Ports & destinations

Global Ports Holding granted 30-year concession to develop Ferrol Cruise Port

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Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä

Category: Ports & Destinations Ports & Destinations

Published: 07 June 2026 07 June 2026

Global Ports Holding Limited, the world’s largest independent cruise port operator, has announced that the Port Authority of Ferrol-San Cibrao has granted Global Ports Ferrol S.L. a 30-year concession for the construction and operation of the cruise terminal at the Port of Ferrol.

The concession follows GPH’s successful award of a 30-year concession for Ferrol Cruise Port in November 2025, marking an important milestone in the Group’s continued expansion across Spain and the Atlantic region.

The concession covers a total area of 960 square meters on the Outer Breakwater Wharf and will be developed in two phases. The first phase will include the construction of a 480-square-meter terminal building, with a second phase planned once the wharf is fully operational for larger cruise vessels. A mobile facility will also be available to support calls berthed further from the main terminal, enabling the port to handle multiple cruise calls simultaneously.

Following the concession award, Global Ports Holding will submit the construction project for the first phase within three months, with works expected to begin within six months, subject to the necessary approvals from the Port Authority.
The new terminal will provide services for cruise lines, shipping agents, passengers, and port service providers, including passenger guidance, baggage control, gangway operations, and related services. The development will be carried out in line with energy-efficiency and environmental sustainability criteria.

Mehmet Kutman, Chairman & CEO of Global Ports Holding, commented: “Ferrol represents another important milestone in our continued growth across Spain and the Atlantic region. We are delighted to move into the development phase of this project and look forward to delivering a modern cruise terminal that enhances the passenger experience while supporting the long-term growth and international positioning of the destination.”

Francesc Grau, GPH Regional Director West Med commented: “Ferrol holds strong potential as an emerging cruise destination in Northern Spain, with a unique combination of maritime heritage, cultural appeal, and access to the wider Galicia region. This concession marks an important step in our commitment to developing modern, efficient, and sustainable cruise infrastructure that will support the port’s long-term growth. By investing in the new terminal, we aim to enhance the passenger experience, strengthen Ferrol’s position on cruise itineraries, and create lasting value for the city, the Port Authority, and the local community.”

Strategically located on Spain’s northwest coast along key Atlantic cruise routes, Ferrol further strengthens GPH’s presence in Spain and the wider Atlantic region. Leveraging GPH’s global operating expertise and cruise line relationships, annual passenger volumes are projected to increase from approximately 23,000 in 2026 to around 80,000 by 2034.

Global Ports Holding looks forward to working closely with the Port Authority of Ferrol-San Cibrao and local stakeholders to support the sustainable growth of cruise tourism in Ferrol and contribute to the city’s wider economic development and international visibility.

Photo: An archived image of Ferrol Cruise Port

 

Connect Barbados to take place in June

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Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä

Category: Ports & Destinations Ports & Destinations

Published: 27 April 2026 27 April 2026

The Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. (BTMI) today announced the Connect Barbados 2026, the island’s premier business-to-business (B2B) tourism conference, is set to take place June 23–26, 2026 at the Hilton Barbados Resort.

The conference will be staged under the theme, “Connect Barbados 2026; Rooted in Culture, Powered by Partnership,” a powerful reflection of Barbados’ 60th year of independence and its enduring commitment to global collaboration and tourism excellence. Bringing together leading international tour operators, travel agents, airlines, cruise partners, and media alongside local tourism stakeholders, Connect Barbados serves as a vital platform for forging strategic partnerships, driving business growth, and showcasing the destination’s evolving tourism product.

“Connect Barbados represents an annual benchmark for our tourism industry and our global partnerships,” said Andrea Franklin, Chief Executive Officer of the BTMI. “As our premier B2B platform, Connect Barbados creates meaningful opportunities for international partners and local stakeholders to meet, collaborate, and drive sustained business growth. It is through these partnerships that we continue to strengthen Barbados’ position in the global tourism marketplace and deliver long-term value for our industry.”

