New Port Being Developed In Jamaica To Accommodate RCI Megaships
Royal Caribbean has been working in partnership with the Port Authority of Jamaica to complete the new Falmouth Cruise pier by March 2010, as well as establish the associated infrastructure necessary to welcome cruise ship passengers. Falmouth is located within a half hour ride from resort areas of Ocho Rios and Montego Bay.
Falmouth was named for Falmouth in Cornwall, England and was created from seaside land owned by famed English Romantic poet Elizabeth Barrett Browning's grandfather, Edward Moulton Barrett, in 1790. Barrett sold portions of land off to planter friends, kept the waterfront and donated what remained for the building of a courthouse, church and public gardens. The community developed into a colonial center for Jamaica’s sugar and fine rums industries. The town’s Historic District with its 18th and 19th century architecture features many buildings still intact—from small wooden houses to brick Georgian mansions to plantation complexes. 
Plans underway to upgrade the piers at Labadee, St, Maarten  and Cozumel
Royal Caribbean is also collaborating with port authorities of the other ports of call that Oasis will visit. The cruise line and St. Maarten will upgrade the guest welcome facilities while Cozumel’s pier will be widened. In Haiti, a joint effort between RCI and the government will result in the construction of a new pier at Labadee, the cruise line’s private beach destination, as well as expand existing guest offerings with an alpine coaster and fast boat tours to complement Labadee’s Dragon’ Breath Flight Line. Approaches to the docks at St. Thomas, St. Maarten and Nassau also will be dredged.

Carnival To Introduce Baltimore’s First Year-Round Cruise Program In 2009
Carnival Cruise Lines will launch the first year-round cruise program from the Port of Baltimore with seven-day cruises aboard the 2,124-passenger Carnival Pride beginning in fall 2009. The new program kicks off September 13, 2009, and encompasses two different weeklong itineraries departing Sundays from the historic Maryland port. 
Baltimore’s first year-round cruise program will feature a variety of interesting ports on two distinctly different seven-day itineraries.

‘Carnival Freedom ‘To Operate Year-Round Cruises From Port Everglades
Carnival Cruise Lines’ 2,974-passenger Carnival Freedom, which was originally scheduled to operate six- and eight-day Caribbean cruises from Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on a seasonal basis, will now operate the program year-round, following the conclusion of its 2008 Mediterranean program in October. 

 

May, 2008

Stockholm Greets 2008 Cruise Season With New Terminal

The grand opening of the Stockholm Cruise Center Frihamnen this month marked the start of the Swedish capital's 2008 cruise season. The state-of-the-art cruise terminal will play a pivotal role as Stockholm prepares to receive a record-setting 265 ships in 2008, a five percent increase over 2007.
The fifth largest cruise destination in Northern Europe, according to Cruise Europe, the Scandinavian capital is expected to receive 30 turnaround calls and upwards of 300,000 passengers during the season, which runs through September 24. "The added capacity has not only helped serve the demand for Baltic cruising, but has also prompted new business and growth for Stockholm," said Josefin Haraldsson, marketing manager, cruises, Stockholm Visitor's Board. "Fourteen new ships will be calling this season and an increase can already be seen for the 2009 season."
The 3,000-square-meter (32,291 square feet) former cargo terminal underwent a complete interior and exterior renovation and now includes cafés, Internet access, waiting areas and baggage handling. The exterior has created a new city landmark with its brightly lit colors and original design.
Stockholm's popularity as a turnaround destination continues to grow with an 11 percent increase over 2007 projected this season. With the additional turnarounds, including the addition of Princess Cruises, more than 30,000 passengers will have additional time to explore Stockholm. Website:

Bermello Ajamil & Partners To Design Singapore's New Cruise Terminal
The Singapore Government has selected B&A Bermello Ajamil & Partners, Inc. (B&A), in a joint venture with RSP Architects Planners & Engineers (Pte) Ltd (RSP) of Singapore, to design the new International Cruise Terminal (ICT) at Marina South in Singapore. Responding to the dramatic increase in projected passenger volumes over the next five years and the need to accommodate the new mega-size ships, B&A and RSP’s proposed design of a modern and efficient terminal will address the long-term growth in cruise operations and also serve as the catalyst for expanding opportunities that will further enhance Singapore’s Marina South waterfront. At an estimated cost of US$180-220 million, the planned ICT development will include a new twin terminal building, a two berth finger pier capable of handling the largest of cruise ships currently in service and the next generation of cruise ships currently in production. In close proximity to the Central Business District and Marina Bay, the new cruise facility at Marina South will provide a world class cruise tourism platform for residents and visitors of Singapore.

Expansion OF Cruise Facility in BVI Announced
The British Virgin Islands Ports Authority is expanding the cruise pier to better accommodate the new class of megacruise ships in operation by the cruise industry. The project is slated to begin in July and should be completed by mid-December. Creque added that some preliminary work has already started with soil investigation of the surrounding sea bed.
In addition to the expansion of the pier, a tender dock will be built in the immediate vicinity of the cruise pier. This dock will be used as the reception area for tenders from cruise ships at anchor, and will also be used by ferries taking passengers on tours to other Islands.
The cruise ship pier was built in 1992 and extended in 1999. It is 1,015 feet in length, inclusive of the outer mooring dolphin, and can simultaneously accommodate two relatively large ships. After the expansion, the two berths will each be 1,142.75 feet.
The project is expected to be completed in December of this year.

 

Brooklyn Cruise Terminal Rededicates Historic Mural

A rededication ceremony for The Brooklyn Working Waterfront, an eight-panel mural that honors the people who made Brooklyn’s waterfront a vital part of the American economy, was rededicated at the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal this month. “The rededication of this historic mural is a fitting tribute to the many men and women who today are contributing to the rebirth of New York City’s waterfront as a dynamic economic engine of the City’s economy,” said Seth W. Pinsky, President, New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC). “With industrial maritime uses at Red Hook expanding into Sunset Park, and the thriving container terminal at Howland Hook in Staten Island, the New York Harbor is on its way to reclaiming its former status as a vibrant hub for international shipping. I am pleased that NYCEDC is a part of this revitalization and this tribute.”
The 24-foot by 9-foot mural was created in 1963 by Bernard Seaman (1913-1989), a noted editorial cartoonist and artist. It was originally displayed in the lobby of the Brooklyn Longshoremen’s Medical Center in Brooklyn. When the building was scheduled for demolition in 2008, efforts to preserve the mural were spearheaded by ILA Local 1814 President Louis Pernice and the members of the local union. The transfer and reinstallation at the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal was funded by New York Container Terminal President James Devine.
The mural depicts scenes of longshoremen hauling cargo-laden nets during the height of activity on the Brooklyn waterfront.  Each of its 3 x 8 foot panels contains hundreds of pieces of acrylic layered to create different hues and textures. The men are depicted hoisting sacks of coffee and crates while barrels of oil wait to be loaded on the Brooklyn docks. There is a large stack in the foreground representing the ubiquitous steam ships of the era. The intricate work also portrays the Statue of Liberty centrally framed by the Brooklyn Bridge.

 

April, 2008

Shanghai Port International Cruise Terminal To Officially Open Summer 2008.
A multibillion-Yuan terminal is nearing completion on the Huangpu River in the heart of Shanghai—a project that could play a leading role in the development of cruise economy in China as well as make Shanghai the top cruise ship hub in Asia.
Shanghai Port International Cruise Terminal (SIPG) is located on the North Bund area of Hongkou District which is the central districts of Shanghai and also acts as a “Gate on the Water” for the city. It has a water front of 880 meters and a land area of around 130,000 square meters.  Connected with the Bund in the west and faced with Oriental Pearl TV Tower in Lujiazui across the Huangpu River in the south, it offers a panoramic view on both sides of the river.
Both inbound and outbound passenger liners as well as foreign cruises stopping at Shanghai Port, currently berth at Shanghai Port International Cruise Terminal.
The International Cruise Terminal, which hosts the 2008 Seatrade All Asia Cruise Convention October 23-25, will officially open on August 5 this year.
MSC Cruises will have a dedicated office within the cruise terminal area.
In order to promote the cruising concept and provide the general public a feeling of the unique cruising lifestyle even before they get a chance of boarding a cruise ship, both SIPG and MSC Cruises have agreed agree to jointly set up a “Cruise Center” that will showcase the Italian cruising style.
MSC Cruises is also carefully studying the potential of deploying an MSC Cruises ship to Shanghai to commence an Asia service. When this service commences, MSC Cruises will use Shanghai Cruise terminal facilities on a regular basis. This will be the first time that MSC Cruises ships will visit the Asian market.
MSC Cruises and SIPG are going to have a joint venture travel agency
In order to stimulate and educate the domestic Chinese cruise market, Shanghai Port International Cruise Terminal (SIPG) and MSC Crociere S.A. (MSC) have agreed to set up a JV travel agency in the LOI, according to the agreement signed in May 2007 in Geneva, Switzerland. The JV travel agency will be invested by SIPG and MSC Cruises and will be named the MSC Cruises Travel Agency (Shanghai) Co. Ltd. The JV travel agency will be the General Sales Agency of MSC Cruises in mainland China. The short term goal of the JV travel agency is to make cruising become one of the most popular ways of leisure travel.

