Ports & destinations

Global Ports Holding signs 24-year concession agreement for Acapulco Cruise Port in Mexico

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Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä

Category: Ports & Destinations Ports & Destinations

Published: 13 April 2026 13 April 2026

Global Ports Holding Limited, the world’s largest cruise port operator, has signed a 24-year operating concession agreement for Acapulco Cruise Port in Mexico, following its selection as the preferred bidder by the Administration of the National Port System Acapulco, S.A. de C.V. (ASIPONA).

Under the concession, Global Ports Holding will operate and develop the cruise terminal within a total concession area of approximately 17,199 square meters. As part of the project, GPH intends to implement phased investments to enhance cruise operations, improve passenger flow, and elevate the overall visitor experience.

The planned developments are expected to upgrade facilities and introduce new commercial and leisure offerings for cruise passengers visiting the destination. In addition, GPH will work closely with cruise line partners and local stakeholders to introduce new destination experiences and shore-side concepts that will further elevate Acapulco’s appeal as a unique port of call along Pacific/Mexican Riviera cruise itineraries.

In parallel with GPH’s planned investment, ASIPONA is expected to construct a brand new 350-meter cruise pier capable of berthing larger cruise vessels, using public resources, which will form part of the concession area once completed. The new berth is currently planned for completion in the first quarter of 2027, further strengthening the port’s capacity to accommodate modern cruise vessels.

Through these combined investments by GPH and ASIPONA, Acapulco is expected to strengthen its position as an important transit destination for cruise itineraries along the west coast of the Americas.

Acapulco is one of Mexico’s most iconic cruise destinations and holds a significant place in the country’s maritime history as its first port. With its rich heritage and strategic location, the destination is well positioned to benefit from increased cruise activity in the region.

Mehmet Kutman, Chairman and CEO of Global Ports Holding, said:
“Being awarded the concession for Acapulco Cruise Port represents an important milestone for Global Ports Holding as it marks our first port in Mexico. Acapulco is a destination with a rich history and strong potential within the regional cruise market. We believe that, through close cooperation with ASIPONA and local stakeholders, we can help unlock this potential and support the continued development of cruise tourism in the region. We look forward to working together with our partners and the local community to enhance the port’s facilities and deliver a high-quality experience for cruise passengers visiting Acapulco.”

Mike Maura, Regional Director Americas of Global Ports Holding, added: “Acapulco represents a strategic addition to our Americas portfolio and a destination with strong potential within Pacific itineraries. Together with ASIPONA and our local partners, we will focus on enhancing operational efficiency and the overall passenger experience, safety and security while supporting the destination’s re-positioning within the regional cruise landscape.”

The Retired Vice Admiral Raymundo Sánchez López, General Director of ASIPONA Acapulco, stated: “Acapulco is opening a new chapter in its development within the cruise sector. This step represents an opportunity to strengthen the destination’s presence in international routes and enhance the quality of the experience for visitors arriving at the port. We are confident that the joint work with Global Ports Holding will improve cruise operations and consolidate the Port of Acapulco as a key destination within Mexican Pacific cruise itineraries.”

By leveraging its global network, commercial expertise, and long-standing relationships with major cruise lines, Global Ports Holding aims to support the continued growth of cruise tourism in Acapulco and contribute to the long-term development of the destination.

GPH aims to commence operations in the second quarter of 2026, working closely with ASIPONA on the planning and technical preparations required for the project. The development is expected to deliver a modern cruise facility where port operations and commercial activities are integrated to support sustainable growth in cruise tourism.

 

Casablanca Cruise Port welcomes first-ever triple ship call

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Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä

Category: Ports & Destinations Ports & Destinations

Published: 29 March 2026 29 March 2026

Casablanca Cruise Port, operated by Global Ports Holding, has reached an important milestone with the successful handling of its first-ever triple ship call, reinforcing its position as a key gateway to Morocco and a growing hub within the global cruise network.

The triple call brought together Seven Seas Voyager (633 guests), Azamara Journey (635 guests), and La Belle des Océans (103 guests). This simultaneous operation showcased the port’s ability to maintain high service standards while managing complex logistics. To facilitate shore excursions, approximately 100 buses and 20 minibuses were deployed, allowing guests to explore iconic Moroccan destinations including Casablanca, Rabat, and El Jadida.

The milestone was commemorated with traditional plaque exchange ceremonies onboard. Ouadii Bouchana, General Manager of Casablanca Cruise Port, welcomed the ships' captains alongside port representatives, celebrating the strong partnership between the cruise lines and the port.

