AIDAprima Launches AIDA’s First Winter Season From Kiel

AIDA Cruises has announced that AIDAprima’s inaugural Christmas sailing to Northern Europe’s holiday markets has officially begun the company’s first ever winter season operating out of Kiel.

The 2025–26 season marks the first time AIDA will homeport from Kiel year round.

“For the first time in our company’s history, we are in Kiel all year round, significantly expanding our presence in the Schleswig-Holstein state capital. With this decision, we are also strengthening our travel offer to the north,” said Felix Eichhorn, president of AIDA Cruises.

“AIDA Cruises’ decision to sail from Kiel in winter not only strengthens the tourism location but is also a clear signal of the importance of maritime infrastructure and sustainable port development in Schleswig-Holstein,” said Susanne Henckel, State Secretary for Transport and Labor.

Henckel added that Kiel’s position is important for sustainability, noting that AIDA ships have been using the port’s shore power system since 2021. “This makes it possible to supply the ships with electricity from renewable sources when they are in port for eight to 10 hours,” she said.

Dr. Dirk Claus, managing director of the Port of Kiel, stated: “The expansion of AIDA Cruises’ winter program strengthens Kiel as a cruise location beyond the summer season and provides new impetus for tourism and the economy in the region; we are very pleased about that.”

According to the company, the milestone was celebrated with Felix Eichhorn, Susanne Henckel, Dr. Dirk Claus and Captain David Rienecker in attendance.