Grand Turk Cruise Center Offers A Variety Of Shopping
Grand Turk Cruise Center, one of the Caribbean’s newest cruise destinations, will welcome an increase in both the number of ship calls as well as the opening of additional retail stores in 2008. Officials at the Grand Turk Cruise Center expect more than 200 cruise ship calls accounting for 400,000 passengers in 2008, up from 180 calls and 380,000 passengers last year.
Located on 13 acres of pristine beachfront property on Grand Turk, in the Turks & Caicos Islands, the Grand Turk Cruise Center boasts more than 40 retail shops encompassing 40,000 square feet of retail space featuring many world-renowned brand names in watches, jewelry, and clothing. Website: www.Grandturkcc.com

Cruiseport Boston Expects More Travelers In 2008
The Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport) reports that the 2008 cruise season officially began April 12 with the arrival of the Amadea. This year’s season will run through November 7 with some 116 ships carrying an estimated 280,000 travelers passing through Cruiseport Boston. Fifteen cruise lines will offer an assortment of Canada/New England, Bermuda, Caribbean, and trans-Atlantic itineraries. This year’s season will bring some great new ships, welcome back an old one, and bid “bon voyage” to Cunard Line’s Queen Elizabeth 2. “This cruise season promises to be a busy one with a 20% increase over last year.," said Mike Leone, Massport’s Port Director. “This is good news for Boston’s local restaurants, shops, and attractions.”
Beginning in May, Cruiseport Boston will be the homeport for Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Dream, a 1,750-passenger ship that will cruise weekly to Bermuda. She will also embark on a series of seven-day Canada/New England cruises. She replaces Norwegian Majesty, a 1,500 passenger vessel which began calling the Port of Boston in 1994. Norwegian Dream,
In 2008, Cruiseport Boston also welcomes back Royal Caribbean’s Jewel of the Seas for an assortment of Canada/ New England and Caribbean cruises. Boston has been the homeport for Jewel of the Seas since her launch in 2004. She holds 2,501 passengers. Some of her amenities include a rock-climbing wall, indoor/outdoor country club with a golf simulator, and a beautiful indoor solarium.
New this season will be an inaugural visit by Holland America’s newest ship Eurodam. She will be the line’s largest ship carrying 2,104 passengers.
Cunard Line’s QE2 will make a final visit to Boston on her Autumn Colors cruise before she travels to Dubai where she will become a floating hotel. Website: http://www.massport.com/ports/cruis.html

Oslo Expects Good Cruise Season In 2008
After a year which saw a slight decrease in calls and passengers, Oslo is back on track, notes the Oslo Cruise Network, with more than 220,000 passengers expected to visit in 2008 on a Baltic or Norwegian cruise.
Both Royal Caribbean (RCI) and MSC Cruises will use Oslo as a home port for eight sailings in April and May. RCI will sail six mini-cruises to Amsterdam and back, while MSC will pick up Norwegian passengers in Oslo on two mini-cruises visiting Norway, Sweden, Denmark and Germany this month.
Four piers will be available for cruise ships this year: Sondre Akerhus, Vippetangen, Filipstad and Sorenga. The Revier pier is closed in 2008 due to tunnel work in the bay. However it will reopen in 2009 as the Opera Cruise Pier, located in Bjorvika near the iconic Opera House, built in white marble with huge glass windows.

New Stockholm Cruise Terminal To Open In May
Stockholm's new large cruise terminal, at Frihamen 638, is set to open in May, but a smaller terminal also will be joining the Ports of Stockholm facilities. The terminal at Stadsgården is set to accommodate cruise ships with up to 1,000 passengers and will be located by the new ABBA Museum, set to open in 2009.
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Dominican Republic Cruise Numbers Rise Significantly In 2007
DR Cruise numbers were up 18 percent in 2007 from 2006 and are expected to rise in 2008.. In Santo Domingo, the new Sans Souci Port is expected to formally open later this year.
Tourist stopovers totaled more than 3.9 million in 2007, up slightly from 2006. Tourists from North America accounted for 48 percent of all visitors, with 34 percent from the US and 14 percent from Canada; Europe came in at 39 percent with the remaining visitors from Latin America.

Vancouver BC Starts Its 2008 Cruise Season
The British Columbia port of Vancouver expects to welcome more than 250 ship visits and 850,000 revenue passengers at its two cruise terminals, Canada Place and Ballantyne. Passengers may also choose from a round trip or one way cruise. The Port of Vancouver is the leading homeport to Alaska and the only one gateway through Canada's Inside Passage.
The season kicks into high gear on May 9, when Norwegian Sun, Veendam, Golden Princess and Celebrity Infinity call with approximately 13,000 passengers embarking or disembarking.
In 2008 the Tahitian Princess will replace the Pacific Princess; the Veendam will replace the Zuiderdam and Millennium replaces Celebrity Summit. Regent Seven Seas Cruises will deploy Seven Seas Mariner and Silversea Cruises will bring Silver Shadow.Visit http://www.portvancouver.com/vanAlaCruise/
content/cruiseOverview/schedule.html for a list of ships making calls this season.

 

 

April 1, 2008

Port Canaveral And Disney Cruise Line Reach Agreement
Disney Cruise Line will extend its partnership at Port Canaveral for another 15 years, operating its two new 4,000-passenger vessels from its exclusive-use terminal in Canaveral.
After yearlong negotiations, the Canaveral Port Authority Board of Commissioners voted unanimously to approve the agreement, which includes pier and terminal improvements needed for the arrival of the first new Disney ship in 2011. The second ship is scheduled for launch in 2012. 
In addition, a parking garage will be built to accommodate the 40-percent capacity increase with the two new ships. “This agreement reflects Disney’s commitment to Central Florida and success at Port Canaveral,” said Tom McAlpin, President of Disney Cruise Line. “We are proud to call Port Canaveral our homeport.”
Disney currently homeports the Disney Magic, offering a seven-day itinerary to the Caribbean, and the Disney Wonder, offering 3- and 4-day voyages to the Bahamas.

Ports Of Argentina Experiences Unprecedented Growth
Fueled by a growing interest in South America as a cruising destination, three major Argentine ports -- Buenos Aires, Madryn and Ushuaia -- are experiencing a development boom. That growth, spurred by an increased focus by both North American and European cruise operators, has prompted an initiative committing hundreds of million of dollars to infrastructure development to accommodate larger cruise ships and increased passenger numbers.
Ideally suited as a summer alternative to the Caribbean, the Port of Buenos Aires, Port of Madryn and Port of Ushuaia have ramped up expansion of piers, facilities for embarkation and disembarkation of passengers and enhanced shore excursion offerings to accommodate the needs of cruise lines and their guests. "The growth is phenomenal, we've confirmed 91 cruise ship arrivals for 2008-2009 alone," said Jorge Falcon, Director of Port Capacity, National Port Administration, Port of Buenos Aires. "To date we've completed more than US $158 million in new piers, deepening of existing channels and other facilities."
The province of Chubut, which features the port of Madryn, has already invested more than US$30 million in new piers and associated navigation facilities and foresees allocating an additional US$190 million to be spent within the next eight years. This enhancement program includes seaport environmental improvements, continued pier enlargements and construction of a new terminal building at the Pier Luis Piedra Buena.
The Port of Ushuaia has recently carried out a million dollar three-part improvement project including the construction of OMI required devices and foresees a harbor modernization project in the near future. Investments also included training and the purchase of advance technology elements.
The completed and planned improvements at each port will enhance the existing offerings, which range from spectacular scenic cruising off Ushuaia, the southern most city in the world, to face-to-face penguin encounters near Madryn.

15 European Ports Form Atlantic Alliance To Promote Cruises
Fifteen ports on Europe’s West Coast have launched a campaign to promote a new cruise destination encompassing seven countries, seven leading cultures, and seven well-known capitals. The 15 ports, Hamburg and Bremerhaven (Germany); IJmuiden, Amsterdam and Rotterdam (The Netherlands); Antwerp (Belgium);
Cherbourg, St.Malo, Brest, Nantes, La Rochelle and Bordeaux
(France); Santander and Vigo (Spain); Lisbon (Portugal); founded the
Atlantic Alliance to market themselves as a unique and attractive cruise
destination offering many exciting possibilities of itineraries. “Europe’s West Coast is a treasure trove for travelers seeking exclusive experiences beyond what has become conventional luxury,” said Dirk  Moldenhauer, Managing Director Hamburg Cruise Center and Managing Director of the Atlantic Alliance at this month’s Seatrade 2008 convention in Miami.
Until now, Europe’s Atlantic seaboard has been regarded by the cruise industry as a transit and repositioning area between the Mediterranean and the Baltic. But the Atlantic Alliance members will offer cruise passengers many more and extraordinary experiences such as rich, cosmopolitan cultures, great shopping, sophisticated food and wine, and the grand capitals of Europe, all in one cruise.
The Atlantic Alliance expects more ports and tourism boards to join. In August 2008, the group will issue a brochure providing the cruise lines with all necessary information about theme cruises and touristic highlights.
For more information, please visit www.atlanticalliance.eu . 

