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March 21, 2025

Andalusia continues to strengthen its role in the nautical and cruise tourism sector with the organization of CITCA 2025, the International Congress on Nautical and Cruise Tourism, scheduled for October 15-17, 2025.

The event, which will take place between Motril and Granada, aims to strategically position the region as a leading destination for maritime tourism, combining innovation, sustainability, and local economic development. The announcement of CITCA 2025 was officially presented at the International Tourism Fair (FITUR) in Madrid, at the Andalucía stand of the Junta de Andalucía. The event was attended by key sector representatives, including Gerardo Landaluce Calleja, President of Suncruise Andalucía; José García Fuentes, President of the Port Authority of Motril-Granada; Luisa María García Chamorro, Mayor of Motril; Marifrán Carazo Villalonga, Mayor of Granada; and Víctor Manuel González García, Vice-Minister of Tourism and Foreign Affairs of Andalusia.

The congress will begin in Motril, with an exclusive Fam Trip organized by the Municipal Association of Costa Tropical, allowing participants to discover the natural and cultural beauties of the region. This first day will serve as a unique opportunity to showcase the area’s potential, as emphasized by José García Fuentes, who highlighted Motril’s role as a gateway to new economic and tourism opportunities. The President of the Port Authority of Motril-Granada pointed out that the congress will not only highlight the port and coast of the region but also showcase local gastronomy, cultural heritage, and the competitiveness of local businesses on the international stage.

On the opening day, a workshop will also be held for entrepreneurs from Costa Tropical, Granada, and Andalusia, offering them the chance to present their services to international maritime and port companies. According to García Fuentes, the main goal is to position Motril and the entire province of Granada as benchmarks in nautical and cruise tourism, fostering growth, competitiveness, and internationalization for local SMEs.

The congress will continue in Granada, where on October 16 and 17, in-depth sessions will be held focusing on innovation and sustainability—two key pillars of the sector’s future. The Mayor of Granada, Marifrán Carazo Villalonga, emphasized the importance of the event, stating that the city will provide the perfect setting to present Andalusia’s unique offer, characterized by tradition, modernity, and a distinctive vision of tourism. She also highlighted that CITCA 2025 represents a crucial opportunity to strengthen Granada’s position in the cruise sector and stimulate the development of new strategies for innovation and sustainable growth.

The organization of CITCA 2025 reflects the strategic importance of Motril and Granada in the cruise sector. Luisa María García Chamorro, Mayor of Motril, called the event “a unique opportunity to consolidate our territory as an outstanding destination for nautical and cruise tourism, with a particular focus on sustainability and seasonality.” She also highlighted that the port of Motril is progressively establishing itself as a boutique port in Andalusia, capable of offering exclusive and personalized experiences for travelers.

Closing the presentation, Víctor Manuel González García, Vice-Minister of Tourism of Andalusia, emphasized the strategic importance of CITCA 2025 and the 2025 Action Plan for the region’s tourism development. He stated that “these projects go beyond mere promotion, representing a comprehensive strategy that integrates sustainability, technological innovation, and support for local businesses.” He concluded by saying that “Andalusia is not just a destination, but a global experience.”

CITCA 2025 is set to be an unmissable event for professionals, businesses, and institutions in the cruise and nautical sectors. The event will offer networking opportunities, strategic insights, and moments of exchange on emerging trends in maritime tourism, with a particular focus on sustainability, innovation, and local development.

Motril and Granada, with their cultural heritage, modern infrastructure, and growing commitment to sustainable tourism, are preparing to host this high-profile international event, solidifying Andalusia as a leading destination for the cruise tourism of the future.

Stay tuned for news, information, and updates on the world of cruises on Cruising Journal.

Hannah Gomes

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