Ports & destinations

Virgin Voyages opens new terminal in PortMiami

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: Ports & Destinations Ports & Destinations; Published: 18 February 2022 18 February 2022

Virgin Voyages, Richard Branson’s epic new cruise line, celebrated the long-awaited grand opening of Terminal V at PortMiami on February 13th, ringing in the occasion with a mermaid-studded soirée. Sir Richard Branson, joined by Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava and Virgin Voyages’ CEO Tom McAlpin, made a splash with a memorable ribbon cutting ceremony marked by mermaid aerialists and a grand entrance via Virgin branded electric Moke vehicles.

With a street address of 718 N Cruise Blvd. – cleverly earmarked to celebrate Sir Richard Branson’s birthday on July 18 – the opening of Virgin Voyages’ own cruise terminal represents a major milestone in the brand’s history and the first time Scarlet Lady sailed from her new home.

“Coming to this beautiful new terminal and seeing Scarlet Lady in her home port here in Miami has been such an incredible experience. The team at Virgin Voyages has created a stunning building that delivers on our commitment to being better stewards of the earth with its LEED Gold Certification,” said Sir Richard Branson, founder of the Virgin Group.

Terminal V, an impressive three-story building on the northwestern corner of PortMiami, brings even more magic to the city with its unobstructed skyline views of Biscayne Bay, downtown and Edgewater. Yesterday, a little more than one year after the groundbreaking ceremony, Virgin Voyages invited local city officials and brand partners to celebrate the grand opening of the 132,000 square foot structure.

“We’ve always strived to turn the ordinary into the extraordinary, and Terminal V gives us greater opportunity to elevate the Sailor experience from the moment you see the AHOY sign to the time you disembark. Scarlet Lady deserves a home as beautiful as she is, and we cannot wait for our Sailors to begin their voyage at Terminal V,” said Virgin Voyages’ CEO, Tom McAlpin.

The geometric design, a palm grove where land meets sea, was inspired by Miami’s iconic palm trees and the area’s historical origins (formerly used for harvesting coconuts). The concept was developed by the award-winning, global architecture and landscape firm Arquitectonica and built from the ground up by Suffolk Construction. Terminal V’s rooftop resembles the edges of a palm canopy with angular cutouts that allow natural light to stream through. Enveloped by more than 1,000 palm trees, Terminal V features soaring floor-to-ceiling windows, natural skylights, and lush indoor landscaping that offers Sailors both a grand and warm welcome on their voyage.

Further inspired by the brand’s design ethos of the “Modern Romance of Sailing,” Terminal V’s interiors give a nod to mid-century design and are punctuated with emerald and ruby jewel tones. The space also incorporates changing LED screens, local artwork by the nonprofit organization Art in Public Places, and an al fresco terrace for Sailors to take in the sea breeze before embarkation. Outside, an expansive “Sail the Virgin Way” sign and dramatic red lighting mirror the city's lights.

Every Sailor is treated like a RockStar at Virgin Voyages, but for Sailors who’ve booked suite accommodations, they’ll gain access to Terminal V’s VIP entrance, expedited security screening and an exclusive pre-boarding lounge. The new cruise terminal also features a special Crew-only lounge where Virgin Voyages’ team can unwind, further demonstrating the brand’s commitment to creating the best gig ever for its employees. Rounding out the design are designated areas for drop offs, ride sharing and provisioning, all working together to provide a seamless shore-to-ship experience.

Terminal V illustrates Virgin Voyages’ commitment to preserving the environment, protecting our oceans and fulfilling its mission of creating an “Epic Sea Change for All” as one of the only LEED Gold certified buildings in PortMiami. Materials were meticulously selected with sustainability in mind, from the color of the pavers in the entrance way to the glass. Even the air conditioning and electrical systems were planned to reduce Terminal V’s impact on the planet.

Scarlet Lady, Virgin Voyages’ first ship and the winner of Cruise Critic’s “Best New Cruise Ship for 2021” Award, will call Terminal V her home year-round while Valiant Lady will join in the winter of 2022. Both ships will sail on a mix of multi-night itineraries to some of the most irresistible destinations in the Caribbean, each with a stop at Virgin Voyages’ signature Beach Club in Bimini.

AD Ports Group inaugurates new jetty at Sir Bani Yas Cruise Beach

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: Ports & Destinations Ports & Destinations; Published: 17 February 2022 17 February 2022

H.H. Sheikh Hamdan Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Ruler’s Representative in the Al Dhafra Region, today inaugurated AD Ports Group’s cruise jetty at Sir Bani Yas Cruise Beach

With the new jetty — equipped with eight mooring dolphins, firefighting equipment, and solar lighting — two vessels will be able to dock at the same time, which will enable more than 5,000 passengers to embark and disembark at an accelerated rate at Sir Bani Yas Cruise Beach.

The inauguration took place with MSC Virtuosa berthed at Sir Bani Yas Island as part of the ship’s regular 7-night cruises in the Arabian Gulf.

