On Thursday, October 8, 2026, the port of La Goulette in Tunisia experienced a remarkable day, attracting over 10,600 visitors from various nationalities. Two major cruise ships, the MSC Meraviglia and the Costa Pacifica, docked at the port early in the morning, having sailed from Barcelona. The MSC Meraviglia carried 4,759 tourists and 1,624 crew members, while the Costa Pacifica had 3,180 tourists and 1,037 crew members on board.
The large influx of visitors had a positive impact on the local economy, with many tourists exploring the city's archaeological sites, iconic landmarks, and traditional craft shops. This surge in tourism is part of a larger trend, with La Goulette port having already welcomed around 243,000 cruise passengers by the end of September 2026. This represents a significant increase of about 21% compared to the same period in 2025.
According to recent statistics, the port of La Goulette is expected to receive approximately 355,000 tourists by the end of 2026, marking a substantial rise of around 31% from 2025. These numbers demonstrate the growing appeal of Tunisia as a cruise destination and the country's successful efforts to revive its tourism industry.
The Tunisian tourism sector has been working to regain its momentum, and the latest figures suggest that these efforts are paying off. The presence of major cruise lines like MSC and Costa at La Goulette port underscores the country's growing popularity among international tourists.
The impact of this increased tourism is being felt by local businesses, including artisans and shopkeepers who are benefiting from the influx of visitors. As tourists explore the city, they are contributing to the local economy and helping to promote Tunisia's rich cultural heritage.
The port of La Goulette has long been an important hub for cruise tourism in Tunisia, and its reputation as a premier destination continues to grow. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and warm hospitality, La Goulette is well-positioned to remain a top destination for cruise passengers in the years to come.
As the tourism industry continues to evolve, Tunisia is focused on maintaining its momentum and attracting even more visitors to its shores. With its unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, the country is confident that it will remain a popular destination for travelers from around the world.
Key points
- La Goulette port welcomed over 10,600 visitors in a single day as two cruise ships docked.
- The port has seen a significant increase in cruise passengers, with a 21% rise in numbers by the end of September 2026.
- The country is expecting around 355,000 tourists to visit La Goulette port by the end of 2026, marking a 31% increase from 2025.
