MEDIA

09 Aug 2023

Global Ports Holding Expands Presence in the Caribbean with Saint Lucia Cruise Port

Global Ports Holding ("GPH"), the world's largest independent cruise port operator, is pleased to announce that it has signed a 30-year concession agreement, with a potential 10-year extension option, with the Government of Saint Lucia for the cruise related operations in Saint Lucia. This agreement marks a further significant step in the strategic ambitions of GPH in the Caribbean, reinforcing its commitment to transforming the cruise experience in the region.

As part of the concession agreement, GPH will utilize its global expertise and operating model to manage the cruise port operations in Saint Lucia while investing in a material expansion and upgrade of the cruise port facilities. This investment will expand the existing berth in Point Seraphine, allowing the handling of the largest cruise ships in the global cruise fleet and increasing the capacity of the port. GPH will also invest in the transformation of the retail experience at the cruise port, including the redevelopment of the Vendor's Arcade and the design and development of a new Fishermen's Village at Bananes Bay, providing an exciting new space for local vendors. The company will also make a significant investment into upland development works at Soufriere Bay, including developing a new amphitheatre and F&B area.

In addition to improving the overall cruise passenger experience in St Lucia, GPH is committed to driving significant economic benefits for residents by improving the facilities in and around the port, such as the Fisherman's Village, driving increased passenger spending in the destination.

In the 12 months to 31 March 2023, St Lucia welcomed 590k passengers (compared to 709k in 2019). The completion of the extended pier and upgrading the facilities are expected to lead to a rise in passenger volumes to over 1m in the medium term.

Global Ports Holding Chairman/CEO, Mehmet Kutman said: "I am delighted that the Government of Saint Lucia has awarded GPH the cruise port concession for Saint Lucia. This concession represents another significant milestone for GPH as we continue successfully growing our global cruise port network. The award is a further endorsement of our operating capabilities and the benefits our stakeholder partnership approach can bring to cruise destinations, passengers and the local population. The GPH team very much look forward to working with all stakeholders to build further on the success of this wonderful destination."