Ports & destinations

European Cruise Ports Associations strengthen cooperation and present joint survey findings at Seatrade Europe in Hamburg

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: Ports & Destinations Ports & Destinations; Published: 18 September 2025 18 September 2025

The Strategic Alliance of European Cruise Ports Associations reaffirmed its strong collaboration during Seatrade Cruise Europe 2025 in Hamburg, underscoring the importance of sustainable growth, innovation, and resilience across the cruise industry.

The associations came together for the panel session “European Port & Destination Associations: Community Engagement in Port Cities," moderated by Figen Ayan, Founder of Ayan Consulting and European Commission Expert, where they presented the main findings of their joint survey on the Impact of Cruise Tourism on Destinations. The panel featured Theodora Riga, President of MedCruise; Simone Maraschi, Chair of Cruise Europe; Kay Greenway, Director of Cruise Britain; Klaus Bondam, Director of Cruise Baltic; and Monica Berstad, Managing Director of Cruise Norway.

Launched collectively earlier this year, the survey sought to better understand the challenges posed by increasing tourism pressures on infrastructure, the environment, and local communities across Europe. The objective was to gather insights from member ports and destinations, identify best practices, and advocate for policies that support both the tourism sector and community well-being.

The results provide valuable insights into current trends and priorities:

– Management and restrictions – Most ports currently have no significant restrictions on cruise arrivals.
– Sustainability and environmental measures – Destinations are investing in infrastructure, tourist dispersal, and green initiatives such as shore power and environmental fees, though the pace of implementation varies.
– Collaborative sustainability efforts – Many ports are working closely with cruise lines and local stakeholders to develop sustainable shore excursions and diversify attractions beyond city centres.
– Investment in greener solutions – Ports are increasingly implementing green measures, reinforcing their commitment to long-term environmental performance.
– Strong economic contribution – Cruise tourism continues to generate significant revenue for local businesses and create employment in the tourism sector.
– Cruise tourism, in terms of volume, accounts for only a very small share of the overall tourism handled by most of our members.

In addition to the panel, the Associations held a dedicated meeting during Seatrade Cruise Europe to review their joint initiatives and discuss next steps. Looking forward, they confirmed their determination to continue working together on key areas such as environmental performance, data sharing, and community engagement — ensuring that Europe’s cruise destinations remain competitive, attractive, and sustainable.

Hamburg opens new Cruise Center HafenCity

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: Ports & Destinations Ports & Destinations; Published: 13 September 2025 13 September 2025

Cruise Gate Hamburg (CGH), the operator of Hamburg’s cruise terminals, officially inaugurated the new Cruise Center HafenCity, on Friday, September 12. Located in the heart of the HafenCity district, the state-of-the-art terminal strengthens Hamburg’s position as a leading cruise destination.

Attended by distinguished guests from the global cruise community, tourism, politics, business, and civil society, the opening ceremony marked a significant milestone in the city’s cruise development. The celebration was enhanced by the presentation of the Kreuzfahrt Guide Awards, hosted by the Hamburger Abendblatt, and concluded with the ceremonial departure of Hapag-Lloyd Cruises´ Europa from the new terminal.

Following a soft opening phase, the terminal is now fully operational. It features two berths (345m and 230m) and offers space to process both smaller and larger ships. The vertically organized building spans 10,300 m² across four levels – including two underground levels for taxi, car, and bus access, and two above-ground levels for passenger operations.

Cruise Center HafenCity offers a unique arrival experience. Ships sail past the historic Landungsbrücken and the iconic Elbphilharmonie before docking in the heart of HafenCity, offering a scenic and memorable entry into the city. Seamlessly integrated into the vibrant Westfield Hamburg-Überseequartier, the terminal provides direct access to a dynamic mix of retail, dining, and cultural attractions. Highlights include the immersive art experience Port des Lumières, the newly opened LEGO Discovery Centre, and close proximity to Hamburg’s most famous landmarks such as the UNESCO-listed Speicherstadt and Miniatur Wunderland. As part of HafenCity’s multimodal mobility concept, the terminal benefits from excellent public transport connections – including its own dedicated subway station. This significantly reduces private vehicle traffic and ensures convenient, sustainable access to the city center and beyond.

Hamburg’s First Mayor Dr. Peter Tschentscher: “Cruise passengers can access the heart of our city directly through the Cruise Center HafenCity. In just a few minutes, they can reach the downtown area and historic sites by subway, bus, or on foot. Thus, cruise tourism stimulates both HafenCity and the city center, which offer visitors a wide range of restaurants, retail outlets, cultural attractions, and entertainments. Using shore power at the cruise terminals makes cruise ships' stays in the Port of Hamburg climate- and environmentally friendly. I wish Cruise Gate Hamburg every success with the new terminal and hope all cruise guests have a wonderful time in Hamburg!”