Developed by AD Ports Group, Sir Bani Yas Cruise Beach is renowned as the first and only dedicated cruise beach of its kind in the region offering a blend of relaxation and adventure to visitors. Previously, cruise ships set anchor about one kilometre offshore from the island and visitors were ferried to and from the beach via tender craft. The new jetty will significantly increase the capacity of the number of visitors to the island, reduce the time it takes to move to and from a vessel, as well as enhance the overall experience for cruise passengers.

H.H. Sheikh Hamdan Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Ruler’s Representative in the Al Dhafra Region emphasised that with the support of infrastructure and tourism projects, Al Dhafra region continues to work towards enhancing its position in the tourism sector, while also elevating its contribution to the growth of tourism and leisure sectors within the region.

His Highness noted the importance of these projects and their impact on various sectors, especially the private sector, which is of great importance in supporting the continued development of Al Dhafra region and fostering new opportunities.

He said: “Inspired by the Abu Dhabi Economic Vision and Plan Al Dhafra 2030, the opening of this new jetty is a milestone in Al Dhafra’s ambitious development plans. Economic diversification is fundamental to the long-term roadmap for the Emirate’s progress.

“We applaud AD Ports Group’s efforts in fostering this growth through world-class leisure and tourism infrastructure that will not only strengthen tourism across the GCC region but will also further reinforce Abu Dhabi’s position as a premier global tourism destination.”

H.E. Falah Mohammed Al Ahbabi, Chairman of AD Ports Group, said: “It is our privilege to welcome H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan to the opening of the new jetty at Sir Bani Yas Cruise Beach. We are grateful for his valuable support and contribution to the significant ongoing development of Al Dhafra region.

“The tourism sector, and cruise tourism in particular, plays a key role in driving economic diversification and sustainable development, with a significant impact on local, regional and national economies. With the creation of these enhanced facilities, we will be able to welcome more visitors to Sir Bani Yas Cruise Beach than ever before and offer a superior disembarkation experience for passengers, raising the profile of Abu Dhabi and the Al Dhafra region in particular for global travellers. Today marks an important step forward in our strategy to establish Abu Dhabi as one of the leading hubs in the world for cruise tourism.”

H.E. Saood Abdulaziz Al Hosani, Undersecretary of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), said: “The addition of the new jetty to the Arabian Gulf’s first dedicated cruise beach stopover at Sir Bani Yas Island reinforces and underlines Abu Dhabi’s commitment to expand its diverse tourism offering with enhanced infrastructure for the cruise sector. With easier access to this exclusive desert-island beach, the cruise experience is greatly improved for more visitors to enjoy, helping showcase Abu Dhabi as one of the world’s most exciting and fastest developing cruise destinations that complement a rich array of tourist options available across the emirate.”

Captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, Managing Director and Group CEO, AD Ports Group, said: "AD Ports Group continues to support the development of significant maritime, logistics and tourism projects within the UAE and across the region, because we recognise the wider benefits such strategic investments deliver for the economy and the community. By developing Sir Bani Yas Cruise Beach as a sustainable cruise destination, we are supporting our leadership’s vision”.

In 2019, prior to the global COVID-19 pandemic, the world cruise industry was valued at more than US$150 billion in direct and indirect revenues. With a strong recovery, we believe that it will achieve growth beyond that record and are working hard to ensure that Abu Dhabi builds its leadership position in this sector.”

Noura Rashid Al Dhaheri, Managing Director - Cruise Business, AD Ports Group, said: “The launch of the enhanced jetty at Sir Bani Yas Cruise Beach heralds an exciting new phase in the ongoing success story of Abu Dhabi’s cruise business, as we are now able to cater to the arrival of two cruise ships visiting one of the emirate’s most popular attractions at the same time.

“Exemplifying our efforts to support the nation’s thriving economy in line with the UAE’s “Year of the 50th” anniversary celebrations, we remain committed to developing ultra-modern facilities supporting cruise liners in the Middle East, all the while working diligently to enhance the overall visitor experience. We are thankful for the opportunity to elevate Abu Dhabi’s cruise offerings to new heights to drive the future growth of one of the UAE’s fastest-growing industries.”

Several of the world’s top cruise liners have resumed their cruise activities in Abu Dhabi, while visitors and guests from all over the world have begun to arrive to the UAE’s capital. Mein Schiff 6, a German TUI-owned cruise ship became the first cruise vessel to arrive at the Abu Dhabi Cruise Terminal in Zayed Port following the commencement of the current cruise season.

Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive Chairman of the Cruise Division of MSC Group, said: “We welcome the unveiling of a new jetty at Sir Bani Yas Cruise Beach, a key development that will aid operational efficiency at an increasingly popular stop on our Gulf itinerary.

“The commitment by AD Ports Group to spearhead the development of industry-leading facilities supporting cruise activities will undoubtedly contribute to the advancement of our highly popular and fast-growing industry as we at MSC Cruises look to strengthen our own position as the sector’s market leader in the Gulf by deploying the most modern ships to what is a key region for us in our ambitious global growth programme.”

