Posted on September 29, 2025
Following the successful launch of its new terminals in Alicante, Fuerteventura, and Lanzarote earlier this year, Global Ports Holding (GPH), the world’s largest cruise port operator, is moving ahead with a series of major construction projects across its global network. Developments currently underway span The Bahamas, Antigua & Barbuda, St. Lucia, Spain, and Puerto Rico, underscoring GPH’s commitment to delivering world-class cruise facilities with increased capacity that enhance passenger experiences while supporting local communities across its international cruise port network. The total volume of these current construction initiatives represents an investment of around $250 million by GPH.
In Nassau, The Bahamas works are progressing on a new waterfront features: the West Marina Pool and adjacent Superyacht Marina. This CAPEX program currently underway combines refined design details and premium leisure features. Construction of the pool is expected to be completed by mid-October 2025, with the opening to follow thereafter. Once open, it will serve as a vibrant gathering place for families and visitors, while the marina, scheduled for completion by the end of the year, will provide berthing space for mega yachts.
In Antigua, construction is advancing on an upland development project, reshaping the port district with a modern homeporting terminal building, reinforcing Antigua’s role as a turnaround destination in the Caribbean, plus expanded retail and dining areas, and upgraded passenger amenities. The CAPEX program also includes a pool area, signature restaurant, and improved parking facilities. The terminal building is expected to open late 2025 to be available for the upcoming high season, with the wider upland development program scheduled to open 2026.
In Saint Lucia, GPH’s CAPEX program is combining critical marine infrastructure with upland improvements. The works include upgrading Berth 1 at Pointe Seraphine to accommodate the largest cruise ships of the region, building a new tender jetty, and enhancing visitor areas such as Fishermen’s Village, the Vendors Arcade, and Soufriere Bay. Phase 1 is due in late 2025, with completion of the entire project in 2027.
In Las Palmas, GPH is developing the largest cruise terminal in Europe. The Las Palmas terminal can accommodate up to five ships and 12,000 passengers at once. The state-of-the art cruise facility will strengthen the Canary Islands’ position as a leading cruise destination. Sustainability is central to the design, with renewable energy integration, smart building technologies, and eco-efficient operations that reduce the carbon footprint. The facility is scheduled for completion in September 2025, with surrounding landscaping works to follow in early 2026.
Meanwhile, in San Juan, rehabilitation works are underway at the Pan American Wharf, Pier 3 and Pier 4. This much needed repair and upgrade program will modernize and strengthen marine and upland facilities – all while port operations continue. Pier 3 repairs and upgrades have been completed recently, early improvements to the Pan American Wharf are expected by October 2025, with the wider rehabilitation efforts, including Pier 4, planned to be completed in 2026.
“These construction projects with a combined investment volume of over $250 million reflect our commitment to building world-class cruise destinations that support both passengers and local communities,” said Mehmet Kutman, Chairman & CEO of Global Ports Holding. “Each project is carefully designed to enhance the guest experience, create economic opportunities, and deliver sustainable infrastructure that will serve these ports for decades to come. GPH is shaping the future of cruise destinations worldwide and the current program of investments reflects both our belief in the strength of the industry and our commitment to building modern, sustainable ports that create lasting value for guests, cruise lines, and local communities alike.”
With simultaneous developments advancing across the Caribbean and Europe, GPH continues to reinforce its position as the world’s leading cruise port operator while setting new standards for global cruise port infrastructure.
