25 February 2026
Stornoway Port is preparing to welcome 89 cruise ship calls during the 2026 season, reinforcing its growing prominence as one of Scotland’s premier cruise destinations.
The season is expected to bring approximately 60,000 passengers to the Outer Hebrides, contributing an estimated £7.8 million to the local economy. This continued growth reflects strong demand from cruise operators and highlights the increasing importance of cruise tourism to the islands’ economy, supporting local businesses, hospitality providers, and visitor attractions.
Among the headline arrivals in 2026 are globally recognised vessels including MSC Preziosa, Carnival Legend, and Cunard’s newest flagship, Queen Anne, which will return to Stornoway following its successful maiden visit in 2025. Their inclusion in the schedule demonstrates sustained confidence in Stornoway’s facilities, particularly the £59 million Deep Water Terminal, which has significantly expanded the Port’s ability to accommodate larger, modern cruise ships.
MSC Preziosa, one of MSC Cruises’ flagship vessels with capacity for more than 4,300 passengers, and Carnival Legend, a prominent ship within Carnival Cruise Line’s fleet, will each bring substantial visitor numbers to the island. The return of Queen Anne, Cunard’s first new ship in more than a decade, is especially significant and reflects the strong relationship between the Port and one of the world’s most prestigious cruise lines.
Kirsty Hutchison, Cruise & Marketing Manager at Stornoway Port, said: “The 2026 cruise season represents another major milestone for Stornoway Port, with 89 scheduled calls highlighting the continued growth in demand from international cruise operators. The return of high-profile vessels such as Queen Anne, alongside visits from MSC Preziosa and Carnival Legend, demonstrates the strength of Stornoway’s reputation as a world-class destination.
“Our Deep Water Terminal continues to transform what the Port can offer, strengthening our ability to accommodate larger vessels and enhancing the overall visitor experience. Looking ahead, we are progressing plans for the next phase of development at the Terminal, alongside the ongoing development of Arnish Road, to further build capacity and resilience across the estate.
“Crucially, investment in Arnish Road goes well beyond cruise. It provides essential access for those employed at the Arnish fabrication yard and supports the many other businesses operating within the Arnish Industrial Estate. It is vital for year-round economic activity on the islands.
“These investments are about more than infrastructure alone. They are about securing lasting economic benefit for the Outer Hebrides, creating opportunity, supporting high-quality employment and ensuring Stornoway continues to play a leading role in Scotland’s cruise offering.”
For a detailed schedule of cruise ship arrivals in Stornoway, please visit: https://www.stornowayportauthority.com/sectors/leisure/cruise-index