The Balearic Islands Port Authority (APB) has announced that 205 cruise ships are expected to arrive at Ibiza's port this season. This was highlighted by the public body's president, Javier Sanz, who emphasized the port's significance to the island, noting that 90% of goods brought to Ibiza come through this facility. Sanz also emphasized the need to balance different uses at the port, including cruise ships, ferries, cargo ships, and passenger services, to ensure smooth operations and a satisfactory experience for users and workers. Measures have been implemented to manage both vessel and passenger flows effectively and avoid past issues. To manage peak traffic, APB plans to prevent cruise ships from coinciding with regular services at Botafoc, and will stagger cruise arrivals to limit passenger surges. Despite this, there will be days when multiple cruise ships dock simultaneously. On July 7, four ships, mainly smaller ones, are scheduled to dock together. APB's director, Toni Ginard, noted Botafoc’s infrastructure limits cruise tourism growth on the island. Solutions to alleviate peak season congestion include a redeveloped Paseo de Ibosim, creating a reversible third lane. This €8 million project is set for completion by 2027, promising significant traffic relief. Additionally, APB introduced Alberto del Pino as the new delegate for the ports of Ibiza and Formentera. With over 25 years of international port project experience, the engineer's expertise is expected to modernize and streamline port management, focusing on service quality and balancing various port activities in a complex operational and territorial environment.
