Celebrity Apex Inaugurates Europe’s Largest Cruise Terminal in Las Palmas

Las Palmas Cruise Port has officially opened its brand-new terminal — now the largest cruise terminal in Europe — welcoming Celebrity Apex as the first ship to dock at the state-of-the-art facility on October 2, 2025.

The arrival of Celebrity Apex marks a major milestone for Gran Canaria, signalling the start of a new era for the island as a leading Mid-Atlantic cruise hub.

A Landmark for Gran Canaria’s Cruise Scene

Operated by Global Ports Holding (GPH) in partnership with SEPCAN, the new terminal spans 14,000 square metres across two floors. It’s designed to accommodate up to four cruise ships at once, offering both homeport and transit operations with ease.

The building includes three modern boarding bridges and a bright, spacious passenger area featuring retail outlets, cafés, and comfortable lounges, all created to give guests a welcoming start or finish to their cruise holiday.

Outside, an expansive 17,800 m² esplanade connects the port seamlessly with the Santa Catalina Park and city boulevard, featuring landscaped walkways and a restored palm grove — making it one of the most attractive embarkation points in Europe.

Celebrity Apex berthed in Las Palmas, Gran Canaria - Alfonso Palumbo / Facebook

Sustainability at the Heart of the Design

Built by Satocán as part of a €40 million investment plan to modernize cruise infrastructure across Gran Canaria, Fuerteventura, and Lanzarote, the new terminal puts sustainability front and centre.

Its construction incorporates recycled and eco-friendly materials, solar energy systems, and responsible waste management practices. Together, these make Las Palmas Cruise Port one of Europe’s greenest and most advanced maritime facilities.

The Las Palmas Port Authority also played a key role, improving surrounding areas to ensure a smooth and safe flow for both passengers and crew.

A Celebration Fit for the Occasion

To commemorate the historic inaugural call, officials hosted a plaque exchange ceremony between the captain of Celebrity Apex and representatives of the Port Authority. Guests were also treated to a tasting of traditional Gran Canarian specialties, organised with support from the Puerto Canteras Association, giving passengers a flavour of the island’s rich culture.

Beatriz Calzada - President of the Las Palmas Port Authority, Susana Gutiérrez - General Manager of GPH Canary Islands Cruise Ports and Captain Panagiotis Skylogiannis - master of Celebrity Apex.

Voices from the Port

Beatriz Calzada, President of the Las Palmas Port Authority, praised the achievement:

“Las Palmas Cruise Port represents a major step forward in our infrastructure and service offerings. With this terminal, we strengthen the Canary Islands’ position in the Mid-Atlantic and establish Las Palmas as a key hub for both homeport and transit cruise operations.”

She also highlighted the project’s commitment to sustainability, calling it a model for responsible port development across Europe.

Susana Gutiérrez, General Manager of GPH Canary Islands Cruise Ports, added:

“This project marks the beginning of a new era for the Port of La Luz. With this infrastructure, we take a decisive step towards the professionalization of cruise services and reaffirm our commitment to sustainable growth on the island.”

A Bright Future for Cruise Tourism in the Canaries

With its combination of modern design, efficiency, and environmental responsibility, the new Las Palmas Cruise Terminal is set to handle a rapidly growing number of cruise passengers in the coming years.

Beyond the infrastructure, the project is expected to deliver significant benefits to the local economy — supporting businesses across hospitality, transport, retail, and tourism sectors.

For passengers, it’s a gateway to an island known for its sunshine, volcanic landscapes, and warm hospitality. For the industry, it’s a sign that the Canary Islands are ready to anchor themselves as one of Europe’s premier cruise destinations.