The first big ship of the season arrives in the Brazilian city of Ilhabela
On November 24, 2025, the Costa Favolosa made its maiden voyage to Ilhabela this season.
After moving to South America for the winter, the Costa Cruises ship made its first port call in the region, arriving at the Brazilian location. On November 23, 2025, the three-night cruise set out from Santos and visited Balneň Camboriú.
According to Toninho Colucci, the mayor of Ilhabela, “cruise tourism brings visitors who consume, enjoy tours, restaurants, and local commerce, generating direct returns for residents who depend on tourism.” Many of these visitors develop a deep affection for the island and return at later times to spend more time in Ilhabela. We’re ready to greet them warmly and present the finest aspects of the city,” he continued.
As part of its repositioning cruise to Antarctica, the Scenic Eclipse visited Ilhabela in early October, bringing more than 150 visitors and marking the beginning of the 2025–26 season. Through April 2026, Ilhabela is anticipated to receive 49 more calls following the Costa Favolosa and the Scenic Eclipse.
With an estimated economic impact of more than USD 80 million, the ships are expected to attract more than 217,000 passengers and crew members to the town. The MSC Fantasia, which will frequently stop in Ilhabela during its voyages from Argentina, is one of the other ships scheduled to visit the town in 2025–2026.