In addition to the triple call, the port recently welcomed Viking Vesta (956 guests) and Vidanta World Elegant (56 guests), bringing the total guest count for the period to over 2,300. This momentum is set to continue through the weekend with scheduled calls from Corinthian, Silver Ray, and Viking Jupiter.

"Hosting our first triple ship call is a significant milestone for Casablanca Cruise Port and a clear demonstration of our operational capability," said Ouadii Bouchana. "Beyond operational success, Casablanca offers guests seamless access to Morocco’s rich cultural heritage. As part of the Global Ports Holding network, we remain focused on delivering high-quality experiences while positioning Casablanca as a key regional gateway."

Beyond its operational readiness, Casablanca Cruise Port offers a compelling destination proposition. Its proximity to Mohammed V International Airport and upcoming rail connectivity makes it a strategic entry point for travelers. Whether exploring the architectural grandeur of Casablanca or the historic charm of Rabat and El Jadida, the port provides a high-value experience tailored to diverse itineraries.

As part of the Global Ports Holding network, Casablanca Cruise Port benefits from global expertise and a consistent operating framework. The port’s modern terminal infrastructure plays a central role in this success, providing a seamless, efficient, and welcoming environment for thousands of passengers simultaneously. This milestone triple call reflects not only the terminal's capacity and operational readiness but also its growing role in supporting the continued expansion of cruise tourism throughout Morocco.

MedCruise unveils landmark study mapping the real economic footprint of cruise tourism in the Mediterranean

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Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä

Category: Ports & Destinations Ports & Destinations

Published: 01 April 2026 01 April 2026

MedCruise, the largest cruise port association in the world, announces the launch of its Cruise Economic Impact Assessment Study, a major initiative aimed at providing a comprehensive, evidence-based understanding of the economic, social and environmental contribution of cruise tourism.

The project is conducted in cooperation with Professor Thanos Pallis of the Department of Maritime Studies at the University of Piraeus and brings together over 12 MedCruise Port Members from the Atlantic, West Mediterranean, Adriatic and East Mediterranean & Red Sea regions. This broad geographic coverage reflects the diversity of cruise destinations and market dynamics across the wider Mediterranean and beyond.

The participating ports include: Cabo Verde, Cartagena, Dubrovnik, Gibraltar, Kotor, Lavrio, Sardinian Ports, Sibenik, Taranto, Tarragona, Toulon Bay Ports, Volos and Western Sicilian Ports.

By combining robust data collection with in-depth analysis, the study seeks to generate actionable insights for port authorities, cruise lines, policymakers and local communities, supporting informed decision-making and sustainable growth.
Project Objectives

The Cruise Economic Impact Assessment Study aims to:

– Quantify the economic impact of cruise tourism, including direct, indirect and induced effects
– Identify opportunities for sustainable cruise development and enhanced local value creation
– Strengthen engagement with local communities by clearly communicating the benefits of cruise activity
– Provide guidance on increasing added value through employment generation, diversification of port activities and enhanced passenger experiences

Methodology

The study applies a robust, multi-dimensional methodology, combining quantitative and qualitative data to capture the full scope of cruise tourism impacts. Key elements include:

– Analysis of expenditure by cruise companies, passengers and crew members to map economic flows
– Assessment of value added and employment effects, including direct, indirect and induced impacts
– Evaluation of activity types, passenger profiles and port characteristics to better understand market dynamics and preferences

Data collection has commenced and will continue throughout the cruising year, ensuring a complete picture of seasonal and regional variations.

Expected outcomes

The results of the study will be consolidated and presented at Seatrade Cruise Global 2027, providing ports and stakeholders with a strategic roadmap to optimise the economic, social and environmental benefits of cruise tourism.

The study is expected to become a key reference point for evidence-based policymaking, sustainable cruise development strategies and constructive dialogue with local communities.

Voices from the project

Theodora Riga, President of MedCruise and President of Corfu Port Authority, commented: “Robust data is essential, but its true value lies in how it is communicated. Cruise tourism is multifaceted, with many perspectives and only a holistic approach can do justice to its real impact. Through this approach, MedCruise ensures that the entire story is told, enabling informed dialogue and balanced decision-making.”

Lorenzo Vera, Member of the MedCruise Board of Directors and Coordinator of the initiative, added: “This study marks a turning point in how we understand cruise tourism in the Mediterranean and its adjoining seas. By grounding the discussion in solid evidence and shared data, we are building a common framework that empowers ports and destinations to shape a more resilient and sustainable future.”