Iris Scheel, Managing Director of CGH, “Hamburg’s approach challenges the notion that cruise infrastructure must be pushed to the periphery. Instead, it demonstrates how a well-planned urban integration can create value for both the city and the industry. Building this terminal in the city centre was possible through close collaboration with stakeholders and strong support from the local community and political leadership. It is a statement proving how deeply rooted cruise tourism is in Hamburg. We extend our sincere thanks to everyone involved who made this vision become a reality.”

Simone Maraschi, Managing Director of CGH, “With the Cruise Center HafenCity, Hamburg continues to strengthen its position as a leading cruise hub in the European market. As the city’s third permanent terminal, it reflects our strong belief in the continued growth and relevance of cruise tourism as an integral part of Hamburg’s maritime economy. The terminal supports Hamburg’s long-term strategy of generating added value for the city with the cruise sector – through premium passenger services, meaningful integration into the urban environment, and a clear commitment to sustainable growth and innovation.”

Dr Andreas Kleinau, Chairman of the Management Board of HafenCity Hamburg GmbH, “Together, the HafenCity Cruise Center and the vibrant Westfield Hamburg-Überseequartier complete central HafenCity in a fitting way. Here, Hamburg’s expanded city centre, complemented by a unique mix of functions, touches the shores of the River Elbe for the first time. We are very happy to see this innovative city district become a place for everyone to enjoy, enriching urban life at HafenCity.”

With the Cruise Center HafenCity, Hamburg continues to be a European pioneer in developing shore power infrastructure in its port. By 2026, the new terminal will be equipped with shore power technology, enabling vessels to connect to clean electricity while docked. This development aligns with Hamburg’s strategic goal of providing shore power at all permanent cruise terminals – a target the city will meet four years ahead of the EU-wide mandate. Already today, there is high acceptance of shore power usage, with binding agreements in place with major cruise line operators. From 2027 onward, the city expects shore power-capable vessels calling at Hamburg to make consistent use of the technology wherever technically feasible.

In 2025, a total of 48 cruise calls are scheduled at the new Cruise Center HafenCity – including 18 during the test phase prior to the official opening and 30 additional calls by year-end. For 2026, the number is set to nearly double, with 94 calls already confirmed. Across all three terminals – HafenCity, Steinwerder, and Altona – Hamburg expects approximately 300 cruise ship arrivals this year.

The new facility also reinforces the economic and tourism relevance of the cruise industry for the city. As a recognized growth sector, the cruise industry plays a vital role in Hamburg’s economy and tourism sector – supporting 4,490 jobs in the service industry and contributing €419.7 million to gross value added according to an official study based on pre-pandemic data from 2018. In response to Hamburg’s dynamic development as a cruise destination in recent years, a new economic impact study is currently conducted by the Ministry of Economy and Innovation of the Free and Hanseatic City of Hamburg together with CGH and Hamburg Cruise Net.

Key figures of the new terminal

– Total Area: Approx. 10,300 m², including around 4,000 m² on the operational ground level.
– Terminal Layout: Vertically organized with one operational level (ground floor) for boarding and disembarkation, and two lower levels for access by taxis, private vehicles, and buses.
– Berths for different ship sizes: Two berths measuring 345m and 230m in length, with a maximum draught of 10.3m.
– Parking Facilities: 1,500 parking spaces within the Westfield Hamburg-Überseequartier.
– Seamless Mobility: Directly connected to the Hamburg public transport network via dedicated underground station, bus and taxi terminal.
– Shore Power Infrastructure: Available from 2026, two power points (high voltage) for simultaneous supply of two vessels (one large and one smaller vessel), according to norm IEC/IEEE 80005-1, Power output: up to 14 MVA (Megavoltampere) from 100% renewable energy
– Architects: Hillmer und Richter Architekten GmbH, Hamburg.
– Event Venue Availability: Distinctive waterfront setting with excellent transport links and nearby amenities available for corporate events

French Atlantic Ports to showcase their destinations at Seatrade Europe next week

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: Ports & Destinations Ports & Destinations; Published: 03 September 2025 03 September 2025

The French Atlantic Ports (FAP) invite the international cruise community to discover the best of France’s Atlantic and Channel shores at Seatrade Europe 2025, Cruise Europe Pavilion #334. Since 1992, the French Atlantic Ports have united nine complementary destinations: Le Havre, Rouen, Honfleur, Caen-Ouistreham, Cherbourg, Saint-Malo, Brest, Nantes Saint-Nazaire, and Bordeaux. Together, they welcome over, 450 cruise calls annually, connecting more than 915,000 passengers to world-class port operations and unforgettable French experiences.

Each port offers a gateway into France’s rich heritage. Cruise passengers can stroll through UNESCO-listed sites, explore centuries of architectural and maritime history, savour renowned gastronomy, ciders, and wines, and immerse themselves in vibrant cultural scenes. From historic city centres to scenic coastal landscapes, every destination contributes to a diverse, complementary, and authentic experience, ensuring each stop leaves a lasting impression.

