The picturesque Canary Islands, situated off the coast of North-West Africa, are poised for a significant infrastructure makeover with the commencement of a pioneering cruise terminal construction project. With an impressive investment surpassing 40 million Euros, Global Ports Canary Islands, a collaboration between Global Ports Holding Plc. and local partner Sepcan S.L., is set to revolutionize cruise tourism in the region. This venture aims to enhance the economic impact of cruising, creating a bright future for this beloved archipelago.
The Canary Islands: A Gem Among Cruise Destinations
The Canary Islands have earned their reputation as one of the most sought-after cruise destinations globally. Nestled between Morocco and Western Sahara, this Spanish region enjoys a unique blend of European accessibility and idyllic year-round weather, making it a prime winter escape for millions of Europeans and a cruising paradise. The archipelago’s natural beauty and vibrant culture have attracted cruise enthusiasts, holidaymakers, and explorers from around the world.
Global Ports Canary Islands: Pioneering Cruise Terminal Project
The ambitious initiative led by Global Ports Canary Islands kicks off on Monday, November 6, 2023, and is set to transform the cruise experience across the archipelago. The project focuses on constructing cruise terminals in three key locations: Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, and Fuerteventura.
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Las Palmas de Gran Canaria: The crown jewel of the project, the Las Palmas terminal, situated at the Santa Catalina Pier, is set to become one of Spain’s busiest cruise ports. This two-story, 14,000 m2 facility will feature three boarding bridges, capable of hosting up to four cruise ships simultaneously. Las Palmas is already the third busiest cruise destination in Spain, with plans to serve both port calls and homeport operations, as well as offering shopping and dining options.
Lanzarote: In Lanzarote, the project focuses on two cruise terminals, Naos and Mármoles, both strategically located in Arrecife. The Naos terminal, covering 1,106 m2, will cater to both transit and homeport operations, while the Mármoles terminal, a modular facility spanning 556 m2, has the capacity to accommodate up to three cruise ships. An additional 426 m2 satellite cruise terminal will offer auxiliary services to passengers and crew members, enhancing the overall experience.
Fuerteventura: Construction on Fuerteventura’s new cruise terminal at Puerto del Rosario will begin on November 6, offering easy access to the city center. This modern modular facility, covering 924 m2, includes amenities and restaurants to enrich the experience for visiting cruise passengers.
Sustainable Development and Environmental Considerations
A key focus of the project is sustainability. Global Ports Canary Islands has committed to using recycled and eco-friendly materials to minimize waste, preserve natural resources, and reduce environmental impacts. The project integrates cutting-edge technologies and innovative practices to achieve a minimal carbon footprint and maximize the use of renewable resources. The terminals will be eco-efficient, functional in design, and incorporate solar energy and recycled materials, with effective waste management. It is expected that these measures will have a positive impact on each city, promoting sustainable and responsible economic development.
Economic Impact and Accessibility
The Canary Islands already welcome over 1.5 million cruise passengers between January and September 2023, with major cruise lines including MSC Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, P&O Cruises, Costa, AIDA, and Mein Schiff featuring the archipelago in their itineraries. The construction of the new terminals will significantly expand the capacity to handle cruise ship traffic, with every 24 cruise guests supporting one full-time job and each guest spending an average of €660 in port cities during a typical seven-day cruise. Furthermore, all three terminals have been designed to meet accessibility needs for passengers with reduced mobility, ensuring a positive experience for all visitors.
The Canary Islands’ bold endeavor to construct state-of-the-art cruise terminals in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, and Fuerteventura signifies a promising future for cruise tourism in the region. With sustainability at the forefront and a focus on enhancing the visitor experience, these terminals are set to attract even more cruise enthusiasts, boosting economic activity and promoting responsible development across the archipelago. The Canary Islands’ allure as a premier cruise destination is poised to shine brighter than ever before.
