Sevilla Cruise Port has commenced its 2026 season, inaugurating operations under a new long-term management structure led by Global Ports Holding (GPH) and Ocean Platform Marinas in partnership with the Sevilla Port Authority.
The opening call marks the beginning of a 25-year concession during which the joint venture will supervise both cruise and megayacht activity in the Andalusian capital.
The collaboration is intended to consolidate Sevilla’s position within the cruise and large-yacht sectors through a tourism model centred on sustainability and high-value visitation, consistent with the city’s international cultural profile. From February through December, close to ninety vessel calls are scheduled. Among these is the Belle de Cadix, which operates with Sevilla as its homeport, while four cruise ships are due to make inaugural visits during the year.
The season opened with the arrival of Azamara Journey. For the fourth consecutive year, the 180-meter ship marked the commencement of cruise operations in the city. She arrived carrying approximately 670 passengers, largely from the USA and Canada, together with 400 crew members, and is scheduled for a two-night stay alongside in the city centre.
During a visit to the vessel, Rafael Carmona, President of the Sevilla Port Authority, indicated that from this initial call of 2026, the port would benefit from the oversight of established industry operators who had expressed confidence in Sevilla’s capacity to develop as a cruise and megayacht destination under a sustainable and high-value framework. The occasion was attended by Angie Moreno, Councillor for Tourism at Sevilla City Council, along with representatives of Global Ports Holding and Ocean Platform Marinas.
In connection with the new operating structure, Beatrice Rasmini has been appointed General Manager of Sevilla Cruise Port. She assumes responsibility for daily operations and for executing the agreed investment strategy. Her remit includes strengthening relations with cruise lines and the luxury yacht sector, enhancing passenger services and overseeing planned infrastructure improvements, to align port operations with Sevilla’s standing as a leading cultural destination.
Francesc Grau, Regional Director West Mediterranean for Global Ports Holding, stated that the company intends to apply its established operational standards to Sevilla in cooperation with Ocean Platform Marinas, ensuring that cruise and megayacht calls are handled with a level of service reflecting the character of the destination. He further noted that the appointment of Beatrice Rasmini would be central to advancing a collaboration aimed not solely at port management but at delivering a coordinated travel experience for visiting passengers.
Ignacio del Río, Partner and Head of Assets at Ocean Capital Partners, observed that the award and launch of the project create the basis for a differentiated model in Sevilla, with particular emphasis on the large-yacht segment. He indicated that demand is increasing for ports capable of combining technical efficiency, specialised services and close integration between port and city, conditions which he considered Sevilla to fulfil.
Under the adopted business model, Global Ports Holding and Ocean Platform Marinas will seek to refine operational procedures, tailor services to individual vessels and modernise facilities. Plans include refurbishment of the existing terminal and, following the relocation of cruise operations to the Urban Port District, the construction of a new cruise terminal within that area. The joint venture has committed an investment exceeding EUR 5 million to support these developments.