MEDIA

28 Oct 2026

Global Ports Holding Expands Caribbean Network with St. Vincent Cruise Port

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, located in Kingstown, the country's capital and main port.

The agreement follows the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) 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 26 October 2026 at Kingstown Cruise Ship Berth, in the presence of the Honourable Dr. Godwin Friday, Prime Minister of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, alongside senior government ministers and other distinguished officials.

Subject to the fulfilment of the conditions precedent under the concession agreement, GPH is expected to commence operations at St. Vincent Cruise Port in the first quarter of 2027.

Under the agreement, GPH will bring its extensive cruise port management expertise, operational capabilities and established relationships with leading cruise lines to support the long-term development of the port and strengthen St. Vincent and the Grenadines' position as a cruise destination in the Southern Caribbean.

St. Vincent Cruise Port is expected to welcome over 250,000 cruise passengers during the 2026/27 cruise season, providing a strong foundation for future growth under GPH's management.

GPH plans to implement a phased investment programme focused on modernising port infrastructure, expanding berthing capacity to accommodate larger cruise vessels and enhancing the overall passenger experience.

Beyond port infrastructure, GPH will work closely with the Government and local stakeholders to develop shore excursion opportunities, support local businesses and create wider economic benefits for communities across the destination.

Mehmet Kutman, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Global Ports Holding, said:

"This agreement marks an important new chapter in our 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."

Mike Maura, Jr., Regional Director, GPH Americas, said:

"Building on our experience across the Caribbean, including San Juan and Nassau, we look forward to bringing regional expertise and best practices to St. Vincent while respecting its unique 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."

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.