Malaga Now Spain’s Second Most Important Cruise Port
Malaga cruise ports last year becoming the second most important port in Spain in terms of number of cruise ship visits. The first phase of a $295 million port expansion has just been completed. Plans call for two new docks which will have restaurants, shops, gardens and recreational areas.

Singapore’s New Cruise Terminal Slated For 2010 Opening
Singapore's new international cruise terminal located at Marina South, which opens in 2010, will double capacity and it will be able to accommodate the largest ships currently in service or in development, such as Royal Caribbean's new Genesis class of ships debuting in 2009.
The Marina South facility will be a ten-to-15-minute drive from the existing Singapore Cruise Centre at HarbourFront, which has two cruise ship berths.
Singapore's goal is to handle 1.6 million embarking and disembarking cruise passengers per year by 2015. Last year, the tourism board said Singapore Cruise Centre reported a cruise passenger volume of over 943,000, an increase of 10% over the 857,000 passengers achieved in 2006.

Shanghai’s New Cruise Terminal Nearing Completion
Shanghai, China’s new cruise terminal, situated in the city’s North Bund area, is nearing completion. The bubble-shaped glass facility is a first step in Shanghai’s bid to attract the top cruise lines, said Lu Haihu, chairman of Shanghai International Port Group. Costa Cruises, Star Cruises and Princess Cruises are among the regular visitors to the city and next month Royal Caribbean International’s Rhapsody of the Seas is scheduled for a port call.
Hong Kong and Singapore are also planning major new cruise facilities as interest in Asian cruises grows.

 

 

 

January, 2008

New York’s Pier 88 At Westside Terminal Now Renovated
New York’s Westside Terminal complex now boasts one fully renovated berth—Pier 88. The transformation from a grey decrepit terminal to a brightly lit one with an upgraded interior is remarkable. Pier 90’s renovation is expected to be completed by this summer.

Partial view of Pier 88’s interior’s new look
The pier opened partially to accommodate Norwegian Cruise Line’s winter operations which began in December with the arrival of its newest ship, Norwegian Gem. While the pier is being used mainly by Norwegian Cruise Line for its Norwegian Gem, and Norwegian Dawn; other lines will benefit as well. On January 13, as part of the three Cunard ships meeting for the first time in New York’s harbor, the Queen Victoria was docked at the refurbished pier.
Under the auspices of New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC), the $200 million renovation project will provide separate embark/debark areas, food service, modern customs processing facilities, ADA compliant gangway systems, designated taxi pick-up and drop-off areas, new elevators and escalators, attractive passenger waiting area and new PA systems for the piers.
NYCEDC also opened the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal in April 2006. It was the first major cruise pier project in NYC since the 1970s. For a month by month schedule of 2008 cruises out of the Manhattan Westside piers and Brooklyn*, visit http://www.nycruise.com/sched_2008.html .
*(Note: the ships listed in red type sail from the Brooklyn cruise terminal in Red Hook.

Hamburg Cruise Season 2008 Begins In April
Hamburg’s Cruise Season 2008 will see its first cruise vessel arriving in the Port of Hamburg mid April. The season will conclude in December with the famous Christmas cruises. The year 2008 is in the limelight of the cruise industry. In efforts to increase its importance as a cruise destination, a second berth is being built to accommodate cruise vessels with a maximum length of 300 meters and is expected to be completed in spring of 2009. The ongoing development of the cruise facilities that includes the alignment of the terminal infrastructures, the constructions of the surrounding area and the access road, parking spaces and public areas, will cost an estimated 12.5 million euros.
Three out of ten worldwide new ships are expected during 2008 at the Hamburg Cruise Center. Maiden calls include HAL’s Eurodam in July, Aida Cruises AIDAbella in September and Celebrity’s Celebrity Solstice in October. In addition, the AIDAaura will operate 11 cruises from/to Hamburg.
Between July 30 and August 3 2008, Hamburg as metropolis on the waterfront will be celebrating Hamburg Cruise Days as a new event in the port. Overall seven cruise ships will be calling at Germany’s largest port during this event. A call by the Queen Mary 2 on July 30 will mark the kick-off of the event. One highlight during the event will be a grand parade of ships to include Aida’s “Aura” and “Astor”, the Deutschland, Cap San Diego and two tall ships.
A detailed sailing list is available in the category CruisePort Inside under www.hamburgcruisecenter.de. Website:  www.hamburgcruisecenter.de
                       
Fourth Cruise Terminal Slated for Port of Southampton
Plans are underway to build a fourth cruise terminal at the Port of Southampton after Associated British Ports (ABP) signed a 20-year contract with Carnival UK. ABP will invest £19 million in the new terminal, which will be built at Ocean Dock opposite the site of the old Ocean Terminal. The agreement will also give Carnival brands Cunard, Ocean Village, P&O Cruises and Princess Cruises priority use of the port’s Queen Elizabeth II and Mayflower Terminals, further strengthening the group’s relationship with the port.
In 2008, Cunard’s Queen Victoria and P&O’s new Ventura will be passed at the port. The port anticipates nearly 1 million passengers using the port in 2008.
Today’s announcement comes at a historic time for Southampton’s cruise business. Cunard’s Queen Victoria has, this morning, sailed into the port for the first time, and next year will see the arrival of P&O’s Ventura, the largest cruise ship ever to be built for the UK market. Both of these vessels will then be based at the port. “The signing of this contract is spectacular news for the Port of Southampton. Over the last few years, our cruise business has gone from strength to strength, reflecting the consuming public’s ever-growing demand for luxury cruise holidays, said Doug Morrison, ABP Port Director, Southampton. “We are delighted to be building the new terminal, on the back of this long-term agreement, as it not only strengthens our close relationship with Carnival but also demonstrates our faith in the future of this trade. Website: http://www.abports.co.uk/

Voyager Of The Seas Arrives In Galveston For Its First Winter Season In Texas
Everything is bigger in Texas and the next biggest thing in the Lone Star State is Royal Caribbean International’s Voyager of the Seas. The largest cruise ship ever to be based in the Gulf Coast and to sail from the Port of Galveston, Voyager will sail seven-night itineraries visiting the Caribbean, South America and Mexico calling on Cozumel, Costa Maya and Yucatan, Mexico; Roatan, Honduras; Montego Bay, Jamaica; and George Town, Grand Cayman through April 2008.
“In 2006, we welcomed 617,000 cruise travelers, making Galveston the Gulf Coast’s most popular cruise port.  With the arrival of Voyager of the Seas, the port will undergo a $3.3 million upgrade to accommodate a 50 percent increase in Royal Caribbean guests,” said Steven M. Cernak, port director, Port of Galveston.  “Hosting the most innovative ship in the Gulf will have a significant economic impact, adding to the success of 2006 when we saw $1.1 billion in direct spending, resulting in 19,341 jobs created and $907 million generated in new income in the state of Texas as a result of the cruise industry.”*

San Diego To Get A New Cruise Terminal
The Board of Directors for the Port of San Diego approved an updated design of the
Broadway Pier Cruise Ship Terminal. The design, which was originally presented
at a November 9, 2007 Board meeting, included a unique sawtooth roofline, the use of glass panels on the structure and incorporated public art.
The upgraded design has pushed the project cost to $23.6 million. The Port originally intended to pay for the project with a $12 million loan received from Carnival Corporation. The Port has been discussing financing options with both the City of San Diego and the Centre City Development Corporation for extra funding to compensate for the $10.9 million excess cost for the new facility.
The Port’s cruise business has increased steadily over the years. An average of 200 cruise vessels arrive at the Port each year, bringing about $2 million in economic impact with each call. To keep pace with the growth, the Port believes it is imperative to improve its cruise facilities. A new cruise terminal is planned for the B Street Pier and the terminal on Broadway Pier is necessary for cruise operations to continue while that pier is under construction.
The Port hopes that the Broadway Pier cruise terminal building will be finished by May
2009.

