,000 cruise tourists.
The Island Princess, a Coral-class vessel operated by Princess Cruises—a brand within the Carnival Corporation portfolio—has called at Taranto for the first time as part of her current world cruise itinerary. This global voyage includes 51 ports of call across 6 continents, encompassing 26 countries and multiple UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The vessel's arrival positions Taranto as a new addition to a high-profile international itinerary.
For the 2025 season, Taranto is expected to receive 35 cruise ship calls from 7 different operators. Costa Crociere remains the primary partner with 16 scheduled calls by Costa Fascinosa as part of its Eastern Mediterranean routing. Additional confirmed operators include P&O (7 calls), TUI (6), and Azamara (3). Two new entries are also noted: AIDA (1 call) and an American operator currently listed as the “Mystery Cruise,” which will disclose its identity upon arrival on April 21st.
The Port Network Authority of the Ionian Sea reports that cruise operations in Taranto have been actively developed over the past decade. Collaboration with regional stakeholders has contributed to positioning the port as a viable and attractive destination within the Mediterranean cruise circuit. Consistent performance in passenger handling, alongside logistical and security operations, has contributed to increasing cruise line confidence.
Feedback from passengers continues to reflect positively on the destination, particularly regarding its cultural, environmental, and gastronomic offerings. The port's integration into itineraries with high-end and premium cruise operators further underlines its growing strategic relevance.
The 2025 season is anticipated to reinforce the port’s standing in the cruise sector and facilitate continued commercial and tourism growth. The development of cruise traffic is seen as a vector for sustainable economic contribution to both the port and the wider regional economy.