Ports & destinations

Cruise shipping in Hamburg reaches a major milestone

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: Ports & Destinations Ports & Destinations; Published: 22 November 2023 22 November 2023

For the first time Hamburg has passed an historical milestone in its cruise shipping history. On 12 November 2023 Hamburg welcomed the one-millionth cruise passenger when the MSC Euribia docked in the Hanseatic city. The winner and his family were greeted at the Cruise Center Steinwerder by the management and the team of Cruise Gate Hamburg GmbH (CGH) and other leading figures of the city as well as from the political and media worlds.

Simone Maraschi, Managing Director of CGH, emphasised just how important the event was. "Welcoming the one-millionth guest is a very special moment that is not only important to us as the operators of the city’s cruise terminals but to our partners and the city of Hamburg as well. The cruise industry has quickly recovered from the pandemic, and Hamburg has become an attractive all-year-round cruise destination, in particular due to winter cruising. Trips to appealing destinations beginning from the Port of Hamburg offered by the shipping companies in the cold months are highly popular. We wish the one-millionth guest and all future visitors unforgettable cruise trips to and from Hamburg.”

Dr Peter Tschentscher, First Mayor of the Free and Hanseatic City of Hamburg: "One million cruise passengers within one year – this number demonstrates how attractive Hamburg is for international cruises and tourism. The industry is an important pillar for the economy and the attractiveness of our city. Many cultural, sports and leisure activities are made possible by tourism and are equally attractive for both, the local residents of Hamburg, as well as our guests from abroad. The Senate and the cruise lines are committed to more climate and environmental protection. Cruise ships are equipped with modern, more environmentally friendly propulsion systems and are increasingly using shore power during their stay in port. Hamburg is the leading port in Europe in the installation of shore-side power technology. All cruise and large container terminals are being equipped with shore power connections."

The lucky four-member family – the parents travelled with their two little children – were waiting at the terminal to board the newest MSC ship, when they were surprised by Iris Scheel and Simone Maraschi, Managing Directors of CGH, who congratulated the family together with Dr Peter Tschentscher, First Mayor of the Free and Hanseatic City of Hamburg, Christian Hein, Managing Director of MSC Cruises Germany, and other stakeholders, and were presented with an adventure holiday package in Hamburg.

The MSC Euribia, which recently celebrated her maiden call at Hamburg on 8 October 2023, is the second LNG-powered vessel of the MSC fleet. The ship can be connected to shore power. Hamburg is firmly committed to expanding its shore power infrastructure and will continue this strategy. It is currently building a new alternative marine power station at Cruise Center HafenCity, which is expected to start operations in the spring of 2025. From 2025, Hamburg will be one of the first European ports that offer environmentally-friendly shore power at all permanent terminals.

On the occasion of welcoming the one-millionth cruise passenger CGH presented a list of the calls planned for 2024. After the 2023 season, which at 280 calls by the end of the year will be the season with the most calls so far, 2024 is currently expected to see 270 calls. Among others, ten cruise ships will be on their maiden voyages to Hamburg (Azamara Onward, Costa Favolosa, Mein Schiff 7, National Geographic Explorer, Ocean Albatros, Queen Anne, Seabourn Quest, Sirena and Sky Princess), including one from Disney Cruise Line whose Disney Dream is scheduled to call at Hamburg for the first time on 3rd of September 2024.

Record year for cruise and cargo operations in Port Canaveral

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: Ports & Destinations Ports & Destinations; Published: 16 November 2023 16 November 2023

Capt. John Murray, Port Canaveral CEO, presented a comprehensive overview of the Port's strong performance in Fiscal Year 2023 and expressed a positive outlook for the upcoming FY 2024 during his annual "State of Port" address on Nov. 8 at Cruise Terminal 1.

In highlighting the Port's economic significance, Capt. John Murray stated, "This Port is an economic powerhouse in the state of Florida. Central Florida benefits immensely from our operations, with numerous jobs created, businesses thriving, and increased tourism. We play a crucial role in supporting Florida's tourism industry."

Capt. Murray showcased the Port's substantial economic impact on the region and for the state in the last year. The Port contributed a total of $6.1 billion to the state's economy, driving 42,700 jobs with $2.1 billion in wages. Additionally, the Port generated $189.5 million in state and local tax revenues.

Currently the world's busiest cruise port, Port Canaveral set an all-time high with 6.8 million cruise passengers in FY 2023, homeporting 13 ships, and receiving 906 ship calls. The Port's operating revenue reached a record-breaking $191 million, including a record-breaking $158 million from cruise operations.

Capt. Murray emphasized the Port's success, stating, "This is a significant jump from last year when we finished the year at $127 million. It has been quite a year at this Port."

Cargo business was robust in FY 2023, with the Port handling 3.7 million tons in petroleum, 1.9 million tons in aggregates, nearly a million tons in lumber, and an additional 533,000 tons of general products, totaling just under 7 million tons.