The French Atlantic Ports are leading the transition to greener cruise operations. Investments include modern passenger terminals, optimized logistics, and expanded shore power infrastructure, supporting the EU Fit for 55 climate objectives and preserving the stunning coastlines that make France’s Atlantic and Channel regions so appealing.

From transit calls to full turnarounds, the FAP cluster offers cruise lines unmatched operational flexibility. Their complementary network ensures that every itinerary can be tailored for efficiency, passenger satisfaction, and the timeless charm of French culture and lifestyle.

Port of Helsinki to renovate and expand the historic Katajanokka ferry terminal

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: Ports & Destinations Ports & Destinations; Published: 09 September 2025 09 September 2025

Helsinki’s iconic harbour building, Katajanokka Terminal, which was completed in 1937, is to be renovated. The protected building, designed by Gunnar Taucher, will be renovated and expanded with an extension that will respect the original architecture and the surrounding cityscape while providing services for both passengers and locals.

The Port of Helsinki has signed a planning agreement that will take the renovation to the concrete phase. The planning will be carried out by Helin & Co Architects, with the participation of engineering and architecture consultancy Sweco. The work will begin in autumn 2025.

Two ferry companies to share same terminal

Port traffic in Helsinki will be undergoing some major changes in the coming years. The city centre harbours serve both passengers and freight, and the arrangements for the coming years will change both passenger routes and the flow of freight:

– Tallinn traffic will be moved to the West Harbour
– Stockholm traffic will be centralised to the renovated Katajanokka Terminal
– The South Harbour will be freed up for the use of international cruise ships and for the needs of the city’s residents, including the new Museum for Architecture and Design.

In the future, Katajanokka Terminal will serve two shipping companies whose ships sail to Stockholm: Viking Line and Tallink Silja Line. The first step in the planning process is to identify space needs and ensure that the planned solutions support both the operations of the shipping companies and the smooth movement of passengers.

“In the future, Katajanokka Terminal will not only be a gateway to Stockholm, but also a shared place for the city’s residents. The aim is to create an environment that serves passengers while providing facilities and services for the everyday lives of Helsinki residents,” says Kaj Takolander, VP Passenger Services at the Port of Helsinki.

Cooperation to start immediately

The renovation project will be carried out in close cooperation with the City of Helsinki, including various land use planning actors and the City Museum, to ensure that the historic building is preserved and the extension is carried out in a way that respects the environment.

Timetable

– Autumn 2025: planning starts
– Spring 2026: initial data for the land use planning process ready
– Construction work in 2028–2032
– The aim is to have the new terminal operational by 2032.

Global Ports Holding welcomes Steve Finnigan new General Manager of Prince Rupert Cruise Port

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: Ports & Destinations Ports & Destinations; Published: 31 August 2025 31 August 2025

Global Ports Holding (GPH) has announced the appointment of Steve Finnigan as the incoming General Manager of Prince Rupert Cruise Port (PRCP), effective September 1, 2025.

Steve is a proud multigenerational resident of Prince Rupert and brings extensive expertise in maritime shipping, vessel operations, commercial strategy, and account management. His career achievements include proven success in revenue growth, business development, and cost management. He has collaborated closely with local community stakeholders and national agencies such as Transport Canada, the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), the Chamber of Shipping, and the Prince Rupert Port Authority.

Formerly President of G.W. Nickerson in Prince Rupert, Steve began his career as a Vessel Operations Agent before advancing to Operations Manager and then President. He also holds the role of Superintendent at Pacific Stevedoring and Contractors Ltd.

Born and raised in Prince Rupert, Steve holds degrees from the University of Northern British Columbia (Prince George) and Capilano University (North Vancouver). He is married and the father of two children.

“We are delighted to welcome Steve to the GPH family,” said Mike Maura, Jr., Regional Director, Americas, at Global Ports Holding. “His deep roots in the community, combined with his maritime expertise and leadership experience, will be invaluable as we continue to build on the success and potential of Prince Rupert Cruise Port.”

At the same time, GPH bids a farewell to Kevin D’Costa, who will be departing his role as General Manager of Prince Rupert Cruise Port following the close of the 2025 cruise season.

Kevin joined GPH in June 2022 and immediately set to work elevating Prince Rupert as a must-visit cruise destination. Over the past three years, his leadership has been instrumental in driving the port’s growth and enhancing the visitor experience. His contributions include establishing new shore excursions, overseeing port tariff development and management, implementing key operational policies, advancing business development, optimizing port operations, and fostering strong relationships with cruise lines calling on Prince Rupert.

Maura, Jr., reflected on Kevin’s extensive contributions to the GPH team, stating, “Anyone fortunate enough to work alongside Kevin knows his deep passion for the destination and the people who call it home. His unwavering commitment, vision, and pursuit of excellence have left a lasting mark on the port, the community, and the GPH family. As Kevin embarks on an exciting new chapter, we extend our sincere gratitude for his service and wish him every success in his future endeavours.”