 

December, 2007

The Port of Copenhagen Becoming A Popular Christmas Cruise Destination
In 2005, the first Christmas cruise visited Copenhagen. This December, the ships will once again find their way to Northern Europe’s leading cruise destination. Cruise lines have discovered Northern Europe as a Christmas destination and three cruise ships have scheduled their arrival. “Since the beginning of the year, we saw a rise in inquires about Christmas cruises. Early on, the British cruise lines P&O, Fred Olsen and Cunard expressed their interest in Christmas cruises to Northern Europe. And, when the ships Artemis, Black Watch and Queen Victoria announced their arrival in Copenhagen, the cabins were fully booked in just a few days,” says Anette Jensen, Cruise Marketing Director, Cruise Copenhagen Network.
The first Christmas cruise ship, Artemis, arrived at Langelinie on the December 10 followed by Black Watch tow days later and Queen Victoria on December 14.  “Since 2004, we have worked with a strategy that would get the cruise lines to discover the possibilities Copenhagen has to offer – both traditional and original that differentiates the destination from its competitors – even in December. And the Scandinavian Christmas markets rank high on the passengers’ wish lists.  Our wish is that December cruises can be part of expanding the season so Copenhagen can welcome cruise ships year round and be competitive in the winter and spring as well,” says Per Schmidt, Chairman of Cruise Copenhagen Network and General Manager, Copenhagen Malmö Port,
Previously, the cruise season began in early May and continued through the end of September. But, this year, the season continues through December.  Furthermore, the 2008 season begins in early April and the cruise lines already scheduled two Christmas cruises.
Interest in cruising Northern Europe has increased since 1992 when Cruise Copenhagen Network began its focused efforts on getting more cruise companies to choose Copenhagen. During the last five years, the number of cruise passengers has increased from 173,000 to 420,000. Website: www.cruisecopenhagen.com   

Study For  Enlargement of Boston’s Black Falcon Cruise Terminal Underway
Boston’s Black Falcon Cruise Terminal is being studied by the Massachusetts Port Authority for possible expansion. The terminal could double in size to accommodate the supersize cruise ships that will be debuting in the next couple of years. Reportedly, the $70 million project is being led by New York-based Cargo Ventures, with the new facility expected to be ready by the end of 2009. In 2007 Boston will have handled 101 cruise ships and 250,000 passengers and that number is expected to increase considerably in 2008.

New Berth For Large Cruise Ships Being Built In Warnemünde
New construction of the berth P8 in the Warnemünde Shipyard Basin is underway with the work being done by the consortium (ARGE) Züblin/Aarsleff. Total costs for the new berth is estimated at nearly $15 million. was awarded the contract for the construction.
ARGE began preparatory work on the site in Warnemünde at the end of August, and divers cleared a 400-meter-long stretch of the base of the old berth. The first phase of execution entails the construction of a sheet pile wall 320 meters long, set three meters in front of the old wall and anchored on land. This phase of construction includes the complete exchange of the water floor at the area of the stretch of sheet pile wall to a depth of 17 meters. Hard marl soil will be excavated and gravel will be filled in the overlapping bore holes.
Beginning in December, 17-meter-long sheet piles will be driven into the prepared bed. The gap between the old and new sheet pile wall will be filled in with gravel and sand and paved as a quay surface. At the beginning of next year, the water depth at the area around the berth will be dredged to around 10 meters, as necessary for navigation and maneuvering.
The second phase of execution lasting until the end of August 2008 entails the construction of an additional 145-meter length of the berth in the same manner. The configuration of the berth P8 will be modified so that following a 412-meter stretch of quay, a slight bend will be built to which an additional 53-meter quay length connects. Along with the waterside construction, the corresponding paving of the surfaces and adjustments of the berth will be carried out. “This new berth allows us to keep pace with the developments in the international cruise industry regarding ship size. Alone in next year’s cruise season, of the more than 100 cruise ships already registered, over 50 have a length of between 250 and 300 meters”, comments Ulrich Bauermeister, Managing Director of Hafen-Entwicklungsgesellschaft Rostock.

High Degree Of Satisfaction With Port Offerings In Rostock
Passengers and crew members spent around 5.8 million Euros in Rostock and the surrounding region during this year’s cruise season. This was among the results of a survey of 1,019 cruise passengers and 462 crew members commissioned by Hafen-Entwicklungsgesellschaft Rostock. The survey was carried out in Warnemünde by the University of Rostock under the guidance of Prof. Dr. Martin Benkenstein from May to  September 2007.
Of the 115,000 passengers recorded in 2007’s cruise season, 22,800 began and finished their cruise during the 16 changeovers carried out at the Warnemünde Cruise Center. A total of 76 port calls by cruise ships brought a total of 92,200 passengers to Warnemünde who further explored the region by means of guided or individual excursions. Overall, Warnemünde was visited by 25 different cruise ships from 21 different cruise shipping companies a total of 92 times this year. Of the approximately 47,000 crew members on board these ships, just over half of them came onto land during their layover in Warnemünde.
Of the 22,800 passengers who began and ended their cruise in Warnemünde, 494 were interviewed during the course of the survey. On a scale of 1 (very satisfied) to 5 (very dissatisfied), the passengers were asked to rate their overall satisfaction with Warnemünde as a cruise port, resulting in an average rating of 1.8. The passengers rated factors such as the terminal building, the development of the port area, the friendliness of the personnel, and the baggage check-in very highly. One factor of dissatisfaction among many passengers was the distance to a major airport. Of the 494 passengers interviewed, 31% mentioned the need for additional service offerings, of which food and beverage offerings at the Warnemünde Cruise Center were most widely requested.
29% of the change-over passengers interviewed reported an overnight stay in Rostock or the surrounding region either before or after their cruise; two-thirds of these before starting the cruise, and one-third upon returning to land.
Warnemünde welcomes guests from America and Britain
A total of 525 of the 92,200 passengers arriving at the 76 port calls by cruise ships in Warnemünde were interviewed during the course of the survey. Of those interviewed, 41 percent came from the USA, 37 percent from Great Britain and 12 percent from non-US America. The average age of the travelers was 59 years.
“The study of this year’s cruise season shows that cruise tourism generates significant revenues for the region, especially for retail shops. We are obviously pleased that the satisfaction rating of the cruise port Warnemünde was very high among passengers and crew members alike. Our cruise port has made a name for itself in recent years within the cruise industry. Warnemünde was visited by 25 different ships from 21 different cruise operators this year. This shows that the cruise port Warnemünde as well as the state of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern enjoy a high degree of awareness and popularity. Word has gotten around – internationally too – that our state is the most popular summer tourist destination in Germany. This is a significant argument for us as a port”, comments Ulrich Bauermeister, Managing Director of Hafen-Entwicklungsgesellschaft Rostock.

Newfoundland & Labrador Report Record Year For Cruises
The final numbers are in for the 2007 Newfoundland and Labrador cruise season. It was a record year with approximately 55,500 cruise passengers and crew visiting various ports. Several ships scheduled had to cancel due to poor weather.
The outlook for 2008 is even greater with a preliminary 57,500 scheduled passengers and crew to date and more activity expected to be added over the next few months. Highlights next year will include visits from Pearl Seas Cruises, a new cruise line offering high-end small ship cruising. In 2008 Pearl Seas 210 capacity passenger ship will visit St. John’s and Corner Brook as well as Port au Basques, Cape St. Mary’s and Francois. They have also planned a more extensive 14 day circumnavigation cruise in 2009. Corner Brook and the Bay of Islands region will see the return of Canadian Sailing Expeditions who is offering six cruises in the area. St. John’s is predicting its busiest cruise season to date. Returning in 2008 are Cruise North Expeditions, Adventure Canada, Polar Star, Quark Expeditions, and Wanderbird Cruises.
Following on the success of last year’s Exploration Cruise Forum, Cruise Newfoundland and Labrador has announced a second Cruise Forum to be held in Corner Brook from October 28-30, 2008. The goal of the planning committee is to attract even more expedition cruise line executives and to focus on showcasing the numerous product offerings Newfoundland and Labrador can deliver to the expedition cruise industry.

Strong Summer Traffic Performance For The UK Port of Dover
The Port of Dover experienced a strong summer traffic performance boosting throughput in the first nine months of 2007 as ferry travel regains popularity. More than 11.3 million passengers passed through the port in the period January-September, nearly four per cent more compared with 2006.
The growth was due to increasing numbers of cars and coaches passing through Europe’s busiest ferry port. Over 2.2 million cars was seven percent more than 2006 whilst coach journeys rose 500 to 84,600.
The number of lorries increased by one per cent to 1.7 million but the busy pre-Christmas period was showing early signs of picking up with over 200,000 lorry journeys in September. Website:  http://www.doverport.co.uk  

 

October, 2007

Bremerhaven's international breakthrough

With all Germany’s major cruise ports on a high following record seasons this year (see today’s Kiel story) Columbus Cruise Center Bremerhaven (CCCB) is also predicting growth in 2008. ‘We have 101 turnarounds next year – an increase of more than 40 resulting in over 130,000 passengers - a rise of at least 70% compared to 2007,’ explains Veit Hürdler, gm at CCCB.

Fourteen stops by MSC Cruises have won the port a breakthrough into the international market, he says. In addition, CCCB remains the home port for Germany’s Phoenix Reisen, Transocean Tours and Hansa Kreuzfahrten.

In 2008,16 ships will use CCCB for transit calls including those of Costa, Saga and Fred Olsen.

 

September, 2007

Work Begins On Hamburg’s New Cruise Terminal

Rendering of new cruise terminal slated to open in 2011

For Cruise Season 2007 the Hamburg Cruise Center will have had 89 ship calls totaling 140,000 passengers. An analysis shows that the figures will grow rapidly within the next years. For 2010 the Hamburg Cruise Center is expecting 140 calls and 300,000 cruise passengers. To handle the increasing numbers, a third berth at the cruise center is planned for 2009 and a new state-of-the-art cruise terminal is being built for a 2011 opening. More information on the Cruise Center at http://www.hamburgcruisecenter.de.

