The Las Palmas Cruise Port has officially opened its new terminal, marking a significant development for Gran Canaria's tourism and maritime infrastructure. The Celebrity Apex was the first vessel to dock at the Santa Catalina Pier on October 2, 2025, initiating operations at what is now Europe's largest cruise facility.
This opening represents a new era for the Canary Islands as a major international cruise destination. It strengthens the region's position in the Mid-Atlantic, offering enhanced services for both ships starting voyages and those in transit.
Key Takeaways
- New Las Palmas Cruise Port terminal is now operational.
- Celebrity Apex made the inaugural call on October 2, 2025.
- The facility is Europe's largest cruise terminal.
- It features 14,000 square meters, three boarding bridges, and capacity for four vessels.
- The project is part of a €40 million investment and emphasizes sustainability.
New Terminal Boosts Gran Canaria's Cruise Standing
The operational launch of the new terminal is a key milestone for the Las Palmas Port Authority. It aims to solidify Gran Canaria's status as a leading global cruise hub. The facility is designed to handle a high volume of passengers and ships, supporting both homeport operations, where cruises begin and end, and transit calls.
To celebrate the inaugural call, a traditional plaque exchange ceremony took place. The captain of the Celebrity Apex participated in this event with representatives from the port authority, signifying the formal start of operations.
Beatriz Calzada, President of the Las Palmas Port Authority, stated: "Las Palmas Cruise Port represents a major step forward in our infrastructure and service offerings. With this terminal, we strengthen the Canary Islands’ position in the Mid-Atlantic and establish Las Palmas as a key hub for both homeport and transit cruise operations."
Focus on Sustainability and Modern Design
The design and construction of the new terminal incorporated significant environmental considerations. The port authority has committed to sustainable practices in its development. This reflects a broader trend in the maritime industry to reduce environmental impact.
Terminal Facts
- Size: 14,000 square meters (two floors)
- Boarding Bridges: 3
- Vessel Capacity: Up to 4 simultaneously
- Features: Retail areas, dining options, exterior esplanade, landscaped areas, pedestrian walkways, restored palm grove.
The facility uses recycled and eco-friendly materials. It also includes energy-efficient systems and solar power. Responsible waste management practices are in place. These features align with modern environmental standards for large-scale infrastructure projects.
Calzada added: "Furthermore, this facility has been designed with sustainability in mind, reflecting the port authority’s commitment to innovation and the responsible development of our activity."
Partnership and Investment Drive Growth
The new terminal is a joint venture. It is operated by Global Ports Holding (GPH) and its local partner, SEPCAN. This partnership brings together international expertise in cruise terminal management with local knowledge of the Canary Islands market.
Susana Gutierrez, General Manager of GPH Canary Islands Cruise Ports, expressed enthusiasm about the project. She highlighted its importance for the future of the Port of La Luz.
Gutierrez commented: "We are very pleased with the launch of the new cruise terminal. This project marks the beginning of a new era for the Port of La Luz."
The infrastructure aims to professionalize cruise services and support sustainable growth on Gran Canaria. This includes enhancing passenger experience and operational efficiency.
Broader Investment Plan
The new terminal is part of a larger €40 million investment plan. This plan aims to modernize cruise infrastructure across three Canary Islands: Gran Canaria, Fuerteventura, and Lanzarote. This significant investment underscores the region's commitment to boosting its cruise tourism sector.
The construction work was carried out by Satocan. Their efforts focused on environmental and innovative criteria. This ensured that the terminal met high standards for both functionality and ecological responsibility.
Economic Impact and Regional Development
The expansion of the Las Palmas Cruise Port is expected to have a notable economic impact. It will likely increase tourist arrivals and spending on Gran Canaria. This supports local businesses and creates employment opportunities in the tourism and related sectors.
The Port Authority of Las Palmas also played a role beyond direct terminal construction. They contributed to the renovation and improvement of the areas surrounding the new facility. This ensures that the entire port environment is welcoming and efficient for visitors.
The ability to accommodate up to four vessels at once significantly increases the port's capacity. This allows for greater flexibility in managing cruise traffic and attracting more cruise lines to the region. The retail and dining areas within the terminal provide additional amenities for passengers, enhancing their experience upon arrival and departure.
The restored palm grove and landscaped areas contribute to a pleasant aesthetic. They also provide green spaces within the port environment. This adds to the overall appeal of the terminal for passengers and locals alike.
The project aligns with Gran Canaria's strategy to diversify its tourism offerings. While known for its beaches and natural beauty, the island is also developing its appeal as a cruise destination. This new terminal is a core part of that strategy.
