Port of Aarhus expects record cruise calls in 2026
The Port of Aarhus is anticipating a record-breaking year in 2026, with 73 cruise ship calls projected to bring as many as 257,000 guests and crew to the city. Notably, Aarhus will welcome cruise visitors throughout all 12 months of the year for the first time.
While the current cruise season is still underway, the forecast for 2026 already surpasses this year’s achievements. The 73 scheduled calls for 2026 represent a significant increase from the 61 ships expected in 2025. A substantial number of these visitors are anticipated to disembark, contributing to the local economy through dining, shopping, and exploring Aarhus and the broader East Jutland region.
“We are observing a steadily increasing interest in Aarhus as a cruise destination,” stated Thomas Haber Borch, CEO of Port of Aarhus. “Cruising is a vital sector for us, and I am thrilled that we will be hosting an even greater volume of ships and passengers in 2026. This development is exceptionally positive for businesses within Aarhus and across the entire region.”
The milestone of hosting at least one cruise call in every month of 2026 underscores Aarhus’s growing prominence as a year-round cruise hub.
The Port of Aarhus also expects a high adoption rate of its shore power system, with up to 85% of cruise ships anticipated to utilize it in 2026. “Shipping companies are demonstrating a strong commitment to using shore power whenever feasible,” Borch remarked. “By connecting to the grid and deactivating their diesel generators, we significantly reduce particulate pollution and eliminate engine noise, creating a more pleasant environment for both residents and visitors.”
To encourage this transition, the port introduced a green tax in 2024, imposing an additional charge of up to DKK 80,000 on cruise ships that opt not to connect to shore power.
Aarhus is primarily positioned as a key destination within cruise itineraries covering the Baltic Sea, Northern Europe, the Faroe Islands, Iceland, and Greenland.