Global Ports Holding signs 30-year cruise port deal in St. Vincent
Key Points(5)
- Global Ports Holding (GPH), the world's largest cruise port operator, has signed a 30-year concession agreement with the Government of St.
- Vincent and the Grenadines for the development and operation of St.
- Vincent Cruise Port in Kingstown, the country's capital and main port.
- The agreement follows a memorandum of understanding signed between GPH and the Government in June 2026 and marks an important milestone in the development of the country's cruise tourism sector.
- The signing ceremony took place on Oct.
Global Ports Holding (GPH), the world's largest cruise port operator, has signed a 30-year concession agreement with the Government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines for the development and operation of St. Vincent Cruise Port in Kingstown, the country's capital and main port.
The agreement follows a memorandum of understanding signed between GPH and the Government in June 2026 and marks an important milestone in the development of the country's cruise tourism sector.
The signing ceremony took place on Oct. 26, 2026, at Kingstown Cruise Ship Berth in the presence of Prime Minister Dr. Godwin Friday, senior government ministers and other officials.
Subject to the fulfilment of conditions under the concession agreement, GPH is expected to begin operations at St. Vincent Cruise Port in the first quarter of 2027.
Under the agreement, GPH will bring its cruise port management expertise, operational capabilities and established relationships with leading cruise lines to support the port's long-term development and strengthen St. Vincent and the Grenadines' position as a cruise destination in the Southern Caribbean.
St. Vincent Cruise Port is expected to welcome more than 250,000 cruise passengers during the 2026-27 cruise season, providing a foundation for future growth under GPH's management.
The company plans to implement a phased investment programme focused on modernizing port infrastructure, expanding berthing capacity to accommodate larger cruise ships and enhancing the overall passenger experience.
Beyond infrastructure improvements, GPH will work with the Government and local stakeholders to develop shore excursions, support local businesses and generate wider economic benefits for communities across the destination.
Mehmet Kutman, chairman and CEO of Global Ports Holding, said the agreement marked a new chapter in the company's partnership with the Government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
"We value the trust placed in GPH and are committed to combining our global expertise and investment capabilities with the destination's unique character and potential. Our ambition is to develop a modern, sustainable cruise port that creates lasting economic value, supports local businesses and communities, and ensures that the benefits of cruise tourism extend well beyond the port," he said.
Mike Maura Jr., regional director of GPH Americas, said the company looked forward to drawing on its experience across the Caribbean, including in San Juan and Nassau, while respecting St. Vincent's distinct identity.
"Our focus will be on enhancing the guest experience, strengthening the destination's appeal to cruise lines and working closely with local stakeholders to create meaningful opportunities for businesses and communities," he said.
The addition of St. Vincent Cruise Port will further strengthen GPH's presence in the Caribbean and reflects the company's continued commitment to working with governments and local communities to develop sustainable cruise destinations and create long-term value.