About Hamburg
Hamburg is built on the water’s edge. The port, waterways and canals and the Alster Lake in the city center lend the city a unique atmosphere. In the period from 1850 to 1939 the port of Hamburg was the gateway to a better life in a far-off country for five million people from all over Europe. Inspired by dreams and hopes, the emigrants boarded the ships that would take them across the ocean to America, where they hoped to build new and better lives for themselves.
The new BallinStadt Emigration World and Museum takes visitors to Hamburg on a highly moving trip back to the era of emigration. Located on the historical place of the former ‘emigrant's city’, built by the shipping company Hamburg-Amerika Linie, visitors can experience a truly unique ensemble, offering a new and innovative angle on transatlantic migration history. For all visitors planning to research their ancestry, the BallinStadt Family Research Center offers a truly unique source: the Hamburg Passenger Lists, covering the period 1850 to 1934. The largest entity of its kind in the world, the lists documents the names of some five million persons who departed Hamburg onboard emigrant vessels. www.ballinstadt.de
Originally founded in about 811, Hamburg is one of the great Hanseatic cities in Germany. The river Elbe, where its port is located, has been vital in shaping the city's development throughout history. Today Hamburg’s port is the second-largest container terminal in Europe and its Hafencity (harbor city) is Europe's largest urban construction project. The Überseequartier, HafenCity’s new downtown district, will soon become a vibrant, round-the-clock core with a mix of apartments, offices, shops, restaurants and entertainment spaces designed by renowned international architects.
Two additional cultural milestones are being laid here: the International Maritime Museum, which will be Hamburg’s second largest museum and the impressive Elbe Philarmonic Hall. The exceptional concert hall designed by renowned Swiss architects Herzog & de Meuron will be located at the historically important Sandtor harbor, which was once Hamburg’s first industrial dock. Website: www.elbphilharmonie.de.  Visitors to Hamburg interested in the HafenCity can visit the information center situated in a former industrial boiler house at the Sandtorkai or go to www.hafencity.com .

Hamburg’s harbor
Close to the harbor, located in the district of St. Pauli, the Reeperbahn and the adjacent Große Freiheit streets became the mecca of rock music in the 1960s. It was here in clubs like the Top Ten or ‘tarclub where the Beatles played in their early days and launched their international career. The Reeperbahn is still one of Europe’s most famed nightlife areas. This buzzing entertainment district full of clubs, bars and theaters will definitely not disappoint visitors looking for some fun. And for all Beatles fans the Reeperbahn will offer another attraction soon: A monument dedicated to the famous pop band is to be erected near clubs where the band once played. The steel structure will represent John Lennon, George Harrison, Ringo Starr, Paul McCartney, and early Beatle Stuart Sutcliffe, who died in Hamburg in 1962.
Exciting nights can also be spent in many other parts of Hamburg. Everywhere, from the city center to the Nobistor, from Eimsbuettel to Eppendorf, locals and visitors alike enjoy the vibrant club and bar scene in elegant to extravagant surroundings.
Explore Hamburg’s harbor with Landungsbrücken, the historical Speicherstadt and the new Hafencity or the district St. Pauli with the famous Reeperbahn with a virtual guide. Hamburg is the first German city to offer guided city tours via GPS navigating visitors through the city. As one of the world’s leading ports, media center and city of culture, Hamburg offers a unique and unrivalled wealth of experience. More information at www.hamburg-tourism.de  

Liverpool’s New Cruise Terminal Opens
The Queen Elizabeth 2, on her 40th birthday cruise, opened Liverpool's new cruise liner terminal on September 21. The formal event, in the presence of HRH the Duke of Kent, was also attended by UK government ministers and Carol Marlow, President of Cunard Line. The new terminal will allow the new larger cruise ships, to berth on the Mersey on a regular basis. The terminal, a replacement of Princes Dock, was built at a cost of £19 million. During the opening festivities, it was announced that the main bridge linking the terminal to the land will be named Cunard Way to commemorate the historic links with the company.

Panama Canal Expansion Breaks Ground
In early September, residents from every province of Panama and from across the globe to witness history: the beginning of the historic expansion of the Panama Canal. The crowd, totaling an estimated 30,000, included world leaders in business and government,  joined employees of the Panamanian government and the Panama Canal Authority (ACP) in the groundbreaking to celebrate the beginning of the first-ever expansion of the nearly 100-year-old waterway.
Expansion will build a new lane of traffic along the Panama Canal through the construction of a new set of locks, which will double capacity and allow more traffic and longer, wider ships. The first project of the expansion is the dry excavation project on Paraiso Hill that begins the construction of the new Pacific Locks access channel. The new Pacific Locks access channel will ultimately connect the Gaillard Cut to the new Pacific Locks.
Carter."
In a national referendum October 22, 2006, Panamanians voted to expand the Canal, a momentous step that will ultimately secure their future and that of world trade. Expansion will double Canal capacity to more than 600 million Panama Canal tons, tighten the global supply chain and help get goods to market faster. After scores of analyses, studies and planning, expansion begins today. 
The Panama Canal services more than 144 different transportation routes from every corner of the globe, connecting major trading arteries and providing safe, time-saving and secure passage for all vessels. The expanded Canal will serve as a critical link to world commerce.
The Panama Canal Authority (ACP) is the autonomous agency of the Government of Panama in charge of managing, operating and maintaining the Panama Canal. The operation of the ACP is based on its organic law and the regulations approved by its Board of Directors. For more information, please refer to the ACP's Web site: http://www.pancanal.com.

 

August, 2007

Seattle Port Backs Strict Standards for Ocean-Going Vessels
The Seattle Port Commission passed a resolution in August that endorses the US government's proposal for more stringent international rules for ocean-going vessels.
"We are taking action locally to make sure our seaport operations are the cleanest possible, while supporting more stringent national and international regulatory standards" said Commission President John Creighton. He noted conversions to cleaner fuels, engines and operating practices by the Port and its main customers, environmental restoration of polluted sites, and other initiatives. But he said some environmental improvements have to happen on an international basis, and that's why the commission endorsed U.S. proposals to the International Maritime Organization. "Changes of this sort will improve environmental conditions at ports all over the world," Creighton said, "and will make sure we all compete on a level playing field."
The Port joins a number of other industry partners in this effort, including the Pacific Merchant Shipping Association, the World Shipping Council and the Puget Sound Clean Air Agency. The Port is currently engaged with the Ports of Tacoma and Vancouver, B.C. to develop a common set of standards for air-emissions reductions in all three Northwest ports.
The US recommendation calls for:
-- Strict new emission limits for particulate matter and oxides of sulfur, beginning in 2011 and 2012.
-- Limits for oxides of nitrogen to achieve a 15 to 25 percent reduction beginning in 2011, and further limits in certain areas to achieve 80 percent reductions beginning in 2016. These would apply to new engines.
-- Limits for oxides of nitrogen on engines built before Jan. 1, 2000 that would achieve a 20 percent reduction. These standards would phase in beginning in 2010 and 2012.

Port of Hamburg Slated For Increase In Cruise Calls
This year, the Hamburg Cruise Center expects to welcome nearly 90 cruise calls and 140,000 passengers. The port is predicting that in 2010, there will be a total of 140 calls and 300,000 passengers.
To facilitate the rise in ships calling at the port, the Hamburg Cruise Center plans to build a third pier for 2009 and to open a new cruise terminal in 2011.

Costa Maya Suffers Extensive Damage from Hurricane Dean
Puerto Costa Maya took a direct hit in August from Dean, a Category 5 hurricane. Current estimates by authorities say the port will be closed for at least six months, and maybe longer. A spokesperson for the port says that half of the ship pier was wiped out.
An assessment of facilities is under way and more information will be provided soon.
Carnival Corp. and Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. both use the port at Majahual, known as Puerto Costa Maya. Majahual suffered extensive damage when Dean swept over the Yucatan as a top-scale Category 5 hurricane demolishing houses, crumpling steel girders and washing away parts of concrete docks at the port.
Costa Maya has become a popular cruise destination since it began operating in 2001 to provide tourist access to historic Mayan sites.

 

July, 2007

Carnival Cruise Lines, Port of New Orleans Agree To Contract Extension
Carnival Cruise Lines and the Port of New Orleans announced a new two-year contract today retroactive to October 2006, with the option to renew the deal for an additional two-year period, which could keep the world’s largest cruise line sailing regularly from the Crescent City through 2010. “This shows Carnival’s commitment to the rebuilding of New Orleans and their confidence in the return of the City’s tourism industry,” said Gary LaGrange, president and CEO of the Port of New Orleans. “Carnival is a trusted partner with the Port in our combined efforts to continue to revive New Orleans’ tourism industry.”
Under the terms of the contract, the 2,056-passenger Carnival Fantasy, which replaced the Carnival Sensation in October of 2006, will make a minimum of 70 calls per year to the Port of New Orleans’ new $37 million Erato Street Cruise Terminal and Parking Garage. The ship sails four- and five-day cruises to the Western Caribbean year-round, with port calls in Cozumel and Costa Maya.
Carnival also plans to hold its quarterly meeting of national sales managers on September 24 and 25 in New Orleans to highlight the City’s rebounding tourism industry to its leading sales personnel.
An economic impact study found the cruise industry contributes $226 million annually to the regional economy and supports more than 2,800 jobs in Louisiana.