Roula Jouny, Executive Director, Tourism 365 said: “As a key driver of promoting leisure tourism in the UAE, we work diligently to provide memorable experiences for guests. Thanks to the new jetty developed by AD Ports Group, which will enrich the overall cruise experience, we look forward to providing unique shore excursions and exemplary service to more guests than ever before at Sir Bani Yas Cruise Beach.”

Located in Abu Dhabi’s Al Dhafra Region, Sir Bani Yas Cruise Beach is the gateway to one of the UAE’s largest natural reserves open to the public. Rich with UAE heritage and natural marvels, the island offers a unique experience to its visitors. AD Ports Group has been supporting the ongoing development of Al Dhafra region. Its ports play a vital role in serving the local fishing industry, providing jobs for the local communities, and facilitating the current redevelopment on the surrounding islands.

Antigua hosts seven ships in port on one day

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: Ports & Destinations Ports & Destinations; Published: 09 February 2022 09 February 2022

Yesterday was a historical day for Antigua Cruise Port with seven ships in port. February 08, 2022, signaled the highest single day arrival not only since the commencement of Antigua Cruise Port, but in the history of Antigua and Barbuda.

Grandeur of the Seas of Royal Caribbean International, Britannia of P&O Cruises, Norwegian Epic of Norwegian Cruise Line, Mein Schiff 2 of TUI Cruises and Celebrity Equinox of Celebrity Cruises were collectively docked at the Nevis Pier, Heritage Quay Pier and the new fifth berth, while Star Legend of Windstar Cruises and Royal Clipper were berthed at Falmouth Harbour. The cruise calls combined for a total of 5,405 passengers. This special day has been preceded by countless five-ship days and therefore this seven-ship day is significant in its history.

“Today is historical for Antigua and Barbuda as we are able to accommodate five ships in the St. John’s Harbour and two ships at Falmouth,” said Rawle Reynolds, Operations Manager – Pier Services. “It shows that the cruise lines have not selected us by chance but have confidence in us as a destination. We have meticulously planned our port-side welcome to provide a superior guest experience and through collaboration with the Ministry of Health, Wellness and the Environment we ensure that all protocols are in place and adhered to.”

“Tour operators, taxi drivers, restaurants, shops, vendors, ship provisioners and suppliers would all benefit from today’s ship calls,” Reynolds continued. “Although the season started very modestly, it has greatly accelerated. Since our vaccination rate is commendable and our health protocols are strongly observed, these are amongst the reasons why we would be the destination of choice.”

Cruise industry to benefit from Portsmouth masterplan

Details: Written by Kari Reinikainen Kari Reinikainen; Category: Ports & Destinations Ports & Destinations; Published: 17 February 2022 17 February 2022

Facilities to handle cruise ships will be expanded at the Portsmouth International Port in the UK as part of a masterplan that extends to the year 2040, the port said in a statement.

“The cruise industry is expected to continue increasing in popularity and we want to be there to provide a premium service. However, we will soon be reaching our capacity. Our Masterplan identifies opportunities for crucial land, both close to the port’s boundary and beyond,” Mike Sellers, Portsmouth International Port’s director said in a statement.

There will be a phased approach to projects, with the terminal building starting spring, running alongside the green initiatives such as an immediate win providing shore power for smaller ships by the summer.

The port will welcome Brittany Ferries’ LNG powered Salamanca this spring.

Based on all the development in the Masterplan in ten years the local economy could see a growth of up to 89%, with Gross Value Add (GVA) at £357m, and the national economy with the same 89% rise to £739m. By 2042 this will increase to £387m for local GVA and £801m nationally, the port said..

MedCruise welcomes the re-opening of cruise and ferry between Greek and all Turkish ports

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: Ports & Destinations Ports & Destinations; Published: 08 February 2022 08 February 2022

On the 1st of October 2021, MedCruise was pleased to communicate the re-establishment of cruise itineraries between Greece, Galataport Istanbul and Kusadasi, Turkey, as a result of the decision of the Greek Government to remove the health restrictions. Further to continued and consistent work, as a second stage, the restrictions have been lifted up for all the Turkish ports and for the ferry activities too.

Today, MedCruise is pleased to communicate the re-establishment of cruise and ferry itineraries between Greece and all Turkish ports.

“MedCruise is happy for this development! Following strong collaboration with all stakeholders, we are pleased to communicate this news, which comes right on time for the cruise ports and cruise lines to organise the season ahead, while following all public health protection processes and guidelines.

Needless to remind that the scientific support of the European Union’s Healthy Gateways joint action team, headed by Prof. Christos Hadjichristodoulou coupled with CLIA Europe, the cruise lines, and MedCruise were all instrumental for this positive outcome.
"We, as MedCruise, will continue to develop activities and similar campaigns to support each and all of its members, facilitating the safety and sustainable growth of cruise activities in the Mediterranean and its adjoining seas," states MedCruise President Figen Ayan.