Increased Number of Cruise Ships in Croatian Waters Reaches 5% over 2024 Levels
In the opening months of 2025, a significant increase in foreign cruise ships visiting Croatia has been observed, bringing a positive impact on the country's tourism sector. According to recent data, **45 foreign cruise ships** made a total of **151 calls** at Croatian seaports from January to May, marking a **4.9%** increase compared to the same period in 2024.
The Split-Dalmatia County and Dubrovnik-Neretva County were the regions that received the highest number of foreign cruise trips during this period, with the latter recording the most trips. The number of days foreign cruise ships stayed in Croatia increased by about 20 days, or 7.6%, to 356 days in the first five months of 2025.
The rise in cruise ship visits has contributed to increased tourism revenue, supporting local economies in popular ports such as Dubrovnik, Split, Zadar, Šibenik, and Korčula. More tourists exploring these destinations have also enriched the diversity and volume of tourist experiences available in Croatia.
The increased number of ship calls has led to higher usage of local facilities and services, including ports, hotels, restaurants, and attractions, thus benefiting the local infrastructure and economy. In May 2025, 132,000 passengers arrived aboard foreign cruise ships in Croatia, which is a 6% increase.
Foreign cruise ships in Croatian waters in May 2025 sailed under the flags of a total of 11 countries, including Panama, the Bahamas, Norway, Italy, Bermuda, and Malta, which was on 42 of the foreign cruise ships.
As the tourist season in Croatia for the year 2025 has started off well, the country can expect a continued positive impact on its tourism sector from the increased number of foreign cruise ships visiting its shores.
- The boost in foreign cruise ship visits has extended beyond the tourism sector, as the energy industry benefits from increased demand for supplies to fuel these vessels.
- The aerospace industry has noticed a rise in travel-related investments, as the surge in foreign cruise ships visiting Croatia indicates a growth in lifestyle-oriented tourism.
- The finance sector anticipates sustained profits from expanding tourism revenue in Croatia, alongside gains from the transportation industry due to increased travel through ports like Split and Dubrovnik.