 

Palacruceros Terminal In Barcelona A Successful Venture For Costa Cruises
Just two months since opening in April, Costa’s new Palacruceros cruise terminal in Barcelona has welcomed 100,000 guests as of June 22. Costa finances and operates the terminal, which is slated to welcome 400,000 guests by the end of 2007. The milestone was officially reached on June 22.
Of the first 100,000 guest movements, Costa’s ships carried a total of 62,000, in large part due to weekly calls by the flagship Costa Concordia (total guest capacity: 3,780) and the Costa Fortuna (total guest capacity: 3,470), which operate cruises from the port during the summer The other 40,000 guests were accounted for by ships belonging to other Carnival Corporation & plc cruise lines.  “After two months of activity and having operated various types of ships inside the Carnival Corporation & plc cruise fleets, we can proudly say that Palacruceros Barcelona is not only a wonderful facility, but a truly functional building where all of the cruise lines’ operational expectations can be met,” said Sandra Yunta, General Manager of the Palacruceros. “We easily handle ships carrying over 3,000 guests on a regular basis with an excellent level of satisfaction both from the guests and the staff working at the terminal.”
Barcelona is one of Europe’s major cruise ports. From January through May 2007 the Catalan port welcomed nearly 400,000 cruisers, up 37 percent from the corresponding figure for last year. In May alone, there were some 217,000 cruise guests, an increase of 30% compared to May 2006.   
Palacruceros was inaugurated on April 24 and represents an investment of 12 million euros on behalf of Costa. It is located in an area of approximately 5,500 square meters on the Adosado pier/Terminal D. The Port of Barcelona, which has given Costa a 25-year concession on the site, has a total of seven terminals exclusively for cruise traffic use.
The new terminal can accommodate cruise ships of any tonnage, length and capacity, including the largest ships currently in service (140,000-plus gross tonnage).  The facility features four levels with a total area of approximately 10,000 m2, over half of which is covered.  The pier measures in at 300 meters long and 20 meters wide.  Thanks to the novel architecture, which is wonderfully light and airy, and to the extremely functional use of the interior, Palacruceros guarantees cruisers high quality services.  The terminal was designed by Luigi Vicini and Andrea Piazza from Studio Vicini, a Genoa-based firm of architects, and with the support of the Barcelona engineering firm Sener for the detailed design.  The actual construction work was carried out by the Spanish building contractor Sacyr.
Costa is the first European company to implement a policy of direct cruise terminal management. In addition to the Palacruceros project, Costa also manages cruise terminals in Savona, Italy, and La Romana, Dominican Republic and has agreements signed with the port authorities in Naples and Civitavecchia.
More information on Barcelona’s port is at http://www.apb.es/en/PORT/Cruises/Terminals/Terminal_D_Moll_Adossat.

 

June, 2007

Manhattan Cruise Terminals

New York City Cruise Terminals Recognized As Nation’s Best
New York City Economic Development Corporation announced this month that New York City’s two cruise terminals were honored with three awards by two travel publications and one of the nation’s premier cruise lines.
The Brooklyn Cruise Terminal was selected as Best New U.S. Homeport by Porthole Cruise Magazine and Best Turnaround Port by Princess Cruise Lines, while the Brooklyn and Manhattan Cruise Terminals were together chosen by the editors at TravelAge West as Best US Homeport. The awards follow the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal’s first season of operation and ongoing investments in the Manhattan Cruise Terminal, both of which paved the way for more than one million passengers to come through the City's cruise facilities for the first time ever in 2006.
The Brooklyn Cruise Terminal opened in April 2006 and is located in the Red Hook section of Brooklyn directly across from Governors Island, with views of Lower Manhattan and the Statue of Liberty. The $56 million terminal serves as Carnival Corporation’s berth of choice in the New York region for its Princess and Cunard lines and is uniquely situated within 12 miles from LaGuardia Airport, 16 miles from Newark International Airport and 20 miles from JFK International Airport. Brooklyn Cruise Terminal saw 41 ship calls and 186,000 passengers in 2006 and about 52 ship calls and 225,000 passengers are expected in 2007.
Renovations are underway at the Manhattan Cruise Terminal so it too can accommodate today’s larger ships and provide an enhanced passenger experience. Prior to the completion of the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal, the city had limited capacity to handle today’s larger post-Panamax ships. Once renovations in Manhattan are complete, the City will be able to handle four post-Panamax ships at one time – three in Manhattan and one in Brooklyn. Renovations are underway in phases, with the first phase expected to be completed by Spring 2008.
The cruise industry supports more than 3,300 direct and indirect jobs in New York City, and generates total economic activity of about $600 million per year. That is expected to grow to $1.2 billion per year by 2014. In 2007, more than 1.1 million cruise passengers are expected to travel through New York City.
New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC) is the City’s primary vehicle for promoting economic growth in each of the five boroughs.

Carnival Officially Kicks Off San Diego’s First Year-Round Cruise Program
Carnival Cruise Lines and the Port of San Diego commemorated the launch of the port’s first year-round cruise program.  Carnival’s Elation recently began operating San Diego’s first and only year-round cruise program encompassing four-day cruises departing Thursdays to Cabo San Lucas and five-day cruises to Cabo San Lucas and Ensenada departing on Mondays and Saturdays, on a rotating schedule.   Commented Sylvia Rios, chair of the board of port commissioners for the Port of San Diego, “The partnership between the Port of San Diego and Carnival Cruise Lines benefits the entire region of San Diego.  Having a year-round homeported vessel here offers cruisers more travel opportunities while providing the region with added economic benefits.”   

Regent Seven Seas Christens Newest Cruise Destination, Campbell River, BC
Regent Seven Seas Cruises inaugurated Canada's new Campbell River cruise ship terminal on June 5, 2007 as part of its 2007 Alaska cruise season. Overlooking Discovery Passage on Vancouver Island in British Columbia, this new cruise destination is an initiative of the Campbell River Indian Band, also known as the Wei Wai Kum, and is the first aboriginal cruise ship terminal in the world. The 700-guest all-suite, all-balcony Seven Seas Mariner will be the first and only ship in 2007 to call in Campbell River - the "Salmon Capital of the World" - which offers an intimate opportunity to experience British Columbia's unspoiled natural beauty and authentic Aboriginal culture.
The Wei Wai Kum Cruise Ship Terminal is an initiative of the Campbell River Indian Band and has been designed to reflect the rich architectural traditions of Canadian West Coast First Nations. In November 2005, Western Economic Diversification Canada (WD) invested $3.2M in the construction of a cruise ship dock facility in Campbell River, BC. WD is now investing in the construction of the Campbell River Cruise Ship marketplace and staging area, which will be used to introduce visitors to Kwakuitl culture and traditions, provide retail space for aboriginal businesses and entrepreneurs catering to cruise ship passengers, and provide opportunities for visitors to purchase locally-made products including food, arts, crafts, and other retail goods. The cruise ship terminal project was the result of an unprecedented collaborative effort between all levels of government to diversify the economies of BC's coastal communities that have been severely damaged from the demise of the fishery and forestry industries, by assisting them to attract and expand B.C.'s cruise ship industry.

Gloucester, Massachusetts Cruise Terminal Opens

At the heart of Cape Ann, just 30 miles north of Boston) Gloucester remains both the oldest fishing community in the US and home to the oldest art colony in North America. Now it has its own cruise terminal. Three cruise lines are scheduled to call in 2007.  Cruiseport Gloucester offers state-of-the-art facilities infused with old New England Charm. The site will also serve as a venue for weddings and conferences. Website: http://www.cruiseportgloucester.com/

Le Havre, France Welcomes Opens Its New Cruise Center
A new cruise welcome center recently opened in the port city of  Le Havre on France’s western coast in Normandy. Located at Pointe de Floride, facing the port entrance, the building was originally used as a maritime station by French line Compagnie des Chargeurs Réunis, which ceased operations in 1972.
At a cost of some €3 million, the new facility, painted in a vivid coral red, includes Wi-fi points, car rental, and a shuttle-bus service to the town. The port authority intends to also use the facility for turnaround calls in the near future.
Le Havre was until 1970 the main French port for transatlantic sailings, before Atlantic crossings gave way to the power of the jet plane. In the 1990s, cruise ships began to call and the port once again became viable.
In 2007, 50 visits are scheduled including first calls by Royal Caribbean’s Navigator of the Seas, Aida Cruises’ AIDAdiva and Holland America’s Veendam with some 87,000 passengers expected. Princess, Royal Caribbean, Costa and Cunard cruise lines are among regular visitors.

