Passenger Traffic Decline on Huelva-Canary Islands Maritime Routes Raises Concerns

Recent statistics have unveiled a significant downturn in passenger traffic on the maritime routes connecting Huelva with the Canary Islands. This decline has raised questions about the future viability of these routes and the factors influencing this trend.

Notable Drop in Passenger and Vehicle Transport

During the first three quarters of 2025, the maritime routes between Huelva and the Canary Islands, specifically Las Palmas de Gran Canaria and Tenerife, saw an 11.06% decrease in passenger numbers compared to the same timeframe in the previous year. According to data released by the Port of Huelva, the total passenger count plummeted to 39,719, down from 44,657 in 2024. This decline is not limited to passenger traffic; the number of vehicles transported on these routes also experienced a downturn, dropping from 25,776 to 23,758. This represents a loss of 2,018 vehicles, equating to a 7.83% decrease.

The decline in both passenger and vehicle transport raises concerns among stakeholders about the sustainability of these maritime routes. The drop in numbers could be attributed to various factors, including changing travel preferences, economic conditions, and competition from other transport modes. As the maritime industry navigates these challenges, the implications for local economies and tourism in the Canary Islands could be significant.

Shifts in Service Operators Impacting Connectivity

The shipping landscape underwent a notable change in April 2024 when the company Armas made the strategic decision to relocate its operations to the Port of Cádiz. This move has left the maritime route between Huelva and the Canary Islands with only one remaining operator. The alliance of Fred Olsen Express and Baleària, which has been providing services since October 2018, is now the sole provider on this route. This triangular service connects the ports of Huelva, La Luz in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, and Santa Cruz de Tenerife, ensuring that some level of connectivity remains between these key locations.

The departure of Armas from the Huelva route has raised concerns about the potential for reduced competition and service quality. With only one operator remaining, there is a risk that prices could increase or that service frequency could diminish, further impacting passenger numbers. Stakeholders are closely monitoring the situation to assess how this shift will affect travel options for both residents and tourists.

Increased Service Frequency During Peak Summer Months

In response to the fluctuating demand for maritime travel, shipping companies have taken proactive measures to enhance service frequency during the summer months. Between July 1 and September 30, 2024, and from July 15 to September 18 this year, the companies doubled their service connections, adding an extra sailing to the usual three. This increase aims to facilitate the transport of both passengers and rolling cargo between the mainland and the Canary Islands, catering to the heightened demand typically seen during the summer season.

The routes connecting Huelva and the Canary Islands were designated as routes of public interest by the Council of Ministers in February 2022. This designation established Public Service Obligations, which require a minimum of one journey per week for each route. These obligations are intended to ensure that essential transport links remain available to the public, even in times of reduced demand.

As the summer season approaches, the increased frequency of sailings is expected to provide a much-needed boost to passenger numbers. However, the long-term sustainability of this approach remains to be seen, especially in light of the recent declines in traffic.

Key points

• Passenger numbers on maritime routes between Huelva and the Canary Islands dropped by 11.06% in the first three quarters of 2025.
• A total of 39,719 passengers were recorded from January to September 2025.
• The number of vehicles transported decreased by 7.83%, falling to 23,758.
• Armas relocated its services to the Port of Cádiz in April 2024.
• Fred Olsen Express and Baleària continue to operate the remaining route.
• Summer service frequency was doubled to meet increased demand.
• Public Service Obligations were established to maintain minimum service levels.