Cruise ship visits to Wales more than double in four years
Cruise ship visits to Wales more than double in four years
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Wales is fast emerging as a key destination for the global cruise industry, with new figures showing ship visits have more than doubled since 2021.
A total of 84 cruise ships docked in Welsh ports in 2025, representing a surge of over 100% compared with the 41 visits recorded four years ago. The growth highlights Wales’ rising profile among cruise operators and passengers seeking authentic cultural experiences and spectacular scenery.
The country’s five strategically located ports – Cardiff, Swansea, Milford Haven, Fishguard, and Holyhead – provide direct access to Wales’ rich mix of attractions, from medieval castles and Roman forts to vibrant cities and world-renowned landscapes.
Holyhead remains the busiest hub for the sector, handling 55 of the 84 cruise ships in 2025. Its facilities can accommodate vessels up to 300 metres in length, while a dedicated anchorage system allows even the largest ships to transfer passengers ashore.
Wendy Atkin-Smith, Managing Director of Viking UK, said: “Visiting Holyhead and the surrounding region is one of the highlights of our British Isles ocean voyages. Our guests enjoy learning about the culture and history of the destinations they visit as well as having the chance to meet local people and they always receive a very warm welcome in Wales.
“Our guests love exploring the local area and the region has a lot to offer – from learning about the seafaring history and visiting the Roman forts and ancient burial chambers to meeting the family who own Gwydir Castle and other members of the local community to sampling the culinary specialties of Anglesey through to a scenic hike in Snowdonia or a RIB ride in the Menai Strait.
“We are scheduled to call in to Holyhead 25 times next year, an increase of nearly 40 per cent from 2025, so we look forward to bringing many more travellers to explore the region in 2026.”
Tourism remains a vital contributor to Wales’ economy, generating £3.8 billion annually. The cruise market is seen as an important driver of regional growth, with passengers providing income for hospitality businesses and local communities across the country.
Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning, Rebecca Evans, said: “This remarkable growth in cruise visits demonstrates our rising profile as a premier destination.
“I’m delighted that our ports are welcoming increasing numbers of international visitors who bring vital investment to our local communities. It is a success story that reflects our tourism sector’s commitment to building a sustainable industry that delivers significant economic benefits whilst enriching our culture.
“Wales offers visitors an extraordinary blend of stunning landscapes, rich heritage and vibrant communities, all delivered with our renowned Welsh croeso. This growth trajectory positions us perfectly for an even brighter future for the cruise sector here.”
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