GPH and Acapulco: A New Cruise Hub
Global Ports Holding, the world’s largest cruise port operator, has signed a 24-year concession agreement for the management and development of the Acapulco cruise port in Mexico. The agreement follows its selection as the preferred bidder by the national port authority ASIPONA and represents a strategic step in the group’s expansion across the Americas cruise market.
Under the concession, Global Ports Holding will be responsible for managing and developing the cruise terminal, which covers an area of approximately 17,199 square meters. The company plans a phased investment program aimed at improving operational efficiency, optimizing passenger flow, and enhancing the overall visitor experience. Planned initiatives include infrastructure upgrades as well as the introduction of new retail and leisure areas dedicated to cruise passengers.
GPH Acapulco
At the same time, collaboration with cruise lines and local stakeholders will be strengthened to develop new shore-side experiences, further positioning Acapulco as a strategic port of call within Pacific and Mexican Riviera cruise itineraries.
Another key element of the project is the construction by ASIPONA of a new 350-meter pier capable of accommodating larger vessels. This publicly funded infrastructure will become part of the concession area upon completion, currently scheduled for the first quarter of 2027.
Through these combined investments, Acapulco aims to strengthen its role as a key destination along cruise routes on the west coast of the Americas. Historically Mexico’s first port and one of its most iconic destinations, the city benefits from a strategic location and a well-established tourism heritage.
The Chairman and CEO of Global Ports Holding emphasized that the award of the Acapulco cruise port concession marks a significant milestone for the company, as it represents its first entry into the Mexican port market. He highlighted Acapulco’s strong historical significance and considerable potential within the regional cruise sector. He also noted that close collaboration with ASIPONA and local stakeholders will be essential to unlocking this potential and supporting the continued growth of cruise tourism in the region. He further expressed the company’s commitment to working alongside partners and the local community to enhance port infrastructure and deliver a high-quality passenger experience.
The Regional Director Americas of Global Ports Holding stated that Acapulco represents a strategic addition to the company’s portfolio in the Americas and a destination with strong potential within Pacific itineraries. He added that, together with ASIPONA and local partners, the focus will be on improving operational efficiency, passenger experience, and safety standards, while supporting the destination’s repositioning within the regional cruise landscape.
The General Director of ASIPONA Acapulco highlighted that the city is entering a new phase of development in the cruise sector. He described the initiative as an opportunity to strengthen Acapulco’s presence on international routes and enhance the quality of the visitor experience. He also expressed confidence that collaboration with Global Ports Holding will improve port operations and consolidate Acapulco’s role as a key destination within Mexican Pacific cruise itineraries.
GPH_Acapulco
The launch of the concession and the planned investments outline a significant transformation for the Port of Acapulco, which aims to become a modern and competitive cruise hub. The integration of port infrastructure and commercial activities, together with public-private cooperation, will form the foundation for sustainable growth in cruise tourism across the region.
Global Ports Holding expects to commence operations in the second quarter of 2026, marking the beginning of a long-term project designed to strengthen Acapulco’s position in the global cruise industry.
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