The 2026 programme will feature a mix of:

– Pre-scheduled business meetings between international buyers and local suppliers
– Destination experiences and site visits
– Panel discussions on key industry trends
– Networking events and cultural showcases

A key highlight of the 2026 conference will be the Connect Barbados Media and Trade Awards, which will recognize excellence in tourism storytelling, photography and outstanding performance among local and international travel partners. The awards will celebrate contributions that have significantly enhanced Barbados’ visibility and success in international markets, reinforcing the importance of strong, results-driven partnerships.

Leadership changes in Miami-Dade County, Port Director Hydi Webb to retire

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Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä

Category: Ports & Destinations Ports & Destinations

Published: 05 June 2026 05 June 2026

Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava yesterday announced key leadership transitions within her administration, reflecting her continued commitment to streamlining County government, aligning leadership with the County’s priorities, and delivering results for residents. The changes include the retirement of Chief Operating Officer Jimmy Morales, the appointment of Chief Roy Coley as Deputy Mayor, and an expanded role for Chief of Staff Christopher Hudtwalcker. Additionally, PortMiami Director Hydi Webb is retiring as Seaport Director after more than 30 years of service to Miami-Dade County.

“I am deeply grateful to Jimmy Morales and Hydi Webb for their extraordinary service to Miami-Dade County and our residents,” said Mayor Levine Cava. “Their leadership, integrity, and dedication have helped make our county stronger. As we look ahead, I am proud to appoint Roy Coley as Deputy Mayor with an expanded portfolio. Deputy Mayor Coley’s expertise and vision will be essential in delivering continued excellence for Miami-Dade County, strengthening accountability and driving greater efficiency across departments. My Chief of Staff, Christopher Hudtwalcker, will take on greater responsibilities as we continue strengthening our leadership team. These transitions reflect the strength of talent within our administration and our commitment to building a more resilient and prosperous Miami-Dade.”

Retirements of Jimmy Morales and Hydi Webb

Chief Operating Officer Jimmy Morales has served as a cornerstone of Miami-Dade County government, overseeing the day-to-day operations of the nation’s fourth-largest county. His distinguished career has been defined by operational excellence, fiscal stewardship, and a steadfast commitment to delivering results for residents. Mayor Levine Cava thanked Mr. Morales for his decades of public service and his pivotal role in guiding the County through periods of significant challenge and transformation. His retirement is effective immediately.

PortMiami Director Hydi Webb has been a dedicated public servant for more than three decades and has played a key role in advancing PortMiami’s growth and global competitiveness. Her leadership and collaborative approach have left a lasting mark on the County and one of its most important economic engines.

Deputy Port Director Frederick Wong will serve as Interim Director.

Thessaloniki makes its presence felt as a major cruise destination

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Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä

Category: Ports & Destinations Ports & Destinations

Published: 27 April 2026 27 April 2026

Strategic ambitions, a new terminal and congestion at nearby destinations are all giving impetus to cruise ship business at Greece’s second largest port, according to Cosmatos Group

The cruise sector has become a driving force for the growth of maritime services in Thessaloniki, as a new terminal takes shape at Greece’s second largest port and dredging work continues to support its ambitions to join the Eastern Mediterranean’s major destinations.

In March 2026, Port of Thessaloniki appointed Five Senses Consulting & Development to support the next phase of its cruise strategy and develop homeporting opportunities. The strategy looks to build on the port’s investment in the 'Alexander the Great' Cruise Terminal, which opened in 2023.

Coordinating efforts to add facilities, enhance safety measures and expand port services will be key to maintaining momentum in attracting more cruise lines and ships, including luxury vessels, according to Cosmatos Group – a leading shipping agency service provider based in Thessaloniki.

Continuous investment in infrastructure is improving the port’s ability to serve cruise vessels more efficiently, with a focus on accommodating larger ships and faster turnaround operations, according to Elisabeth Cosmatos, CEO, Cosmatos Group.
“Thessaloniki is relatively new to the cruise map, but it has quickly established its identity as an alternative to traditional destinations that have become congested, not least because it offers guests an equally rich entry point to Greek culture,” she said.

