Mehmet Kutman, chairman and CEO of Global Ports Holding tells Alex Smith how the port operator is investing in its network to ensure future success Responsible for 26 cruise ports in 14 countries in four continents, the world’s largest independent cruise port operator Global Ports Holding (GPH) is focused not only on expansion, but also on continuous improvement. With the number and size of cruise ships growing rapidly, GPH is concentrating on investing in its infrastructure to ensure it can continue to accommodate the largest vessels in the world. “GPH’s significant investments into Antigua Cruise Port and Nassau Cruise Port is a great example to this,” says Mehmet Kutman, chairman and CEO of Global Ports Holding. “Despite the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, our investment to increase the capacity of these ports and transform the passenger experience has continued as planned during the pandemic. Since taking over these two ports, GPH has invested over $300 million in capital expenditures, demonstrating our commitment to our ports and destinations.” Among GPH’s upcoming projects is the expansion and improvement of the cruise piers at the Port of San Juan in Puerto Rico, after the operator signed an agreement with the Puerto Rico Port Authority which is another inflection point and milestone after Barcelona and Nassau and is an example of how collective effort and team spirit is crucial. The $425 million San Juan Cruise Port Project, with the goal of increasing cruise traffic and maximising benefits for the entire destination, includes the repair and refurbishment of the existing port facilities and the construction of up to two new cruise terminals. “San Juan is the gateway to cruising the Eastern and Southern Caribbean, which includes marquee destinations such as Aruba, Curaçao, Antigua, and St. Kitts, to name just a few,” says Kutman. “Not only that, but Puerto Rico itself also offers great diversity of attractions including pristine beaches, rainforests, nightlife, natural wonders, caves, bioluminescent bays and friendly people.” GPH is also making efforts to update its ports for more sustainable operations by investing in technology, collaboration, and its employees. “Sustainability is embedded into the GPH DNA to help us strengthen the link between corporate and societal value,” says Kutman. “We have created and aligned our strategy which includes efforts to transform GPH ports with new technology and sustainable materials, engaging in multi-stakeholder initiatives to advance sustainable development, and focusing on employee wellbeing, engagement and learning opportunities.” CFIP Staying ahead of the game PORTS & DESTINATIONS “ Sustainability is embedded into the GPH DNA” The $425 million San Juan Cruise Port Project will see the construction of up to two new cruise terminals 8 6
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