From 13th to 16th April 2026, the international cruise industry is scheduled to convene at Seatrade Cruise Global in Miami, an event regarded as the principal annual gathering of cruise operators, suppliers and destinations. Hamburg will attend as the sole German destination, represented by eleven exhibitors and a dedicated stand operating as part of the German Pavilion.
The exhibition is expected to attract more than 11,500 participants and over 650 exhibitors from more than 120 countries, providing a platform for engagement with leading cruise lines and key stakeholders. For Hamburg, the event serves as an opportunity to strengthen its position within the North American market while maintaining visibility among global cruise operators.
Simone Maraschi, managing director of Cruise Gate Hamburg GmbH, indicated that the port anticipates a record year with more than 330 vessel calls, approximately one third of which are expected to take place at the recently developed HafenCity terminal. He noted that the terminal’s central location within an active urban district offers passengers direct access to the city upon arrival, forming part of Hamburg’s broader strategy to integrate cruise infrastructure with the urban environment.
In addition to the existing terminals at Altona and Steinwerder, the HafenCity facility expands operational capacity and provides additional flexibility for both established and prospective cruise line partners. Discussions in Miami are expected to focus on strengthening partnerships and identifying new opportunities for growth, particularly within the United States market.
Hamburg’s presence at the exhibition will be supported by a range of companies associated with the regional cruise sector, coordinated through Hamburg Cruise Net. These organizations represent a broad network of maritime services and suppliers that contribute to the operational framework of cruise activity in the port.
Christine Beine, managing director of Hamburg Cruise Net, indicated that the destination continues to develop at a steady pace, supported not only by increasing vessel calls and passenger volumes but also by the concentration of cruise-related service providers in the city, which contribute to its economic value. She further noted that companies such as AIDA Cruises maintain extensive partnerships within Hamburg, reinforcing its role as a central hub for cruise operations.
Recent industry data indicates continued growth in cruise travel among German passengers, with approximately 4.2 million ocean and river cruises recorded in 2025, exceeding the previous year’s figures. Expenditure on cruise holidays reached an estimated EUR 6.7 billion, reflecting sustained demand within the market.
The development of Hamburg’s cruise sector was also evident in its 2025 performance, when the port recorded around 295 ship calls and approximately 1.4 million passengers. These figures underline its position as one of Northern Europe’s principal cruise destinations and provide the operational context for its participation in the Miami event.