Greenock Cruise Port marks a landmark year on the Clyde

   November 27, 2025 ,   Cruise Industry

Greenock Cruise Port, now operating under the stewardship of Global Ports Holding/GPH, has completed one of its most productive seasons, the first fully sailed under GPH’s command.

The 2025 calendar brought 145,166 passengers through the Clyde aboard 82 vessel calls, among them 6 maiden visits and a varied roster of lines that included Ambassador Cruise Line, Atlas Voyages, Ritz-Carlton, SunStone, and Virgin Voyages. The surge in traffic far outpaced earlier years and delivered notable gains for shoreside enterprises ranging from tour operators and transport services to merchants and cultural attractions.

Operationally, the port set fresh benchmarks in turnaround efficiency, guest handling, and safety, strengthening its standing among northern cruise destinations. GPH’s UK General Manager, John Mawer, observed that the season had proved a milestone for the port and indicated that its success had been driven by close cooperation with cruise partners and local interests. He added that GPH intended to advance this momentum through further investment in facilities and continued improvements to the passenger experience, aiming to amplify the port’s value to both its partners and the surrounding region.

During the coming off-season, the port will commence a significant upgrade programme. Plans include a redesigned terminal and revised marquee arrangements to enhance homeporting operations, together with improvements in wayfinding and connectivity that are expected to deepen ties with the local community and present visitors with a clearer path to the highlights of Scotland’s west coast. The berth list for 2026 already shows 75 expected calls and a similar passenger total to the 2025 season, placing the port on a steady course for continued expansion and refinement.

Situated on the River Clyde with direct approaches from the Firth, Greenock serves as a principal gateway to Glasgow and the Scottish Highlands. Its vantage along key northern routes ensures its role as a dependable port of call for itineraries spanning the British Isles, Ireland, and the Nordic region.