Cultural attractions

Thessaloniki is widely regarded as one of Greece’s top culinary destinations, while also offering a rich historical and cultural appeal. As the closest major port to the UNESCO-listed archaeological site of Vergina, the ancient capital of the Macedonian kingdom, visitors can explore the tomb of Philip II of Macedon, father of Alexander the Great. With more than 2,000 years of continuous history, Thessaloniki showcases a blend of Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman heritage. An important trading port since antiquity, the city derives its name from the stepsister of Alexander the Great.

Combined with access to destinations such as Mount Olympus, Meteora and the Halkidiki peninsula, the city offers cruise passengers a wide variety of cultural, historical and natural experiences within relatively short travel distances. A vibrant city of just over one million inhabitants, Thessaloniki also has a well-connected international airport a short distance from its port, making it suitable for turnaround calls and homeport operations.

Greece has long been a highly desirable cruise destination but some of the most popular places are beginning to show the strain, as ship calls increase and day visitor numbers climb. Popular destinations such as Santorini, Mykonos and even Piraeus have faced challenges in managing cruise ship port calls in recent times. Callers at Thessaloniki include Costa and Aida Cruises, Celestyal, Celebrity, Silver Seas, Emerald, Crystal, Seven Seas & Azamara.

Andreas Zikos, Cruise Department Head for Cosmatos Shipping Services said the six-strong dedicated Cosmatos agency team handled 53 cruise ship calls at Thessaloniki last year, generally of medium to large size vessels in terms of dimensions and guest capacity. The 90,940 gt Celebrity Infinity, for example, recorded 20 calls in 2025, carrying an average of about 2,100 passengers and 950 crew on each visit. The ship is scheduled to make another 23 calls in 2026, said Zikos.

Cosmatos takes care of berth reservations and port arrangements, vessel and crew clearance, mandatory port reports for a vessel’s approach and departure, arranges sailing permits required for final clearance, and handles all passenger documentation.

“We also coordinate a wide range of shore-based services, including technical assistance, transfers, provisions, concierge support, medical arrangements, deliveries, and crew embarkation and disembarkation,” said Zikos.

Service development

“We have observed a rise in requests for more complex services compared to the past when needs were mostly limited to basic provisions or crew changes. There has been an exponential increase in provisions, large-scale crew changes, personalized transportation and more complex requests driven by specific circumstances. These include large flower orders for occasions such as Valentine’s Day – this year we imported 1000 red roses from the Netherlands and delivered them onboard a Celestyal vessel – as well as floral arrangements for dinners and shuttle service requests.”

“All of these capabilities have proved vital in serving the noticeable increase in luxury cruise business that the port has been experiencing in recent years,” added Cosmatos. “That has also prepared us to take on new challenges. As an example, we successfully handled the first call by a cruise ship at Halkidiki [near Thessaloniki] at the peak of the 2025 tourist season for Crystal Cruises.” In addition, Cosmatos acts as subagents for Inchcape Shipping Services and for Wilhelmsen Port services, supporting their cruise ship calls.

Dealing with last minute changes has also become part of daily routine, she added. “We have leaned into the training for resilience that Cosmatos deploys in its wider logistics business. Good communication skills, procedural discipline and willingness to find solutions are transferrable skills.”

To ensure the highest level of service, the company maintains continuous communication with all relevant authorities combining digital tools with direct personal contact. Digitalisation has made operations more efficient, and decarbonisation and sustainability are increasingly factored in to port operations.

Thessaloniki participates in the Maritime Emissions Portal (MEP) pilot programme, which allows ports and shipping stakeholders to monitor emissions from incoming vessels and better understand their environmental footprint.

Primarily the country’s largest commercial port, Thessaloniki’s administration has traditionally been more oriented toward cargo than passenger services. As cruise call frequency continues to grow, authorities are becoming increasingly responsive to the needs of the sector, said Zikos.

“It is encouraging to see an evolution within the Greek public sector, which was traditionally associated with bureaucratic procedures and a limited customer-oriented approach; that is steadily changing as younger professionals enter the workforce.”
“Other factors also suggest the future is bright for Thessaloniki as a cruise destination,” added Cosmatos. “The growth in tourist numbers visiting the Greek islands can only be in our favour, for example. As well as our natural and cultural advantages, meanwhile, Thessaloniki is also a safe destination on the global map.”