MEDIA

10 Oct 2025

Las Palmas’ New Cruise Terminal Welcomes Its First Call

Las Palmas Cruise Port’s newest terminal — the largest cruise terminal in Europe — has officially begun - operations with the arrival of Celebrity Apex, which docked at the Santa Catalina Pier on October 2, 2025. This inaugural call marks the operational launch of the new facility and the beginning of a key chapter for Gran Canaria as a premier international cruise destination.

Operated by Global Ports Holding and its local partner SEPCAN, the new terminal spans 14,000 square meters over two floors, featuring three boarding bridges and the capacity to accommodate up to four vessels simultaneously. Its design supports both transit and homeport operations efficiently, while offering retail and dining areas that enhance the passenger experience from the very first moment—projecting a modern, welcoming, and sustainable image of the island.

Complementing the indoor facilities is an exterior esplanade exceeding 17,800 m², featuring landscaped areas, pedestrian walkways, and a restored palm grove that leads seamlessly to the city boulevard, strengthening the terminal’s connection to Las Palmas de Gran Canaria.

The new terminal forms part of a €40 million investment plan led by this strategic partnership to modernize cruise infrastructure across Gran Canaria, Fuerteventura, and Lanzarote. The construction, carried out by Satocán, was guided by strict environmental and innovative criteria, including the use of recycled and eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient systems, solar power, and responsible waste management. This positions Las Palmas Cruise Port as a benchmark in Europe’s port sector.

The project also benefited from the support of the Las Palmas Port Authority, which contributed to the renovation and enhancement of the surrounding areas, ensuring a seamless, safe, and comfortable experience for both passengers and operators.

To mark the occasion, a commemorative plaque exchange was held with the captain of the Celebrity Apex and representatives of the Port Authority, followed by a tasting of traditional Gran Canarian products, organized in collaboration with the Puerto Canteras Association, welcoming the first cruise guests to experience the new facility.

Beatriz Calzada, President of the Las Palmas Port Authority, highlighted the significance of this milestone:

"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. 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."

Susana Gutiérrez, General Manager of GPH Canary Islands Cruise Ports, added:

"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. With this infrastructure, we take a decisive step towards the professionalization of cruise services and reaffirm our commitment to sustainable growth on the island. Our immediate goal is to help strengthen Gran Canaria’s position as a leading international cruise destination."

With this new terminal, Las Palmas Cruise Port is well-prepared to accommodate a growing volume of cruise passengers efficiently, further boosting the local economy through increased activity in commerce, hospitality, food service, and other key sectors. Thanks to its modern design, comprehensive facilities, and strong sustainability focus, the terminal reinforces Gran Canaria’s reputation as a competitive and well-prepared destination in the Mid-Atlantic cruise market.