- Marina Bay Cruise Centre Singapore to undergo major upgrade.
- S$40m expansion to increase passenger capacity.
- SATS-Creuers’ operator agreement extended potentially until 2037.
Singapore’s cruise industry is set for a significant boost with the announcement of a multi-million dollar upgrade to its main cruise terminal.
Overview of the Announcement
In a press release by STB, it was revealed that the Marina Bay Cruise Centre Singapore (MBCCS) will undergo its most extensive upgrading works since opening in 2012.
The announcement, made on 11 April 2025, marks a significant milestone for Singapore’s cruise industry.
This upgrade aims to enhance the passenger experience and increase the terminal’s capacity.
Details of Marina Bay Cruise Centre Upgrading
The expansion project includes several key improvements to the cruise centre.
A new check-in area for cruise passengers will be added to streamline the boarding process.
The terminal will also feature updated amenities to enhance comfort and convenience.
A larger Ground Transport Area (GTA) will be constructed to improve accessibility.
This new GTA will include more bus parking bays and ride-hailing lots.
Part of the current GTA will be transformed into the new check-in area.
This redesign will allow for dedicated check-in spaces for each cruise ship during dual ship calls.
Financial and Contractual Details
SATS-Creuers Cruise Services Pte Ltd (SATS-Creuers) will spearhead the nine-month upgrade.
The project is set to commence in the first quarter of 2025.
Recognising the importance of this upgrade, the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) has extended SATS-Creuers’ operator agreement.
The extension is for eight years, with an option for an additional two years.
This agreement could potentially run from May 2027 to March 2037.
The contract extension was officially formalised on 18 December 2024.
The total cost of the upgrades is estimated at about S$40 million.
Impact and Benefits of the Upgrade
The expansion will significantly enhance MBCCS’s capabilities.
The terminal will be better equipped to handle increased passenger volumes.
It will also improve the management of dual ship calls.
MBCCS’s capacity will grow substantially, from 6,800 to 11,700 passengers.
Passengers can look forward to additional lounge facilities and larger seating areas for embarkation and disembarkation.
The upgraded check-in stations will be able to accommodate two larger cruise ships simultaneously.
Ground transportation accessibility at MBCCS will be significantly enhanced.
The improved GTA will facilitate better passenger access to and from the terminal.
Traffic flow will be improved by widening a section of Marina Coastal Drive.
There will be an increase in the number of pick-up and drop-off points for buses and passengers.
Stakeholder Perspectives
Key industry leaders have expressed their enthusiasm for the project.
According to STB, Bob Chi, Chairman of SATS-Creuers, said, “This terminal refresh underscores our intent to make Marina Bay Cruise Centre Singapore one of the best stopovers for cruise ship passengers.”
The upgrade also reinforces Singapore’s position as a crucial hub for the cruise industry.
Mehmet Kutman, Chairman & CEO of Global Ports Holding, was quoted by STB as saying, “Singapore is a key hub for the cruise industry, and SATS-Creuers’ commitment to upgrading Marina Bay Cruise Centre Singapore highlights its dedication to delivering world-class passenger experiences.”
The Singapore Tourism Board also sees great potential in the upgrade.
As quoted in STB, Ong Huey Hong, Assistant Chief Executive, Industry Development Group, Singapore Tourism Board, mentioned, “Singapore’s cruise industry is projected to grow steadily with year-round sailings, seasonal homeporting, and a robust calendar of transit calls from a diverse range of international cruise lines.”
About the Involved Parties
SATS-Creuers is a joint venture between SATS and Creuers del Port de Barcelona S.A.
The company has been operating MBCCS since 21 May 2012.
SATS is a leading provider of gateway services and food solutions in Singapore.
Creuers del Port de Barcelona, a wholly owned subsidiary of Global Ports Holding (GPH), operates Europe’s leading cruise home port.
Global Ports Holding holds the title of the world’s largest cruise port operator.
The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) plays a crucial role as the lead development agency for tourism in Singapore.
Do you think this Marina Bay Cruise Centre expansion will significantly boost Singapore’s appeal as a cruise destination?