Professor Thanos Pallis, Department of Maritime Studies, University of Piraeus, stated: “This initiative will advance our understanding of the real impact of cruise activity on Mediterranean ports and destinations, generating valuable information for all. Creating a culture of evidence-based information and providing the framework for similar studies facilitates decision making and the much-needed dialogue between all stakeholders working for sustainable cruise growth”

Hamburg strengthens its lead in the cruise market

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Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä

Category: Ports & Destinations Ports & Destinations

Published: 18 March 2026 18 March 2026

A total of 1,416,715 cruise passengers departed from Hamburg during the 2025 season (compared to 1,301,295 passengers in 2024). With this increase, Hamburg continues to expand its role as one of Northern Europe’s leading cruise destinations. Germany’s busiest cruise port recorded 295 cruise ship calls (previous year: 266), from 46 different cruise ships, including three maiden calls and another 43 calls by river cruise vessels.

Dr Melanie Leonhard, Hamburg Minister [Senatorin] for Economy, Labor and Innovation, "Hamburg is not only an exciting destination for city visitors, but also an outstanding gateway for vacations. The Port of Hamburg continues its growth trajectory and solidifies its role as one of Northern Europe’s top cruise destinations. In addition to cargo, passenger shipping is an integral part of our port operations, bringing visitors to our city and contributing to Hamburg’s economic impact – both directly and indirectly, for example through revenues in tourism, hospitality, specialized suppliers, procurement, and jobs.”

Hamburg is also setting new benchmarks in sustainability. Shore power usage saw further gains in 2025: 162 cruise ships were supplied with emission-free energy during their stay – an increase of more than 25 percent compared to the previous year, representing a 71 percent utilization rate of all calls by shore power capable ships. Starting in 2026, shore power will be available at all three Hamburg cruise terminals – Altona, Steinwerder and HafenCity – four years ahead of the EU’s mandatory shore power requirement.

Jens Meier, CEO of the Hamburg Port Authority (HPA), “The continued rise in passenger numbers and vessel calls demonstrates Hamburg’s strong position in the international cruise market. At the same time, public acceptance of this growth is essential for the industry’s long-term development. The HPA therefore continuously invests in a high-performance, future-oriented port infrastructure, including modern terminals and a comprehensive shore power network. The fact that nearly two-thirds of all shore-power-capable ships are already using this service confirms our approach: in Hamburg, sustainability and growth go hand in hand.”

Simone Maraschi, Managing Director of Cruise Gate Hamburg GmbH, “With its three terminals, Hamburg offers cruise lines and guests a flexible, attractive and future-ready infrastructure. The high utilization of shore power demonstrates that cruise lines are fully committed to this approach. By equipping all cruise terminals with shore power, we provide clear framework conditions and strengthen Hamburg’s position as a sustainable port in international competition.”

The increasing number of vessel calls and passengers highlights Hamburg’s growing appeal as a cruise hub – not only for cruise lines and their guests, but also for many other sectors in Hamburg and the metropolitan region, including retail, hotels, restaurants, and cultural and leisure providers. The cruise business has become an increasingly important driver of the region’s economic and tourism development, generating measurable economic value. This is confirmed by a 2025 passenger survey conducted at Hamburg’s cruise terminals, which shows that Hamburg benefits more and more from its role as a national and international home port – the seasonal or year-round base where cruise ships begin their journeys.

Guests who start or finish their cruise in Hamburg spend an average of €133.59 during their stay, often stay in the city for several nights, and take advantage of dining, cultural, or shopping options in more than 70 percent of cases. Additionally, 38 percent of all cruise passengers now spend at least one night in Hamburg before or after their trip – nearly double the share from 2016 (20 percent).

For 2026, 331 cruise calls are scheduled between January and December, along with 47 river cruise calls. Eight maiden calls are expected, including the first visit of Virgin Voyages’ Valiant Lady to the Hanseatic city (additional maiden calls: Explora III, Midnatsol, Norwegian Sky, Majestic Princess, Liberty of the Seas, Scenic Eclipse II, and Mein Schiff Relax). The celebrations for the Hamburg Port Anniversary will take place from May 8 to 10, 2026.

Photo (from left to right): Jens Meier (CEO of the Hamburg Port Authority), Dr Melanie Leonhard (Hamburg Minister [Senatorin] for Economy, Labor and Innovation), Iris Scheel (Managing Director Cruise Gate Hamburg), Simone Maraschi (Managing Director Cruise Gate Hamburg). Credit: HPA/Christian Bruch