 

May, 2007

Pacific Northwest Ports Join Forces to Reduce Maritime Air Emissions
The ports of Seattle, Tacoma and Vancouver, Canada have proposed performance goals to reduce particulate matter by 70 percent from ships at berth and 30 percent from cargo handling equipment, according to the Pacific Northwest Ports Clean Air Strategy announcement this month. The strategy proposes performance goals aimed at reducing diesel emissions and greenhouse gases from port-related sources.
The three ports plan to accomplish the emissions reduction goals for ships and cargo handling equipment by 2010. The strategy also will address emissions from port-related truck, train and harbor craft activity and includes long-term goals for additional emissions reductions.  “The three ports have agreed to work together to cut maritime air emissions because the Puget Sound/Georgia Basin air shed is where we all live and breathe,” said Tay Yoshitani, CEO of the Port of Seattle. “Working collaboratively is the best way to do the job.”
“Because ports are in or near major cities, protecting air quality is a top public health priority,” added Elin Miller, EPA Northwest Regional Administrator. “Thanks to the commitment and hard work of our partners, Pacific Northwest ports are poised to become a ‘safe harbor’ of cleaner air, allowing all Puget Sound and Georgia Basin residents to breathe a little easier.”
The inventory – the most extensive study of its type ever completed in the United States – was the work of a broad range of partners in the public and private sectors. It identified the nature and sources of maritime-related air emissions from the Canada-United States border to south Puget Sound. The data in the inventory was collected in 2005, establishing the baseline against which future reductions in emissions will be measured.
As the emissions reduction plan is further developed, the three ports will identify specific performance goals and emissions reduction targets for port-related trucking, rail and harbor craft (ferries, tug boats, etc.) activities. Goals already have been proposed for ocean-going vessels and cargo-handling equipment. Performance goals set clear targets but do not prescribe how to reach those targets.
The plan will be submitted in the fall to the Port of Seattle and Port of Tacoma Commissions and to the Vancouver Port Authority Board of Directors for final approval in December.

US Public Ports Welcome Much Needed Security Funds
The American Association of Port Authorities (AAPA), which represents public ports throughout the Western Hemisphere, welcomed the announcement by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) this month that it will award $202,269,793 in federal grants to help 183 public and private entities improve security in and around port facilities. Congress appropriated $210 million for the Port Facility Grant program in fiscal year 2007, although $1.4 million was moved to the Ferry Security Grant program and three percent was allowed for administrative purposes.
For the Fiscal 2007 grant program, DHS’s Press Package only released information by port area, and included a comparison of Port Security Grant funds allocated from FY’02-FY’07. For this “Overview: FY’2007 Infrastructure Protection Program Final Awards,” see http://www.dhs.gov/xnews/releases/pr_1178811654577.shtm . A full list of recipients is available on AAPA’s web page at http://www.aapa-ports.org .
As in previous years, the funds will be distributed based on a prioritization of risk, although this year the program separated ports into four risk tiers and pre-assigned funds for Tier I port areas, which received 60 percent of the funds. Unlike the last two rounds, all port areas were eligible to apply, a priority of AAPA’s that was included in last year’s SAFE Port Act. The pre-allocation of funds for Tier I ports resulted in a limit on the amount of funds and projects applied for.
The security grants will not only assist marine facilities in paying for things like landside surveillance, access controls, interoperable communications and systems to prevent and detect improvised explosive device attacks, but will also provide much needed funds to pay for training as well as technology and equipment to test and install Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) card readers for facilities.
The American Association of Port Authorities was founded in 1912 and today represents 160 of the leading public port authorities in the United States, Canada, Latin America and the Caribbean. In addition, the Association represents 300 sustaining and associate members, firms and individuals with an interest in the seaports of the Western Hemisphere. AAPA port members are public entities mandated by law to serve public purposes. Port authorities facilitate waterborne commerce and contribute to local, regional and national economic growth.
American Association of Port Authorities is located at
1010 Duke Street, Alexandria, VA 22314-3589. Email: info@aapa-ports.org

Port Canaveral To Develop New Portwide Radio Communications System
Port Canaveral will develop a new port-wide radio communications system, as well as construct the first phase of a new Emergency Operations Center on the Port’s north side with its $2.8 million grant awarded in the latest round of Port Security Grants from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). It is the largest grant DHS has awarded to Port Canaveral and almost double the previous high amount received in 2002. “Few things are as important as the ability to communicate across and between our several layers of internal and external security,” says Stan Payne, CEO of Port Canaveral. “Our new system, combined with changes we’ve already made, will increase our effectiveness both in everyday operations and in times of crisis.”
Nearly $1.8 million of this year’s grant will help Port Canaveral fund the state-of-the-art radio communications network. The remaining $1 million will provide initial financial support for a new Emergency Operations Center on the Port’s north side.
Since the first round of grants in 2002, Port Canaveral has received a total of $6.5 million, including this latest amount.  The Department of Homeland Security funding for seaports this year totaled $202 million. It was divided among 183 public and private ports, including Canaveral. 

 

Stockholm Expects Record Cruise Season In 2007
In a sign of Stockholm's increasing popularity as a cruise destination, a record number of cruise lines and inaugural port calls are scheduled for the Ports of Stockholm in 2007. This summer the Swedish capital also welcomes for the first time Adriatic Cruises' Dalmacija, AIDA Cruises' AIDA Aura and Royal Caribbean Cruise Line's Navigator of the Seas.
The Stockholm Cruise Network anticipates hosting an estimated 290,000 passengers from 253 cruise ship calls between May 13 and September 30, of which 27 are turnaround calls. Overall, 2007 represents the fifth consecutive year of passenger growth at Stockholm, and more than 100 percent increase in the number of passengers served in 2002, which totaled 135,000. "With a seafaring tradition dating back more than 750 years, it's no surprise that Stockholm has developed a solid cruise industry today," said Christel Wiman, chief executive officer for the Ports of Stockholm. (To accommodate the increase cruise activity, the Ports of Stockholm have begun planning a 975,000-square-foot cruise terminal that is schedule to open in mid-2008.) "As the cruise Mecca of the Baltic, Stockholm is attractive because it's geographically compact, and the main attractions, cafès and shops are easily accessible by walking or public transportation. Most Swedes speak English and are friendly and hospitable to international visitors."
Cruise passengers visiting July 27-30 will have the opportunity to see and visit the world's largest sailing vessels that will be participating in the annual Tall Ship Races. Stockholm is to host the yachts for four days during a long weekend packed with festivities. The competition draws international visitors together to celebrate the Baltic region's maritime heritage and culture every year.
Cruise ships calling at the Swedish capital this summer include Adriatic Cruises' Dalmacija; AIDA Cruises' AIDA Aura; Celebrity Cruises' Century and Constellation; Costa Cruises' Atlantica, Classica and Magica; Crystal Cruises' Crystal Symphony; Hansa Kreuzfahrten's Dalmacija; Holland America Line's Prinsendam, Rotterdam and Veendam; MSC Cruises' Opera; Norwegian Cruise Line's Norwegian Dream; P and O Cruises' Aurora; Princess Cruises' Star Princess; Oceania Cruises' Regatta; Regent Seven Seas Cruises' Seven Seas Voyager; Residensea's World; Royal Caribbean Cruise Line's Navigator of the Seas; Seabourn Cruise Line's Seabourn Pride, and Silverseas Cruises' Silver Shadow and Silver Wind.
With 27 turnaround calls this season, more cruise passengers will have time to explore Stockholm before or after their cruise. Whether their activity of choice is a lunchtime ferry through the archipelago of 24,000 islands, a stroll through Gamla Stan, or Old Town, a visit to one of Stockholm's many museums or shopping for fine crystal or Scandinavian design products, there is plenty to do and see. Website: www.stockholmcruise.com
The Stockholm Cruise Network was created to enhance awareness of Stockholm as a cruise port and tourist destination among U.S. travel agents, consumers and cruise lines. Members include the Stockholm Visitors Board, Ports of Stockholm and an extensive local network that includes Scandinavian Airlines System, Stockholm Arlanda International Airport and numerous port agents, ground operators, local transportation companies, hotels and shops.

Other port developments recently announced:
-- A new ship terminal for the Port of Lisbon that can accommodate as many as five cruise ships. It is expected to be completed in 2008.
-- A new cruise terminal is being developed for the Canadian port city of Saguenay on the St. Lawrence River for completion in 2008.
-- The Port of Copenhagen will invest an estimated $40 million in a new dock to allow for cruise-ship turnarounds. The facility is scheduled to be completed in 2009.

