Greenock Ocean Terminal aiming for cruise ship record as first passengers arrive

A new ocean terminal in Inverclyde is set to welcome dozens of cruise liners this year as the first passengers have arrived at the port for the 2024 season.

Greenock Ocean Terminal expects to see 79 cruise liners dock at the new port throughout the year with up to 115,000 passengers estimated to arrive.

A new £20m visitor centre, opened by Princess Anne last year, features a museum paying tribute to artist George Wyllie, a restaurant and roof terrace, and hopes to bring in a record number of passengers.

The port welcomed the Regal Princess ship on Friday, capable of carrying over 3,000 passengers, as the first big vessel to arrive.

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The new visitor centre was officially opened in August 2023 as part of a £20m project.

A combined 500,000 tonnes is estimated for all the vessels arriving this year and collectively the ships span more than 16,000 metres.

Cunard’s new vessel, the 322-metre Queen Anne, will arrive into Greenock on June 1 as part of its maiden voyage.

Jim McSporran, port director at Peel Ports Clydeport said: “We’re looking forward to another busy cruise season at Greenock Ocean Terminal, the first since our new visitor centre was launched.

“The impressive centre is not only a superb facility for cruise passengers, but it also enhances our ability to attract these fantastic vessels to Inverclyde from all over the world, which has a positive impact on local businesses and Scotland’s broader economy.”

The port welcomed the Regal Princess ship on Friday, capable of carrying over 3000 passengers. Peel Ports Group

The visitor centre, launched in August last year, has led to the creation of more than 70 jobs and is expected to bring £26m to the Scottish economy.

The project, led by Inverclyde Council, was part of the £1bn Glasgow City Region City Deal funded by the Scottish and UK governments.

Councillor Stephen McCabe, leader of Inverclyde Council, said: “Inverclyde’s cruise tourism sector has gone from strength to strength in recent years, and we’re delighted it’s going to be another busy year at Greenock Ocean Terminal with some really impressive liners arriving.

“Visitors can expect an outstanding experience, with the Terminal’s new visitor centre providing a first-class welcome.”