Global Ports Holding, the world’s largest cruise port operator, officially takes over the operations of Tarragona Cruise Port from the Port Authority of Tarragona. GPH has signed a 12-year concession agreement to manage the services for cruise passengers in Tarragona, Spain on April 1st, following the announcement of being chosen as the preferred bidder in January, 2022.
Global Ports Holding and Port of Tarragona held a joint event on April 26th, during Seatrade Cruise Global at the GPH booth. Josep Maria Cruset, President Port of Tarragona and H. Emre Sayin, CEO Global Ports Holding, together launched the official project.
In October 2021, Port of Tarragona inaugurated its new cruise wharf, followed by the concession award to Global Ports Holding for the management of its cruise passenger services. GPH plans to invest €5.5m for a new 2200 sqm self-efficient and sustainable terminal as part as its concession. The new terminal which is designed to serve both transit and turnaround calls, will provide cruise passengers with an improved guest experience. The project features retail and F&B opportunities, new coach and car parking facilities which will significantly improve the ports transport infrastructure.
Josep Maria Cruset, President Port of Tarragona, commented: “The partnership with Global Ports consolidates the cruise project in the Port of Tarragona. GPH’s experience and professionalism will help relaunch the cruise activity in Tarragona and recover the pre-pandemic results in two years. We are happy that, from now on, Tarragona will be available to more visitors from all over the world."
H. Emre Sayin, CEO Global Ports Holding said: “We are delighted to be chosen as the operator of a port with such high potential. Tarragona is truly a beautiful destination with great connections. We hope to highlight its history and culture further, all the while building a new and environmentally friendly terminal that will complement the port and the destination.”
Tarragona Cruise Port serves as the main cruise port to the ancient city for both a transit and turnaround operations. With 4 berths and no length & draft limitation, the port can easily handle the largest cruise ships in the world. Through the strong collaboration between the City & the Port,
Tarragona will showcase its diverse touristic offers for cruise guests while creating opportunities to the local stakeholders. Its guests will truly discover a journey in time. Tarragona is located only 60 minutes away from Barcelona city centre and 45 minutes from Barcelona International Airport. and is a destination of history. Declared as a World Heritage site by UNESCO, the city rises on an ancient Roman Site. Tarragona was the capital of Hispania and one of the most important cities in the Roman Empire.
