Brazil cruise season 2026–2027 shows growth in Santos and Rio de Janeiro

Major Brazilian port cities are preparing for an expanded cruise season running from October 2026 through April 2027.

The Port of Santos in São Paulo has scheduled 164 cruise calls involving 10 ships and approximately 785,000 passengers and crew. The operational update from the Municipality of Santos indicates that the season will span 103 operating days, with December expected to see the highest volume of traffic.

In Rio de Janeiro, the Pier Mauá terminal anticipates a 33% increase in luxury ship calls compared to the previous season. The projected 112 calls from 29 different vessels are expected to bring roughly 325,000 passengers and crew to the region. This activity is estimated to inject approximately R$ 246 million into the local economy, benefiting sectors such as hospitality, gastronomy, and commerce. The season is expected to see high activity during the Carnival period in early February.