GPH Strengthens Its Commitment in the Caribbean
Global Ports Holding (GPH) has officially reinforced its presence in the Caribbean tourism sector by joining the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) as an allied member. This strategic step confirms GPH’s commitment to promoting sustainable and inclusive development of the cruise industry in the region, benefiting local economies and communities.
The company operates key ports across the Caribbean, including Nassau in The Bahamas, Antigua & Barbuda, San Juan in Puerto Rico, and Saint Lucia, welcoming over 8 million passengers annually. These figures are part of a global network of 33 ports, with a total traffic of approximately 22 million cruise passengers. Through significant investments aimed at improving infrastructure, port services, and traveler experience, GPH has played a decisive role in revitalizing the regional cruise tourism sector post-pandemic. The recognition by the CTO highlights the central importance of cruise tourism to the Caribbean economy. The organization strongly supports initiatives that enhance the quality of the tourism experience while ensuring economic benefits flow directly to local communities.
Nassau
Antigua port
As an allied member, GPH will share its expertise in port development, sustainability, and community engagement, contributing to the CTO’s goal of establishing the Caribbean as a preferred year-round cruise destination.
Mehmet Kutman, Chairman and CEO of Global Ports Holding, stated that joining the CTO is an honor and emphasized the strategic role of the Caribbean in the global cruise industry. He also highlighted the intention to collaborate with the organization to foster innovation, create entrepreneurial opportunities, and promote sustainable and responsible tourism development.
Mike Maura Jr., Regional Director for the Americas at GPH and CEO of Nassau Cruise Port, outlined the concrete results achieved through the company’s investments. In Nassau, passenger flows have exceeded pre-pandemic levels, with 4.4 million arrivals in 2023 and a forecast of 5.6 million for 2024, following a $300 million redevelopment project. Major upgrades are also underway at the ports of San Juan, Antigua & Barbuda, and Saint Lucia, promising similar improvements.
San juan
Sain Lucia Cruise port
A team of GPH executives participated in the Caribbean Week summit organized by the CTO in New York from June 1 to 6, 2025. The event gathers key players from tourism, technology, media, and marketing sectors to discuss the region’s challenges and opportunities. Through this membership, GPH aims to strengthen its contribution to policies, research, and collaborations that drive the success and growth of Caribbean tourism.
Global Ports Holding’s membership in the Caribbean Tourism Organization marks a pivotal milestone for the future of cruise tourism in the Caribbean. Thanks to targeted investments, innovation, and a focus on sustainability, GPH confirms itself as a key partner in enhancing the region as a premier tourist destination, while ensuring positive impacts for local communities and the regional economy. This collaboration represents a shared vision of growth, resilience, and prosperity for the Caribbean tourism sector.
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