Global Ports Holding to operate Havana cruise port

Global Ports Holding has signed a 15-year management agreement to operate the cruise port in Havana, Cuba on behalf of Cuban company Aries.

Effective from 21 June 2018, the agreement will see Global Ports Holding managing all of the cruise port operations over the next 15 years. In addition, the group will continue to work with its Cuban partners on the design and technical specification of the cruise port investment programme, which includes a proposal for new cruise terminals.

“I am very happy that we have signed an agreement for Havana Cruise Port, the first step in the group’s growth strategy for the Americas,” said Mehmet Kutman, chairman and co-founder of Global Ports Holding. “This spectacular city and country is becoming an increasingly popular tourist destination, with visitors attracted by world famous architecture, a vibrant music scene and the famous local hospitality. We very much look forward to working with our Cuban partners to deliver a fantastic cruise port experience.”

The agreement is part of Cuba’s investment into improving Havana’s port area and tourism infrastructure. The port currently has two berths and welcomed over 328,000 cruise passengers in 2017, a 156% rise from 2016. More than 500,000 cruise passengers are forecast for 2018. The number of berths will increase to six by 2024, significantly increasing the port’s passenger capacity.

“We are delighted to have been awarded the management contract for the Havana cruise port and look forward to playing our role in developing the cruise port and the wider visitor experience in Havana, as well as Cuba more broadly,” said Emre Sayin, CEO of Global Ports Holding. “The Global Ports Holding team looks forward to working with our local partners and local staff to drive continued growth in cruise passenger volumes at Havana Port and deliver both world-class cruise port facilities and a great cruise experience for all passengers visiting Havana.”