FITUR Cruises 2026 reaffirms its commitment to the booming maritime tourism market

In 2024, the cruise industry reached a record 34.6 million passengers worldwide, a 9.3% increase over the previous year, and this figure is expected to reach 37.7 million in 2025. Furthermore, by 2030, the global cruise market is forecast to generate revenues of $18.35 billion with a compound annual growth rate of 12.9%, according to the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) 'State of the Cruise Industry 2025' report. Given this solid expansion of the cruise sector, the International Tourism Fair responds to this global trend and offers the strategic opportunity to connect with a dynamic market with great potential at the fifth edition of FITUR Cruises from January 21 to 25 at IFEMA Madrid.

Organized in collaboration with the online magazine Cruceroadicto.com, FITUR Cruises will debut a redesigned space in Hall 4 of the Trade Fair Center. This space will combine an exhibition area, which in 2026 will bring together the largest number of cruise lines and companies in the cruise sector, with a central auditorium and the Cruise Market business area.

FITUR Cruises' dual strategy: B2B and B2C approaches for a personalized offering

During the professional conferences—Wednesday, January 21, Thursday, January 22, and Friday, January 23—FITUR Cruises 2026 will connect the key players driving the sector's success and offer an engaging conference program. This will contribute to the commercial revitalization of cruises; strengthen their public image as a vacation option; and promote their awareness among sales agents and travelers.

Cruise Market will be the heart of FITUR Cruises 2026, serving as a meeting, work, and business opportunity for cruise lines, destinations, ports, and tour operators, as well as for these stakeholders to connect with professional visitors and end-user travelers. Cruise Campus, meanwhile, will continue its innovative system of 25-minute talks and mini-courses on topics such as marketing for travel agents, who contribute approximately 50% of the industry's revenue, communication, and the travel experience from all angles in a practical way.

During the weekend, when FITUR opens its doors to the general public, the Cruises division will strengthen cruise passenger loyalty and organize activities to promote this type of tourism, introducing travelers to the diverse offerings: from family cruises, with attractions and a wide range of onboard leisure activities, to ultra-luxury cruises with helicopters and submarines; premium and upper premium cruises, offering haute cuisine; expedition cruise lines; river cruises; and cruises specializing in a specific geographic area.

Additionally, travelers can participate in the fifth edition of Cruise Scavenger Hunt, a grand treasure hunt among the FITUR stands, or the Café & Cruises gathering to share onboard experiences.

Cruceroadicto Awards, the only ones voted for by the Spanish-speaking travel community

On Thursday, January 22, FITUR Cruises will host the 4th Cruceroadicto Awards ceremony, the only awards 100% voted for by the Spanish-speaking travel community and certified by the AENOR seal for their commitment to transparency and impartiality. During the ceremony, the best ship, shipping company, and port of 2025, along with various subcategories, will be revealed.

Source: FITUR.