MEDIA

21 Oct 2026

Global Ports Holding Showcases Major Investments and Next Phase of Development at San Juan Cruise Port During FCCA Conference

More than $200 million in infrastructure improvements, plans for a new cruise terminal, and continued government collaboration underscore long-term commitment to Puerto Rico's cruise industry.

Global Ports Holding (GPH), the world’s largest cruise port operator, highlighted significant progress in the modernization of San Juan Cruise Port and outlined its vision for the next phase of development during a special presentation and facilities tour held in conjunction with the Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA) Annual Conference & Trade Show in Puerto Rico.

The gathering brought together cruise line executives, industry leaders, government representatives, and regional GPH executives to showcase the transformation underway at one of the Caribbean's most important cruise destinations and homeports.

Since assuming operations of San Juan Cruise Port in February 2024 under a 30-year Public-Private Partnership (P3) Agreement with the Government of Puerto Rico and the Puerto Rico Ports Authority, GPH has worked alongside its government partners to advance a comprehensive infrastructure modernization program. The initial program, expected to exceed US$200 million, includes structural rehabilitation, berthing infrastructure improvements, terminal upgrades, and operational enhancements across the port's facilities, with anticipated completion in the fourth quarter of 2026.

“San Juan Cruise Port is a key part of our growth strategy across the Americas. Through ongoing investments and future development plans, we are strengthening its infrastructure, enhancing its capabilities and creating new opportunities for cruise lines. This reflects our broader commitment to developing competitive cruise destinations and supporting sustainable growth across the region,” said Mike Maura Jr., Regional Director, Americas, Global Ports Holding.

"San Juan Cruise Port is a strong example of what can be achieved through long-term public-private partnerships and a shared commitment to developing world-class cruise infrastructure," said Mike Maura Jr., Regional Director, Americas, Global Ports Holding. "Our focus extends beyond modernizing port facilities. We are collaborating with our partners to strengthen Puerto Rico's competitiveness as a cruise destination and homeport, improve operational efficiency, and create the foundation for sustainable growth that benefits the cruise industry and the wider community."

Looking ahead, GPH also highlighted two significant proposed developments that will help shape the future of cruise operations in San Juan.

The first is a new cruise terminal at Piers 11 and 12, representing more than US$200 million in additional construction investment, envisioned to be financed through private capital. The proposed development would expand San Juan's homeport infrastructure, introduce modern passenger facilities, and improve embarkation and disembarkation capabilities to accommodate the evolving needs of cruise lines and their guests.

“San Juan represents the scale of what can be achieved when long-term private investment is combined with a shared vision and strong public-sector collaboration. Together with our government partners, we are not simply modernizing existing infrastructure; we are shaping the future of cruise operations in Puerto Rico and laying the foundations for long-term economic value,” said Jan Fomferra, President, San Juan Cruise Port and CFO, Global Ports Holding.

A second major initiative involves the demolition and reconstruction of the historic Pier 1 in Old San Juan, with an estimated project cost of US$114 million. The project is expected to be funded primarily through federal CDBG-MIT and FEMA resources and developed in coordination with the relevant Puerto Rico government agencies.

Following the presentation, participants toured the Pan American Piers to observe infrastructure improvements completed and underway, including the recent arrival of a new Passenger Boarding Bridge. This addition will complement the first bridge installed in 2025, introducing enhanced passenger boarding infrastructure designed to improve safety, efficiency, and operational flexibility.

“The progress we are making at San Juan Cruise Port is becoming increasingly visible. From infrastructure rehabilitation to new passenger boarding bridges, these improvements are making a real difference in how we operate and serve cruise lines and their guests. Our priority is to ensure that every investment translates into a safer, more efficient and welcoming port experience,” said Clarivette Diaz, General Manager, San Juan Cruise Port.

Norberto Negrón, Executive Director of the Puerto Rico Ports Authority, and Josué Colón, Executive Director of the Puerto Rico Public-Private Partnerships Authority attended the event, reflecting the continued collaboration between GPH and its public-sector partners.

Through its ongoing investments, infrastructure development initiatives, and strategic partnerships, Global Ports Holding continues to demonstrate its commitment to advancing cruise port operations in the Americas, supporting the growth of the regional cruise industry, and creating long-term value for the destinations and communities it serves.