The Port Authority of Almería (APA) has taken another step in improving passenger services, specifically for cruise passengers, by awarding the construction contract for an exclusive terminal dedicated to them. This new facility will be situated in the southwest of the Maritime Station and underscores a strong commitment to cruise tourism, which has seen a significant 40% increase in cruise calls at the Port of Almería over the past year.
Rosario Soto, president of the APA, emphasized the importance of providing quality facilities for travelers. "For the Port Authority of Almería, it is essential to offer quality facilities to travelers, and we continue to work towards this goal," she stated. She noted that following the investment of nearly €2.8 million in a new fixed walkway and finger pier connecting ferries and cruise ships to the Maritime Station, the creation of this independent terminal for cruise passengers is now underway, with execution planned for the first quarter of 2027. Soto will also attend the upcoming Seatrade Cruise Med to promote the port's enhancements to industry operators.
The contract for the works has been awarded to Transformaciones y Embalses Parra for an amount of €689,899.89 (VAT included). The execution period will be four months from the site survey report. The new terminal will allow cruise passengers direct access from the ship to a space independent of other passengers, featuring a tourist information point and other services to facilitate their transfer to the city center.
The area designated for this project covers over 422 square meters. It will include the exclusive zone for cruise passengers and renovated facilities for the State security forces. The terminal will be spread across two floors and will feature a panoramic adapted elevator. Level 0 will have private access and an access control point, while Level 1, accessible by public stairs or the adapted elevator, will house a large waiting area with charging points, internet access, and a tourist information desk.
In parallel with the internal adaptation of the Maritime Station, the APA is working on improving the architectural aesthetics of this and adjacent buildings. These actions, aligned with opening the port to the city, also aim for energy efficiency in the properties as part of its commitment to environmental sustainability. The consortium Ferrer-GMÁSP is currently drafting the basic and execution project, which will cover the maritime station (8,244 m2), a multi-purpose building (647 m2), and two annex buildings (481 m2 and 244 m2).
