European leaders of the cruise sector were scheduled to assemble in Funchal, Madeira between 23rd and 26th February 2026 for the European Summit organized by the Cruise Lines International Association. The gathering, hosted in cooperation with the Regional Government of Madeira and the Ports Administration of the Autonomous Region of Madeira, aimed to address sustainable growth, connectivity, and the readiness of destinations within the broader framework of transport, tourism, and climate policy in Europe.
The association described the summit as its principal policy forum in Europe, bringing together executives from cruise companies, representatives of European institutions, national and regional authorities, port administrations, shipbuilding and maritime organizations, and other stakeholders. It was noted that holding the event in Funchal would position Madeira as a focal point for discussions on the sector’s strategic role in European maritime and tourism development, particularly in relation to island territories and Atlantic regions.
Among the participants announced were the Secretary of State for Infrastructure of Portugal, the President of the Regional Government of Madeira, the Regional Secretary of Economy, and the European Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism, who was to contribute through a video address. Industry representation included the president and chief executive officer of the association, the executive chairman of a major cruise operator, and senior officials from international port, shipowner, and maritime equipment organizations, alongside national and local leaders from across Europe. The program was expected to examine the economic contribution of cruising, regional development, decarbonization pathways, port and infrastructure preparedness, and approaches to responsible tourism and destination management.
The president and chief executive officer of the association remarked that the summit would occur at a significant juncture in the ongoing dialogue between the cruise industry and policymakers as Europe shaped the next phase of its transport and climate agenda. He stated that the sector supported economic growth and regional connectivity while advancing environmental technologies and operational practices aligned with European sustainability objectives.
Reports indicated that Madeira had recorded its strongest cruise season to date in 2024 and 2025, receiving more than 740,000 passengers and generating substantial direct economic impact for the regional economy. The destination had also been distinguished as Europe’s Best Cruise Destination for 2025 by an international industry award. Regional authorities and port operators were said to have continued investing in digital systems, environmental monitoring, and energy transition initiatives to strengthen operational capability and long-term resilience in support of cruise activities.
The summit received backing from industry partners across the maritime value chain, with various organizations serving as sponsors at different levels, reflecting broad commercial and technical support for the event and its objectives.