Tarragona Cruise Port

Main information

Tarragona Cruise Port, positions the port as a premier cruise destination in the Mediterranean, capable of accommodating larger ships and more passengers. Tarragona’s proximity to Barcelona’s airport, just an hour away, opens up numerous opportunities to become a homeport. The close connections and ease of access between the airport and the port make Tarragona the gateway to Tarragona’s UNESCO destination due to its Roman legacy, the Poblet Monastery, and the Biosphere Reserve of the Ebro Delta. Additionally, Reus, the hometown of the renowned architect Gaudi, offers visitors exquisite examples of Catalan Modernism. Port Aventura World, featuring three of Europe´s leading theme parks guarantees a fun-filled experience for guests of all ages. Also, the area is distinguished for its producers of outstanfing wines, (Denominations of Origin) These Denominations of Origin represent the diveristy and quality of Tarragona´s wine regions, each with its own unique characteristics and wine traditions. The combination of cultural, recreational, and gastronomic experiences ensures that visitors have a diverse and enriching experience when they arrive in Tarragona.

With ongoing investments in facilities and services, Tarragona Cruise Port is poised to become a major player in cruise tourism, benefiting both the local economy and visitors seeking unique travel experiences.

History

Tarragona has evolved significantly over the years, reflecting the growth of cruise tourism in the region. Initially, Tarragona served primarily as a commercial port, but with the rise in popularity of cruise travel, it began to adapt its facilities to accommodate this new market. In 2013, the Port of Tarragona decided to incorporate cruise tourism into its strategic objectives as a new line of business and began investing in improving its port infrastructure, aiming to attract more cruise ships and passengers with the construction of the new Balears wharf, which features 4 hectares of quay, inagurated in October 2021. This development led to potential growth in the number of vessels docking at the port, showcasing Tarragona’s rich history, culture, and stunning Mediterranean coastline. In 2022, Global Ports Holding PLC, the world´s largest cruise port operator, won the concession to manage and develop the new cruise terminal, which was inagurated in June 2024.

Philosophy

Sustainability is at the core of the terminal’s design. Strategically located at the Balears Wharf of Port Tarragona, the new terminal has been meticulously designed with a focus on functionality, energy eco-efficiency, and passenger comfort. They have incorporated a range of environmentally friendly technologies and practices, such as energy-efficient lighting, solar panels, and advanced waste management systems. Additionally, they have implemented water-saving fixtures and landscaping with native plants to minimize water usage. Safety and accessibility have been fundamental pillars in its design, with the implementation of advanced measures to ensure a comfortable and secure experience for all passengers, including those with reduced mobility.