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Melilla and ITM Group mark a milestone in the destination’s history. For the first time, Port Melilla simultaneously welcomed two world-class cruise ships: Norwegian Dawn and Azamara Quest, positioning the autonomous city as a new benchmark on the global cruise tourism map.
This unprecedented event reflects a strategic vision aimed at positioning Melilla as an authentic, culturally diverse, and high-value experiential destination.
Ahead of Arrival
On April 15, a press conference was held at Parque Noray, where the project and the initiatives promoted by ITM Group and Fundacion Genera ITM for the community were presented, including the Comparte Melilla program.
Comparte Melilla is an initiative by Ticket to Fun and Fundacion Genera ITM that invites entrepreneurs, professionals, and local groups to share Melilla’s culture, gastronomy, and history with cruise passengers. Its goal is to actively integrate the local community into the tourism activity driven by cruise arrivals.
In the days leading up to the ship’s arrival, businesses in downtown Melilla received chalkboards from Port Melilla to create menus in English, with the aim of better connecting with cruise passengers visiting the destination for the first time.
A Memorable Day for Melilla
The arrival of both cruise ships represented approximately four thousand visitors, who remained in the city for six hours.
During their stay, cruise passengers enjoyed the historical heritage of Melilla, highlighting:
Melilla la Vieja: The most emblematic historical core of the city, located on a rocky promontory that extends into the Mediterranean Sea. Its walls, stretching 2,000 meters and built between the 16th and 18th centuries, make it one of the best-preserved fortresses in Europe. Inside, there are museums, squares, the Church of the Conception, and viewpoints offering panoramic views of the sea and the city.
Parque España: One of the most representative and frequented green spaces in Melilla, located in the heart of the city. It is a prominent meeting point known for its careful design, gardens, fountains, and wide walking areas. Its location near the seafront promenade makes it ideal for unwinding, enjoying the surroundings, and appreciating the combination of nature and urban life.
In addition to sightseeing, cruise passengers and locals enjoyed a special free show: an equestrian performance featuring Andalusian horses and Arab-Berber horses, accompanied by dances and tradition at the iconic Plaza de Toros de Melilla.
As with every first call, the traditional plaque exchange ceremony was held, a gesture that strengthens the ties between the port and cruise lines. On this occasion, our Port Melilla Director, Ernesto Monteiro, along with our Corporate Vice President, Mariana Perrilliat, were responsible for visiting each cruise ship, sharing a close and meaningful moment with each of the cruise lines.
A port for the Melilla community and the world
On the occasion of the arrival, local businesses and the community demonstrated their commitment to the visitor experience, proactively adapting to their schedules and dynamics. From the early hours of the morning, they opened their establishments to provide excellent service and help project the best image of the destination. The reception of this arrival was positive, as they had the opportunity to present and share their spirit and multiculturalism with the world.
The simultaneous arrival on April 22 is an event that not only represents a milestone in the port history of the city, but also marks the beginning of a promising story for tourism in Melilla.
It is about opening the doors to a destination where cultures meet, coexist, and come to life.
