A major milestone for the European cruise industry has been reached with the opening of the Las Palmas Cruise Terminal in Gran Canaria, which is being described as the largest cruise terminal in Europe.
The new facility at Las Palmas Cruise Port was developed by Global Ports Holding in partnership with local company Sepcan as part of a broader investment strategy to strengthen cruise infrastructure in the Canary Islands.
Large-scale facility designed for modern cruise operations
The terminal building spans 14,000 square meters and is spread across two levels, designed to accommodate growing passenger volumes and larger cruise vessels.
Key features of the terminal include:
- Three passenger boarding bridges
- Operational capacity for up to four cruise ships simultaneously
- Modern passenger processing and terminal facilities
The development aims to enhance the passenger experience while improving operational efficiency for cruise lines operating in the region.
Strengthening Gran Canaria as a cruise hub
According to Francesc Grau, Regional Director for West Mediterranean operations at Global Ports Holding, the terminal represents a significant step forward for the region’s maritime tourism industry.
He noted that the project strengthens the role of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria as a key Atlantic cruise hub, supporting the continued growth of cruise itineraries across Europe, Africa and the Americas.
Part of a €40 million Canary Islands modernization plan
The new terminal forms part of a €40 million investment plan aimed at modernizing cruise port infrastructure across several islands in the Canary Islands.
In addition to Gran Canaria, the investment program includes upgrades to cruise terminals in:
- Fuerteventura
- Lanzarote
The initiative aims to strengthen the islands’ competitiveness as a major cruise tourism destination in the Atlantic region.
Local leaders highlight long-term growth potential
Beatriz Calzada, President of the Port Authority of Las Palmas, said the opening demonstrates the port’s readiness to support further growth while providing high-quality services for cruise operators and passengers.
Meanwhile, Mehmet Kutman, Chairman of Global Ports Holding, emphasized the long-term strategic importance of the Canary Islands within global cruise itineraries.
He noted that the new terminal will help reinforce the region’s position as one of the leading cruise destinations in the Atlantic.
Upcoming international cruise event
The newly opened terminal is also set to host the upcoming **Seatrade Cruise Med conference later this year, bringing together cruise industry leaders, port authorities and tourism stakeholders from across the Mediterranean and Atlantic cruise markets.
The event is expected to further highlight the growing role of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria as a key hub in the global cruise industry.