Other developments on the cargo side included completing the renovation of the Port’s North Cargo Berth 3 (NCB3) in June and immediately put into service and the construction underway to rebuild adjacent North Cargo Berth 4 (NCB4), expected to be completed in late 2024. Both berths will add 1,800 feet of space to help meet the growing demands of the cargo industry.

Looking ahead to 2024, Port Canaveral is poised for exciting developments. The Port will homeport 13 cruise ships, hosting 7.3 million passengers and anticipating 913 ship calls.

To accommodate increased cruise traffic, the Port is investing $78 million from its FY 2024 Capital Projects budget in Port-wide parking improvements. On the cargo front, steady volumes in bulk and breakbulk cargos are expected, along with increased space launch recovery operations. The Port plans on investing $182 million in capital improvements for FY 2024, part of the $500 million 5-year Capital Improvement Plan.

Other enhancements will include a new camp store, pavilion renovations, road paving, and RV site upgrades at the Port’s Jetty Park.

Capt. Murray expressed enthusiasm for the future, stating, “We’re very excited for the future. We have some great assets coming online in the next few years and a lot of surprises for the business as a whole."

Abu Dhabi welcomes first cruise ship commencing 2023-24 cruise season

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: Ports & Destinations Ports & Destinations; Published: 01 November 2023 01 November 2023

AD Ports Group, the leading facilitator of global trade, logistics, and industry, has announced the official start of the 2023-24 cruise season with the arrival of the cruise ship, Crystal Symphony docking at Abu Dhabi Cruise Terminal, Zayed Port.

This upcoming cruise season promises significant growth with Abu Dhabi Cruise Terminal slated for 126 calls, starting on 01 November. Additionally, Sir Bani Yas Cruise Beach is set to host 63 calls, having welcomed the first on 31 October. Notably, nine of these calls will be maiden voyages, signaling ships making their inaugural visit to Abu Dhabi.

Noura Rashed Al Dhaheri, Chief Executive Officer of Cruise Business, AD Ports Group, said: “We are excited to announce the official start of cruise season here in Abu Dhabi with the arrival of Crystal Symphony. Last season, Zayed Port emerged as the busiest cruise port in the region; a testament to Abu Dhabi's position as a premier tourist destination, and the exceptional infrastructure that effortlessly accommodates the region's largest vessels. We remain dedicated to partnering with cruise lines to elevate Abu Dhabi’s global cruise destination standing.”

In alignment with the Group’s commitment to bolster Abu Dhabi's event calendar, Abu Dhabi Cruise Terminal is poised to receive over 7,000 visitors during Formula 1 Abu Dhabi, providing them with world-class hospitality

Abu Dhabi Cruise business, part of the Ports Cluster, has expanded its operations to the Red Sea with the successful inauguration of the Aqaba Cruise Terminal, in January 2023.

In the 2022- 23 season, Abu Dhabi Cruise Terminal recorded over 600,000 visitors arriving in Abu Dhabi, with more than 82,000 passengers starting their journey from Abu Dhabi. The first quarter of 2023 was particularly strong with 363,494 visitors and 120 calls recorded compared to Q1 of 2022, which saw 89,953 visitors and 60 calls. Passenger volumes for Q1 2023 surpassed the number of visitors accommodated for the full year of 2022 by more than 37%.

Abu Dhabi Cruise Terminal was launched in December 2015, providing a well-located base for cruise-liner passengers, enabling them to explore and experience the UAE capital. The Cruise Terminal is furnished with restaurants, retail outlets, duty-free shops, Etihad Airline check-in, and baggage storage.

Construction of cruise terminal works begin in the Canary Islands

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: Ports & Destinations Ports & Destinations; Published: 16 November 2023 16 November 2023

On Monday, November 6th works begin simultaneously with the construction of the cruise terminals in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Lanzarote and Fuerteventura on behalf of Global Ports Canary Islands with an investment over 40 million Euros. Construction of specialized cruise facilities will positively contribute to the transformation of the sector with a remarkable impact in the local economy. The project will optimize Guest experienced at port by customer oriented-services, by enhancing at the same time the sustainable development of the cruise industry at the islands.

The project has been entrusted to SATOCAN a leading Canarian construction company in the sector, whose history dates back to the construction of maritime works in the Canary Islands more than four decades ago. The company combines this port experience with a proven solvency in the execution of all types of works in the Archipelago. This trajectory, together with its priority objective of fulfilling the commitments made to customers and suppliers, make SATOCAN the trusted construction company to carry out these works.

Commitment to the environment with significant economic impact

Global Ports Canary Islands demonstrates its clear commitment to sustainability and environment with the construction of four cruise terminals focused on recycled and ecological materials to minimize wastes, by preserving natural resources and habitat and minimizing environmental impact.

In addition, cutting-edge technologies and innovative practices will be incorporated to achieve a minimal carbon footprint and the maximization of renewable resources.

