The Tunisian port of La Goulette has seen significant growth in cruise tourism, with approximately 243,000 cruise tourists visiting by the end of September 2026. This represents a 21.5% increase from the same period in the previous year. According to the Office of Merchant Marine and Ports (OMMP), the port is on track to meet its annual target of 355,000 tourists. This forecast represents a 31.5% increase from 2025, when 270,000 tourists visited.
On October 8, the port of La Goulette welcomed over 10,000 tourists from various nationalities on board two cruise ships from Barcelona, Spain. Some visitors explored the city's archaeological sites, tourist areas, and specialty shops selling handicrafts. This large influx of tourists highlights the port's growing importance as a cruise destination. The OMMP's positive forecast is a promising sign for Tunisia's tourism industry.
The OMMP's annual target of 355,000 tourists represents a significant increase from 2025. To achieve this goal, the port needs to welcome around 112,000 more cruise tourists in the last quarter of 2026. With approximately 243,000 tourists already visiting in the first nine months, the port has already reached nearly 90% of its 2025 total. This progress indicates a steady recovery in Tunisia's tourism sector.
The growth in cruise tourism at La Goulette has a positive impact on the local economy, particularly in terms of tourist excursions, cultural sites, and businesses in the capital. The port's increasing popularity as a cruise destination is likely to benefit local communities and support economic development. As the tourism industry continues to grow, it is essential to monitor the sector's progress and assess its impact on the local economy.
According to the OMMP, the port of La Goulette has recorded 72 cruise ship escales in 2026. This growth in cruise tourism is part of a broader strategy to attract more visitors to Tunisia. The country aims to welcome one million tourists in 2028, and the OMMP's forecast for 2026 is a step towards achieving this goal.
The Tunisian government has been working to promote tourism and improve infrastructure in recent years. The growth in cruise tourism at La Goulette is a positive sign for the country's tourism industry, which has faced challenges in the past. The OMMP's forecast is a promising indication that the sector is on the path to recovery.
As the tourism industry continues to grow, stakeholders will be monitoring the sector's progress closely. The OMMP's forecast of 355,000 tourists in 2026 is a realistic target, given the port's current growth rate. With continued investment in infrastructure and tourism promotion, Tunisia is likely to remain a popular destination for cruise tourists.
Key points
- The port of La Goulette aims to host 355,000 cruise tourists in 2026.
- The port has already welcomed approximately 243,000 cruise tourists by the end of September 2026.
- The growth in cruise tourism at La Goulette is expected to have a positive impact on the local economy.
