The Tunisian tourism sector is experiencing a notable resurgence in cruise tourism, with 165 cruise ships docking at its ports between January and October 2026. This marks a significant increase from 127 cruise ships that visited the country throughout 2025. According to Tourism and Handicrafts Minister Sofiene Tekaya, this revival is a welcome development for an industry that was severely impacted by a terrorist attack at the Bardo Museum in 2015.
The 2015 terrorist attack, which occurred on March 18, resulted in the deaths of 21 tourists who had just disembarked from a cruise ship at the Port of La Goulette. The incident led to a prolonged downturn in Tunisia's cruise tourism sector, with many international cruise lines, including Costa and MSC, pulling out of the market. However, the sector has been gradually recovering since the COVID-19 pandemic, with 2021 marking a turning point in the industry's revival.
Minister Tekaya attributed the recent growth in cruise tourism to the organization of excursions to historical, natural, and cultural sites, as well as handicraft markets. These activities have contributed to a boost in economic activity, with the minister's department working to expand cruise ship operations to other ports, including those in Sousse and Zarzis. The Port of Zarzis is currently undergoing development work to accommodate more cruise ships.
Tekaya emphasized that his ministry is also focused on linking cruise ship stops to local handicraft villages, archaeological sites, and other tourist areas, particularly in southern Tunisia. This strategy aims to enable different regions to benefit more from cruise tourism. The minister made these remarks during a joint plenary session of the Assembly of People's Representatives and the National Council of Regions and Districts, which was dedicated to examining the ministry's 2027 budget.
Historical data shows that 2010 was a peak year for Tunisia's cruise tourism sector, with approximately 1 million cruise passengers visiting the country, primarily through the Port of La Goulette. Following the 2011 revolution and subsequent terrorist attacks targeting the tourism sector, the industry experienced a significant decline. However, with the gradual recovery of recent years, cruise tourism in Tunisia appears to be regaining its footing.
The Tunisian government is working to further develop its cruise tourism sector, with a focus on diversifying the industry and promoting regional economic growth. By expanding cruise ship operations to new ports and linking stops to local attractions, the government aims to increase the sector's contribution to the national economy. This approach is expected to have a positive impact on the country's tourism industry and overall economic development.
As the sector continues to recover, stakeholders will be monitoring its progress and impact on the Tunisian economy. With 165 cruise ships visiting the country's ports in the first 10 months of 2026, the industry is showing signs of sustained growth. The government will likely continue to implement strategies aimed at supporting the sector's development and promoting Tunisia as a cruise tourism destination.
Key points
- Tunisian ports welcomed 165 cruise ships between January and October 2026, up from 127 in all of 2025.
