The Port of Seville Cruises has officially opened its 2026 season, marking the beginning of a new era under the management of Global Ports Holding (GPH) and Ocean Platform Marinas (OPM), in collaboration with the Port Authority of Seville. This inaugural call signifies the start of a 25-year partnership between GPH and OPM, who will manage cruise and megayacht operations at the port. This long-term collaboration aims to position Seville as a leading destination for cruise ships and megayachts, based on a sustainable, high-value-added tourism model that reflects the city's international cultural prestige.
Between February and December, approximately 90 cruise ship calls are scheduled throughout the year. Among them is the Belle de Cadix, which uses Seville as its home port. In addition, four cruise ships will be calling at the city for the first time.
The cruise season at the Port of Seville begins with the arrival of the 180-meter-long Azamara Journey. For the fourth consecutive year, Azamara Cruises is inaugurating the cruise season in the city. On board are 670 passengers, primarily from the United States and Canada, along with 400 crew members, who will enjoy an extended two-night stay in the heart of Seville.
“From this first port call in 2026, Seville will benefit from the management of industry leaders who have placed their trust in the port's potential to position the city as a cruise and megayacht destination, promoting a sustainable, high-value tourism model,” stated Rafael Carmona, president of the Port Authority of Seville, during the visit to the ship. Also present at the event were Angie Moreno, Seville City Council's Delegate for Tourism, and representatives from Global Ports Holding and Ocean Platform Marinas.
As part of this new phase, Beatrice Rasmini has been appointed Managing Director of the Port of Seville Cruises. With extensive experience in the sector, Rasmini will be responsible for daily operational management and the strategic execution of the investment plan. Her leadership will be key to improving the passenger experience, modernizing port infrastructure, and strengthening relationships with cruise lines and the luxury yacht sector. Under her direction, the port aims to offer personalized, high-value services, in line with Seville's reputation as an international destination.
“Our goal at the Port of Seville Cruises is to implement Global Ports Holding’s world-class operating standards in one of Europe’s most iconic destinations. In collaboration with Ocean Platform Marinas, we will ensure that every cruise ship and megayacht call receives personalized, high-quality service that reflects Seville’s unique character. We are also delighted to have Beatrice Rasmini leading the team; her expertise will be fundamental to this collaboration, which goes beyond simply managing a port: it’s about creating a seamless experience for every traveler,” said Francesc Grau, GPH’s West Med Regional Director.
For his part, Ignacio del Río, partner and head of Assets at Ocean Capital Partners, explained: “The awarding and implementation of this project allows us to promote a differentiated model for Seville, with a clear focus on the large yacht segment. There is a growing demand for ports that combine operational excellence, specialized services, and a unique integration between the port and the destination, and Seville meets all these conditions.”.
According to the planned business model for the Port of Seville, Global Ports Holding and Ocean Platform Marinas will enhance the experience for both passengers and cruise lines, optimize operations, and offer personalized services tailored to each vessel. The project also includes infrastructure modernization, with the renovation of the existing terminal and the construction of a new cruise terminal in the Port Urban District, once operations are relocated to this area. GPH and OPM will invest over five million euros in this project.
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