Barcelona hit by a wave of cruise ships

The port of Barcelona has recorded nearly one million cruise ship passengers in the first half of 2011 (January to June). Barcelona is already the biggest mediterranean port when it comes to cruise ship traffic, reaching levels of the major cruise ports in the caribbean.

For years Barcelona has bet on becoming the Miami of the med, and because of its location and attractions as a tourist destination, Barcelona just needed the adequate facilities and time to get there. The conversion of its recreational and commercial port in the early 90s allowed the smaller terminals located near the centre of the city to hold small luxury cruise ships.

The transformation of Barcelona dock into the world trade center expanded port capacity for medium-sized cruises. And more recently the construction of additional terminals in the docks provided the size needed for larger cruise ships.

Of the 2.5 million cruise passengers that will pass through Barcelona this year, more than half started or ended their journey in Barcelona. These visitors often spend several days in town before or after boarding, and demand a wide range of accommodation that fits their tourism profile. Barcelona offers this variety not only in hotels but also in 3 bedroom apartments. Families on a cruise vacation can plan the perfect break and opt for a large, well equipped apartment, with a much lower cost than a hotel, with thoughtful extras like a washer and dryer, much needed after a week on board a ship. And those who choose a luxury boat trip enjoy an experience of exclusivity and distinction, a full service apartment in Barcelona can be truly luxurious, with large spaces, designer furniture, works of art, fresh flowers and continuing personal attention.