 

 

2007 Atlantic Canada Cruise Season

April, 2007

Norfolk, Virginia’s $36 Million Cruise Facility Opens

 Rendering of new cruise facility

Norfolk’s crescent-shaped marina, initially used as a fort to protect the growing maritime industry during the mid-1700s, is now the site of the city’s newest attraction.  The Half Moone Cruise and Celebration Center, a $36 million, 80,000-square-foot cruise facility opened April 7 and welcome its first passenger ship April 28. The center will offer East Coast travelers the convenience and accessibility one would expect from a state-of-the-art cruise ship terminal.  With sailings from Carnival Cruise Lines and Royal Caribbean International, the Half Moone, built by the City of Norfolk, will aid vacationers, particularly in the mid-Atlantic region, in traveling to exotic locations such as the Bahamas, Bermuda, the Caribbean and Canada, without having to fly or drive to an inconvenient ship terminal location. 
While catering to those within a reasonable driving distance, Norfolk’s Half Moone will also provide an estimated 60 percent of passengers, who come from as far away as Florida and Texas, with an embarking location for their cruise destination. Others are expected to come via plane, train or auto from cities in nearby mid-Atlantic states, such as Richmond, Virginia, located 90 miles from Norfolk; Washington D.C., which is less than 200 miles away; or Baltimore, Maryland. and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, both located about 250 miles away. As a result of this growth, Norfolk has equipped the Half Moone with passenger-friendly amenities and designs to make travelers feel at ease and stress-free, including state-of-the-art embarkation (check-in) stations and a separate VIP check-in area.
The Half Moone will also serve as a premier venue for special events offering more than 23,000 square feet of interior event space, including a 13,500-square-foot Half Moone Vista, which will display facts about the original fort and a 1,100-square-foot Bermuda Room equipped with the latest audio/visual capabilities and displaying artifacts and objects that tell the story of the historic connection between Virginia and Bermuda. Outside, the Half Moone will feature a 3,400-square-foot Promenade Deck overlooking the Elizabeth River and a 9,600-square-foot Lido Deck with panoramic views of downtown Norfolk.
The Half Moone is also expected to increase the drive-to cruise appeal of residents in the Midwest, where this kind of accessibility and convenience has not been available to cruise-seeking vacationers before.  With an easy-access port from which to disembark, Norfolk’s Half Moone Cruise and Celebration Center is designed to eliminate the stress of ‘in-between’ travel, which includes traveling long distances in order to access an available harbor.
The following is the 2007 schedule of sailings from Norfolk’s new terminal:
April 28 – Royal Caribbean International: 7 nights in Bermuda
May 5, 12, 19 and 26 – Royal Caribbean International: 7 nights in Bermuda
June 2 – Royal Caribbean International: 8 nights in Bermuda
June 9 – Carnival Cruise Lines: 6 days in the Bahamas
June 10 – Carnival Cruise Lines: 2-day ‘Cruise-to-Nowhere’
June 16 – Royal Caribbean International: 6 nights in Bermuda
June 30 – Royal Caribbean International: 7 nights in Bermuda
July 7 and 14 – Royal Caribbean International: 7 nights in Bermuda
July 21 – Royal Caribbean International: 5 nights in Bermuda
October 7 – Carnival Cruise Lines: 6 days in the Bahamas
October 13 – Carnival Cruise Lines: 2-day ‘Cruise-to-Nowhere’
October 22 – Fed Olson Cruise Line
October 25 – Seabourn Cruise Line
October 28 – Princess Cruise Lines
Norfolk: From the Sea to Shining Scene of Culture & Leisure ~
Welcoming visitors for the past 400 years, the city of Norfolk enjoys a storied past attracting travelers seeking an exciting vacation blending history and heritage with contemporary activities and attractions.  Home to the largest Naval base in the world, Norfolk pays homage to its affinity and affection for its waterfront location by showcasing an easily walkable downtown district that offers eclectic dining options, burgeoning arts scene, high-end shopping, and year-round special events attracting thousands of travelers. For more information about Norfolk, visit the city on the Web at www.norfolkcvb.com , or call 757-664-6620 or toll free at 800-368-3097.

Costa Inaugurates New Cruise Terminal In Port Of Barcelona
Costa officially opened its new “Palacruceros” cruise terminal in April with an inaugural ceremony in Barcelona. The new Palacruceros terminal in Barcleona occupies a nearly 6,000 square-foot stretch of the Muelle Adosado quay. The Port of Barcelona granted a 25-year concession over the area to Costa, which is now equipped to accommodate cruise ships of all tonnage, length and capacity, including the largest currently in service (over 140,000 gross tonnage). The Italian company has invested approximately 12 million Euros in the new terminal for preferential use by Costa and other companies in the Carnival Corporation group.
The inauguration of the Palacruceros Terminal means Costa is the first company in Europe to implement a policy for undertaking direct management of cruise terminals. This is also evident in its investment and direct management of terminals in Savona and La Romana (Dominican Republic), and the agreements it has reached with the Port Authorities of Naples and Civitavecchia.
The new terminal was built on four levels, covering a total area of approximately 107,000 square feet. With its architecture, characterized by light and glazed surfaces, and the excellent, functional layout of its interior spaces, passengers are guaranteed maximum comfort and top-quality services during their visits. Passenger safety and protection for the environment are just two of the factors that were given priority during the development of the project. Among the facilities the terminal provides for the convenience of guests are a Children's Club, Internet Café, a shopping area, a VIP lounge and a cafeteria and terrace with panoramic views. The terminal is designed to make the time passengers guests embarking and disembarking as convenient and comfortable as possible.
The new cruise terminal will also house Costa’s office in Barcelona, which features a staff of 20 employees.
Barcelona has forecasted a total of 1.6 million cruisers in 2007 (with more than 20 percent coming from Costa). Moreover, Costa is the leading European cruise company in Spain. In 2006, Costa’s Spanish guests amounted to around 20 percent of all Spanish cruisers. The company has two commercial offices in Spain – one in Barcelona and the other in Madrid – both engaged in the promotion, marketing and sales of Costa cruises throughout the country.

Stockholm To Build Scandinavia's Most Modern Cruise Terminal
Plans to build a state-of-the-art cruise terminal for Stockholm, Sweden have been approved by the Ports of Stockholm board of directors who announced an expected completion for the beginning of the 2008 cruise season. The terminal, located at Frihamnen, is the Stockholm's first purpose-built cruise facility with 3,000 square meters (975,000 square feet) in area.
Magazine 9 on the Frihamnen Pier is to undergo a complete interior and exterior renovation in a modern Swedish design style. The terminal will include a café, Internet access, shops, a departures hall, customs and luggage handling facilities.
Every year hundreds of international cruise liners call at Stockholm during the summer season. The number of calls is growing steadily, and more than 300,000 cruise ship passengers are expected in the run-up to the 2007 season. "This represents an extremely important tourist segment for Stockholm's ever-growing tourism industry," observed Martin Rosborg, managing director of Stockholm Visitors Board. "A good first impression ensures satisfied ambassadors for Stockholm as a destination."
The initial steps in construction already are under way to ensure completion in time for the 2008 cruise season, which extends from May to October. The port is considering alternative potential uses for the terminal during the winter months.
The Ports of Stockholm jointly make up the largest seaport complex in the Baltic Sea, with ports at Kapellskär, Stockholm and Nynäshamn. A new container and roll-on/roll-off port is being planned for Nynäshamn at Norvikudden.
The combined ports have approximately 250 employees. Turnover in 2006 amounted to MSEK 639 (US$96 million). Operations encompass services to shipping as well as the letting of quay berths, land and premises. More information is available at www.stockholmshamnar.se .

2007 Cruise Season sets sail at Cruiseport Boston
Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport) officially opened the 2007 cruise season Sunday, April 15th with the arrival of the Saga Ruby for an overnight port-of-call. This year’s season runs through December 17th, and so far anticipates 103 ship calls with roughly 250,000 travelers passing through Cruiseport Boston with 15 cruise lines offering an assortment of New England/Canada, Bermuda, Caribbean, and trans-Atlantic itineraries.
New this year to the Port of Boston will be the inaugural visit by Norwegian Cruise Line’s newest Jewel-Class ship the Gem. Carrying 2400 passengers and weighing 93,000 gross tons, she is one of nine brand new cruise ships entering the North American market. Additional new Boston ports-of-call include NCL’s Norwegian’s Spirit, Royal Caribbean's Grandeur of the Seas and Explorer of the Seas, and Classic International Cruises’ Athena. “This cruise season promises to be a busy one with a 20 percent increase over last year in leisure travelers through Cruiseport Boston,” said Mike Leone, Massport’s Port Director.
Last autumn, Massport issued a Request for Expressions of Interest (RFEI) to developers and cruise lines for construction of a new cruise terminal in South Boston.  A modern two terminal/berth facility would complement and enhance the emerging Seaport District, and accommodate the consistent growth of Boston’s cruise industry since the first cruise ship called port in the 1980’s. Several cruise lines have expressed interest in calling Boston year-round. Website: http://www.massport.com

Puerto Costa Maya expands innovative shore excursion program
Costa Maya, the fastest growing port in Mexico, continues to expand its unique excursion program offerings with the addition of the Dolphin Dream Experience and various cultural tours in partnership with some of the region's leading tourist attractions.
The Dolphin Dream Experience is part of a joint venture with the Rivera Maya's world renowned eco-park Xcaret, and is featured in a facility right next to Costa Maya in the calm waters of the Caribbean Sea. The tour, led by bilingual naturalists, allows visitors the rare opportunity to swim and learn about dolphins in their natural habitat.
Expert trainers provide a complete explanation about dolphin anatomy, psychology, nature and their unique ways of communicating under water. The dolphins also perform incr