Greenock Cruise Port Joins Global Ports Holding
Global Ports Holding Ltd. the world’s largest cruise port operator, has officially signed a 50-year agreement with Clydeport Operations Limited, a subsidiary of Peel Ports Group, to take over the operation of Greenock Cruise Port. This marks GPH’s expansion into Scotland and strengthens its presence in the UK market.
Following the addition of Liverpool Cruise Port in April 2024, Greenock becomes GPH’s second UK port, further bolstering its network in Northern Europe. This move enhances GPH’s role in key cruise routes connecting the UK, Ireland, and the Nordic region.
Under this agreement, GPH will oversee operations at Greenock Cruise Port, a critical entry point to Scotland, Northern Europe, and the Baltic. Positioned on the River Clyde, just 25 miles from Glasgow, the port provides seamless connections to Scotland’s cultural and natural landmarks. With excellent road and rail access, visitors can easily reach Glasgow’s renowned attractions and Edinburgh’s historic sites.
Greenock cruise port
Greenock Cruise Port has seen notable growth, hosting over 80 cruise calls in 2024, with further increases expected in the coming years. As a key player in the UK cruise industry, the port accommodates some of the largest cruise ships in the world and supports both homeport and transit operations. GPH aims to build on this success by expanding cruise operations, attracting more visitors, and fostering economic benefits for the surrounding community.
Scotland, known for its breathtaking scenery, historic sites, and famous whisky distilleries, remains a major draw for cruise travellers worldwide. From ancient castles to stunning landscapes such as Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, Greenock offers a gateway to some of Scotland’s most iconic locations.
Stephen Xuereb, Chief Operating Officer of Global Ports Holding, emphasized that Greenock Cruise Port is a significant addition to the company’s network, further strengthening its presence in Northern Europe. He highlighted his commitment to enhancing operations and improving the passenger experience, while actively collaborating with local partners to unlock the port’s full potential. Xuereb also expressed his enthusiasm for bringing the group’s expertise to Greenock and contributing to its ongoing success.
Mehmet Kutman, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Global Ports Holding, expressed his enthusiasm about welcoming Greenock Cruise Port into the company’s network as its first location in Scotland. He described the move as a significant milestone in GPH’s UK expansion strategy and reaffirmed the group’s commitment to strengthening cruise tourism in the region. Recognizing Scotland as a premier travel destination, Kutman emphasized the importance of collaborating with local stakeholders to enhance Greenock’s cruise infrastructure, foster sustainable growth, and deliver exceptional experiences for visitors to this remarkable country.
Greenock cruise port
Greenock Port
David Huck, Chief Operating Officer at Peel Ports Group, described the agreement as a significant step in the transformation of Greenock Cruise Port, reinforcing Scotland’s West Coast as a leading cruise destination. He highlighted that, since its opening, the terminal has welcomed some of the world’s largest cruise ships, contributing substantially to the local economy. Huck also emphasized that the partnership with Global Ports Holding reflects the outstanding efforts of their teams, along with Inverclyde Council, in positioning Greenock as a top-tier cruise port. He expressed pride in the achievements to date and confidence in the port’s future under GPH’s management and investment.
Councillor Michael McCormick, convener for environment and regeneration at Inverclyde Council, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, noting that Global Ports Holding’s decision to establish its first Scottish operation in Inverclyde is a strong vote of confidence in Greenock, the wider region, and its cruise terminal. He emphasized that GPH, as the world’s largest cruise port operator, brings exceptional experience and expertise that will build upon the excellent work already carried out by Peel Ports Group to develop the local cruise market. Councillor McCormick affirmed that GPH’s vision aligns with the council’s objectives of expanding cruise activity, attracting more visitors, and fostering economic growth throughout the Glasgow City Region. He highlighted that the partnership supports Inverclyde’s broader ambitions to drive investment, create jobs, and enhance the area as a vibrant place to live, work, and visit.
Martin McCluskey, MP for Inverclyde and Renfrewshire West, welcomed the announcement as a major boost for the region, describing the 50-year investment as a strong vote of confidence in Greenock and its potential to become a leading cruise destination. He noted that since taking office, he has been committed to ensuring the cruise industry serves as a driver of economic growth, and that this long-term agreement marks an important step in that direction. McCluskey also referenced his recent meeting with Global Ports Holding in Parliament, where he discussed their plans and expressed his satisfaction with their commitment to engaging local businesses and creating community opportunities. He highlighted that his recent roundtable on cruise tourism demonstrated a high level of interest from local enterprises in collaborating with the sector, and he looks forward to continuing efforts to ensure Inverclyde fully benefits from this partnership.
Msc Preziosa in Greenock
In May 2025, Greenock Cruise Port officially commenced operations under the management of Global Ports Holding (GPH) with the arrival of MSC Preziosa, marking the first call of the season as part of the global network of the world’s largest cruise terminal operator. The arrival was celebrated with a warm Scottish welcome: guests aboard MSC Preziosa were greeted by the sound of the bagpipes played by local musician John MacInnes, while the ceremony was attended by Captain Lorenzo Sapeti, Ian Kay, Operations Manager of Liverpool Cruise Port, and Gary Lyons, port agent from Denholm Port Services.
John Mawer, General Manager of the Greenock and Liverpool cruise ports, described this inaugural call under GPH’s leadership as “a moment of great pride for Greenock” and a testament to the hard work and dedication of all involved parties. He also expressed enthusiasm for the future and the positive impact Greenock Cruise Port will continue to have on the local economy and tourism.
Strategically located on the banks of the River Clyde, just 40 kilometers from Glasgow, Greenock Cruise Port offers an ideal gateway to some of Scotland’s most iconic cultural and scenic sites. With excellent road and rail connections, the port serves as a gateway to Glasgow, Edinburgh, and the Highlands, providing smooth and unforgettable excursion experiences for cruise guests.
This important milestone marks the beginning of a new chapter for Greenock Cruise Port and reinforces GPH’s commitment to continuously enhancing the passenger experience and promoting sustainable growth in cruise tourism in Scotland.
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