Global cruise port giant enters talks to manage SVG cruise terminal 

By Admin. Updated 2:45 p.m., Thursday, June 11, 2026, Atlantic Standard Time (GMT-4). 

Global Ports Holding (GPH), the world’s largest independent cruise port operator, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines that could see the international company take over the management and operation of the country’s cruise port.

The agreement, announced on Thursday, opens a period of exclusive negotiations between the Government and GPH aimed at finalising a concession arrangement under which the company would manage the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Cruise Port while ownership remains with the Government.

According to GPH, the proposed partnership is intended to support the long-term growth and development of the country’s cruise tourism sector through infrastructure improvements, operational upgrades and increased engagement with international cruise lines.

The company said St. Vincent and the Grenadines is strategically positioned within the Southern Caribbean cruise market, close to major cruise destinations including Barbados, Saint Lucia and Grenada. The cruise port currently receives more than 200,000 passengers annually.

Should a final agreement be reached, GPH plans to undertake a two-phase investment programme aimed at modernising port facilities, expanding berthing capacity, accommodating larger cruise vessels and improving the overall passenger experience.

The company said the proposed investments would be guided by environmental sustainability principles and are intended to strengthen the country’s competitiveness as a cruise destination.

GPH also indicated that it would work with the Government and local stakeholders to expand shore excursion offerings, creating additional opportunities for Vincentian businesses, tour operators and communities that benefit from cruise tourism.

Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Mehmet Kutman described St. Vincent and the Grenadines as a destination with significant potential and said the company looked forward to exploring a long-term partnership with the country.

“We look forward to working closely with the Government and local stakeholders to support national development, strengthen the destination’s cruise offering and help create lasting value for the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines,” Kutman said.

Regional Director for GPH Americas Mike Maura Jr. said the company believes the destination is well positioned for future growth within Southern Caribbean cruise itineraries.

He said investment in modernised infrastructure, efficient operations and environmentally responsible development could make the port more attractive to cruise lines and passengers.

The signing of the MOU does not guarantee that a concession agreement will be finalised. Any management arrangement remains subject to the successful completion of negotiations and the formal award of concession rights.

Founded as a global cruise port management company, GPH operates 35 cruise ports across 20 countries in the Caribbean, Mediterranean and Asia-Pacific regions and serves more than 22 million passengers each year.

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