Planned constructions will be an example of eco-efficiency sustainable infrastructure for the cruise sector that will count with a functional design in favour of sustainability by combining solar energy, recycled materials, and waste management.

All above mentioned will have a positive impact in each city, resulting in a remarkable growth of tourism on the islands and economic development at the local level in a sustainable and responsible way.

Las Palmas: efficiency & innovation

The biggest project will be in Las Palmas de Gran Canarias, one of the busiest cruise port in Spain. The terminal will be located in Santa Catalina Pier with an innovative two-storey

building of 14,000 m2 that will have also 3 boarding bridges to rendering services up to four cruise ships simultaneously.
The Terminal is focused on efficiency and operational excellence in order to render comprehensive services in parallel to both transit and homeport cruise ships. The new terminal will accommodate shopping and restaurant areas that will contribute to a positive experience to passengers by means of customer oriented-services.

Lanzarote's dual cruise terminals; Naos and Mármoles

In Lanzarote the constructions will take place in the two specialized cruise piers located in Arrecife with the aim to operate several ships at the same time.

On the one hand, Cruise Terminal in Naos will consist of one-storey building of 1,106m2 to provide services for both transit and homeport operations by focusing on operational efficiency and improving security.

On the other, Cruise Terminal in Mármoles will be a modern modular facility of 556m2 to render services up to 3 cruise ships at the same time.

This installation will be also supported by a satellite cruise terminal of 426m2 in which several auxiliar services will be provided to both passengers and crew members.

Fuerteventura's innovative terminal

Finally, the terminal at Puerto del Rosario, walking distance to heart of the city center of Fuerteventura will consist of an innovative modular design of 924 m2. The terminal will comprise a restaurant with an open terrace to complete wide range of services to be rendered to the passengers.

All terminals have been designed to ensure accessibility to passengers with reduced mobility and with the capacity to adapt to new demands of the market that may arise in the future. Advanced security measures have been implemented and accessible spaces have been created to ensure that all passengers can enjoy an unforgettable experience.

Royal Caribbean's Allure of the Seas begins short cruises from Port Canaveral

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: Ports & Destinations Ports & Destinations; Published: 29 October 2023 29 October 2023

Port Canaveral has welcomed home Royal Caribbean International’s Allure of the Seas, the first of the game-changing Oasis-class ships to sail 3- and 4-night getaways to The Bahamas and the cruise line’s private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay.

"We’re proud to be Royal Caribbean’s partner in this industry first offering,” stated Port Canaveral CEO Capt. John Murray. “Our partners see a strong demand in our market for shorter itineraries on an Oasis Class ship. We are thrilled to welcome home the Allure of the Seas and look forward to delivering exceptional customer service experiences to their cruise guests.”

Over the past half-year, Port Canaveral has prepared for the arrival of Allure by expanding the parking capacity with approximately one thousand new spaces near Cruise Terminal 1 to cater to cruise guests arriving by car.

In maritime tradition Port Canaveral CEO, Capt. John Murray, extended a warm welcome to Allure’s Capt. Tobias Oster and Hotel Director Adriana Tibaudo upon their arrival to the port.

Allure, now a distinguished part of Port Canaveral's homeported fleet, stands alongside a lineup of Royal Caribbean ships – Wonder of the Seas as well as Mariner and Adventure of the Seas. Notably, Allure holds the title of the world's fifth-largest cruise ship, making Port Canaveral the proud home of two of the five largest cruise ships globally.

The ship boasts seven distinct neighborhoods, offering an array of amenities, including a thrilling nine-story zip line and two exhilarating FlowRider surf simulators. Additionally, vacationers can enjoy twin rock-climbing walls, mini-golf, ice skating, and a Sports Court.

Entertainment options on board are equally impressive, featuring full-scale productions spanning four stages – air, ice, water and theater. Guests can take in a performance of “Mamma Mia!” at the Royal Theater, witness daring high divers, aerialists, and slackliners at the AquaTheater, and even enjoy a spectacular performance by Olympic-level skaters at the Studio B ice-skating arena.

Allure also serves up a variety of dining and nightlife experiences, with over 30 restaurants, bars, and lounges like family-style Italian classics at Giovanni’s Table, sushi and hibachi at Izumi, American steakhouse Chops Grille, Starbucks and Vintages wine bar.

Families have ample opportunities to cool off, from the adults-only Solarium to the H2O Zone kids aqua park. The ship also boasts the Central Park neighborhood, featuring thousands of real plants, inviting walking paths, live music, and charming spots to dine and unwind.

Measuring an impressive 1,187 feet in length and 215 feet in width, Allure boasts a grand total of 18 decks and 2,748 staterooms. The ship registers 225,282 gross tons and comfortably accommodates approximately 5,496 guests in double occupancy.

Allure was constructed at the shipyard formerly known as STX Europe in Turku, Finland.

Photo: Captains Tobias Oster and John Murray. Credit: Port Canaveral