The publicly traded port operator Global Ports Holding said
it has signed a long-term deal to manage the cruise piers in Havana, with the
expectation that they will be significantly expanded.
The company will operate the port, advise on the Cuban
government's redevelopment of the piers, and market the new terminals when
built.
Global Ports said the number of berths will increase to six
by 2024, significantly increasing the passenger capacity. The port currently
has two functional cruise berths and in 2017 welcomed 328,000 cruise
passengers, a growth rate of 156% compared to 2016, according to a company statement.
More than 500,000 cruise passengers are expected in 2018.
Every major cruise line has announced increased visits to
Havana in the past six months. They have said that the additional berth space
needed has come from more advanced management of the pier by Cuban authorities.
Global Ports said its agreement with Cuban company Aries for
the operation of the cruise port in Havana has a 15-year term that begins on June
21.
Global Ports said its management fee will be based on
passenger numbers, with growth-based incentives. It will work with Cuba on
design and technical specifications of the development, including proposed new
terminals.
When the terminals are built, Global Ports will be
responsible for marketing and commercializing them.
Headquartered in Istanbul with offices in Barcelona and
London, Global Ports to date has been concentrated in Europe. Chairman and
co-founder Mehmet Kutman said the Cuba agreement is the first step in the
company’s strategy for the Americas.