Discover the Allure of the Roses Sets Sail: Costa Brava Witnesses Its Busiest Cruise Season Ever on Biddex: A Closer Look

Published in

Sunday 11 May 2025

Roses Sets Sail: Costa Brava Witnesses Its Busiest Cruise Season Ever

On April 25, 2025, the city of Roses, located in Spain's Costa Brava region, announced the launch of its 2025 cruise season with the arrival of the luxurious French vessel L'Austral, operated by Ponant, marking its inaugural visit to this new port.

The event generated significant tourism buzz, characterized by a substantial increase in visitor numbers and a reinforced role for the region as a premier destination for luxury hospitality cruises in the Mediterranean.

Season Kicks Off with Grand Welcome

The reception ceremony for L'Austral featured a ceremonial exchange of commemorative plaques between officials from Costa Brava Cruise Ports and the ship's captain, including the presentation of local products as a symbol of cultural cooperation.

The vessel arrived from Palma at 8:30 AM and departed at 6:00 PM for Barcelona, carrying 203 guests onboard.

Dramatic Record-Breaking Numbers

The Port of Roses is expected to receive 15 cruise calls, accommodating up to 4,500 passengers during the season, which extends until November 17, 2025.

This figure represents approximately a doubling of calls and a threefold increase in passenger numbers compared to last year, making it the busiest season for the port to date.

When combining the figures for both Palamós and Roses ports, the total number of visits is estimated at 82 calls from fifteen cruise companies, welcoming approximately 69,500 passengers.

This represents an increase of 41% in cruise ship calls and 31% in passenger numbers compared to 2024.

Prominent Companies and Brands

The growth contagion was not limited to port figures; it also encompassed a diversity of participating cruise lines. The list includes:

Club Med, Emerald Cruises, Mystic Cruises, Ponant, Seabourn, and SeaDream Yacht Club.
In the 2025 season, Emerald Sakara is expected to make its inaugural visit to Roses.

Overall, Costa Brava's roster for this season includes 20 cruise companies, with 85% of them being in the luxury category, reflecting the port's focus on attracting high-end and cultural tourism.

Tangible Local Economic Impact

The increased port activity provides a significant boost to the region's economy.

Estimates suggest that the passenger numbers will result in a total expenditure of €6.6 million, calculated at an average individual spending of €89 at the tourist destination, in addition to €6 in port service fees per passenger.

The positive impact extends to hotels, restaurants, and shops, as well as providing seasonal employment opportunities during peak months.

Diverse and Varied Tourist Scene

Costa Brava has become a multi-dimensional destination, offering calls at both Palamós and Roses ports, allowing visitors to choose between enchanting natural landscapes, the finest Mediterranean cuisine, and cultural activities such as museums and traditional markets.

The region's appeal is further enhanced by the growing interest from luxury cruise companies, which are seeking destinations beyond the familiar routes of Barcelona or Valencia.

Key Features

Diversification of cruise companies: 6 luxury cruise lines and 20 companies in total during the season.
Doubling of maritime activity: 82 expected calls, a 41% increase, and 69,500 passengers (+31%).
Strong local economic impact: €6.6 million in direct tourism expenditure.
Reception of ultra-luxury vessels: such as Seabourn and SeaDream.
Expansion of infrastructure and cultural offerings: Launch of high-quality reception facilities and promotion of local products.

About the Operator and the Port

The coordination of this developmental shift in Costa Brava is led by Costa Brava Cruise Ports, the entity responsible for managing and developing the region's maritime infrastructure.

Its recent efforts have focused on enhancing facilities to accommodate luxury vessels, both in Roses and Palamós.

The entity works in cooperation with local authorities and maritime companies to ensure a smooth flow of voyages and provide a harmonious experience for visitors, combining culture and comfort.

With the unprecedented launch of the 2025 cruise season, Costa Brava – and the Port of Roses in particular – proves itself to be a comprehensive maritime hub capable of attracting luxury cruise companies and passengers seeking a distinctive experience.

The record numbers and broad participation of companies signify that the region has entered a new era of tourism activity, based on diversity, quality, and the sustainable utilization of local resources.

Roses is no longer just a transient stop; it has become a gateway to a luxurious destination in the heart of the Mediterranean.