GPH: the new cruise investment plans
Global Ports Holding announced an ambitious program of international investments during the Seatrade Cruise Global event held in Miami on April 8, 2025.
This initiative, defined by a multimillion-dollar commitment, aims to consolidate and further develop the company’s network of ports, anticipating the future needs of the expanding global cruise industry.
The conference, entitled “Shaping Tomorrow’s Ports”, offered a platform for discussion and presentation among company executives, partners, and industry operators, with particular focus on the project underway in Saint Lucia, accompanied by the presence of Olympic athlete and local tourism ambassador Julien Alfred.
The global investment presented by GPH is part of a structured strategy designed to create innovative, sustainable, and technologically advanced port infrastructure, ensuring both operational efficiency and environmental responsibility.
Global Ports Holding in Miami, Seatrade Cruise Global 3
The focus is not only on improving physical infrastructure, but also on strengthening collaborations with local communities and tourist destinations, with the goal of promoting sustainable and long-term economic growth.
Mehmet Kutman, CEO of Global Ports Holding, emphasized the importance of this evolutionary phase for the cruise industry, describing the investment as an opportunity to create shared value and support the harmonious development of the serviced areas.
The investment program includes developments in strategic ports across different regions of the world. Among these are terminals recently inaugurated or being upgraded in Spain, such as those in Tarragona and Alicante, designed to enhance energy efficiency and the passenger experience.
Alicante Cruise Port, Spain
Tarragona Cruise Port, Spain
The Canary Islands, on the other hand, are witnessing the completion of a facility capable of hosting the largest cruise ships in the world, while in the Caribbean, expansion works are underway in ports such as Antigua and Nassau, aimed at enhancing both cruise infrastructure and recreational and commercial facilities.
The Port of San Juan in Puerto Rico is benefiting from significant infrastructure upgrades to maintain high operational and attractiveness standards.
Particular emphasis has been placed on the ongoing investments in Saint Lucia, aimed at transforming the port of Castries and the Pointe Seraphine area. This project includes wharf enhancements, the construction of a new waterfront promenade, and the development of a fishermen’s village in Banannes Bay. Additionally, new tender piers and onshore facilities are planned for Soufriere, with the aim of improving cruise passenger reception and services.
Las Palmas Cruise Port, Canary Islands
Nassau Cruise Port, The Bahamas
Lancelot Arnold, Director for the Eastern Caribbean and General Manager of Saint Lucia Cruise Port, highlighted how these investments are crucial to supporting the long-term development of cruise tourism on the island, while also strengthening relationships with local communities.
The event also had strong symbolic value thanks to the participation of Julien Alfred, Olympic champion of the 100 meters and tourism ambassador of Saint Lucia, whose commitment represents a model of excellence and dedication for the island.
Global Ports Holding expressed its support for social initiatives promoted by the athlete, donating a financial contribution for the creation of a foundation dedicated to supporting sports programs and growth opportunities for local youth.
The strengthening of public-private partnerships was another central topic, as outlined by Ernest Hilaire, Minister for Tourism, Investment, and Creative Industries of Saint Lucia.
Global Ports Holding in Miami, Seatrade Cruise Global 2
Global Ports Holding in Miami, Seatrade Cruise Global 4
He highlighted how the partnership with GPH serves as an effective model to stimulate economic growth and enhance the territory, confirming the intention to continue along this path to keep the island among the leading cruise destinations in the Caribbean Sea.
On the financial and environmental front, Global Ports Holding has adopted an approach that integrates sustainability as a fundamental pillar of its investment strategy.
Jan Fomferra, Chief Financial Officer of GPH, explained that each project is assessed not only for its economic return, but also for its social and environmental impact, thus ensuring a balance between financial performance and responsibility towards communities and the ecosystem.
The global multimillion-dollar program is therefore designed to make a positive and lasting contribution to the cruise industry and to the territories in which it operates, improving the travel experience and promoting sustainable development.
Global Ports Holding in Miami, Seatrade Cruise Global
Overall, the presentation by Global Ports Holding at Seatrade Cruise Global was a clear sign of leadership and strategic vision in the global cruise port market.
The focus on innovative projects, community inclusion, and the commitment to sustainability positions the company as a key player in leading the sector towards responsible and long-term growth, addressing the challenges and opportunities of an ever-evolving industry.
The commitment to future infrastructure, as well as the promotion of local talent and collaboration with public entities, confirms GPH’s central role in shaping the future of international cruise operations.
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