Global Ports Holding Plc wins bid to operate new Casablanca cruise terminal

Global Ports Holding Plc (“GPH”), recognized as the world’s largest independent cruise port operator, has recently achieved preferred bidder status through a public tender process for the operation of the new Casablanca cruise terminal. This development comes as part of a 15-year concession agreement with Agence Nationale des Ports (“ANP”), signifying a pivotal moment for both the local Moroccan economy and the global cruise industry. The Consortium, primarily owned by GPH (51%), alongside local shareholder Steya (40%) and Ocean Infrastructures Management (9%), is now poised to finalize the terms with ANP, marking a significant milestone in Casablanca’s tourism and port management landscape.

Casablanca, Morocco’s vibrant metropolis, is on the brink of becoming an even more attractive destination for cruise passengers, thanks to its rich blend of traditional Moroccan culture and modern allure. The city serves as a gateway not just to itself but also to other Moroccan jewels like Rabat and Marrakech, with the latter soon to be more accessible via a bullet train project anticipated to be operational before the 2030 FIFA World Cup.

The recent EUR 60 million investment in the cruise port infrastructure, led by ANP, underscores the commitment to enhancing Casablanca’s status as a key stopover for cruises linking the Canary Islands, the West Mediterranean, and transatlantic routes between Europe and the Caribbean. With upgrades including a new cruise pier, terminal, and maritime station meeting international standards, the port now boasts the capacity to accommodate vessels up to 350m in length and is prepared to welcome up to 400k passengers annually. For 2024, the Casablanca Cruise Port anticipates welcoming approximately 150k transit passengers, a number expected to increase to around 180k by 2025.

The Casablanca Cruise Terminal, strategically positioned near the My Youssef pier, can service 350,000 passengers per year, handling ships up to 350 meters in length, 45 meters in width, and 12 meters in depth. This enhancement has been further bolstered by the installation of two Seaport Passenger Boarding Bridges by ADELTE, ensuring operations align with international requirements and standards.

The awarding of the 15-year concession agreement to Global Ports Holding Plc and its consortium partners for the Casablanca new cruise terminal is a significant development for Morocco’s tourism industry and the global cruise sector. It not only promises to elevate Casablanca’s appeal as a prime cruise destination but also showcases Morocco’s readiness to invest in state-of-the-art infrastructure to accommodate the growing demand for cruise travel. As the industry continues to recover and expand, such strategic investments are essential for enhancing passenger experiences and supporting sustainable tourism growth in iconic destinations like Casablanca.