A consortium headed by Global Ports Holding (with a 51% stake), alongside local partner Steya (holding 40%), and Ocean Infrastructures Management (with 9%), has secured the bidder status for a 15-year concession to manage Casablanca’s newly developed cruise terminal. This decision comes after a competitive public tender process, and the consortium is currently in negotiations with the Agence Nationale des Ports (ANP) to finalize the terms.
Casablanca, the largest city in Morocco, offers cruise travelers a rich tapestry of traditional Moroccan heritage intertwined with modern experiences. Acting as the primary cruise hub for destinations like Rabat and the vibrant Marrakech, soon to be accessible within a mere 1.2 hours via the upcoming bullet train project scheduled for completion before the 2030 FIFA World Cup, jointly hosted by Morocco, Spain, and Portugal. Visitors can explore a myriad of attractions ranging from historic mosques and cathedrals to quaint neighborhoods, serene beaches, and lively promenades.
Strategically positioned on the Northwest coast of Africa, Casablanca serves as a pivotal port of call for cruises heading to the Canary Islands and the Western Mediterranean, as well as transatlantic voyages between Europe and the Caribbean. An ambitious €60 million investment led by ANP is earmarked for the construction of a state-of-the-art cruise berth, terminal facilities, and maritime infrastructure, significantly augmenting the port's operational capacity. With the enhancements, the port can now accommodate vessels of up to 350 meters in length and is poised to welcome an estimated 400,000 passengers annually. The Casablanca Cruise Port is poised to become a cornerstone of the region's maritime tourism landscape, offering unparalleled experiences to travelers from around the globe.