GREENOCK Cruise Port welcomes its first vessel of the season this weekend, following a significant winter transformation programme.
The terminal, operated by Global Ports Holding, hosts 10,000-tonne Le Lapérouse, operated by Ponant, on Sunday (12 April).
Greenock 2026 Cruise Ship List
The port has undergone a series of infrastructure and guest experience improvements over the winter months, all designed to deliver a higher quality and more seamless experience for cruise guests, crew and partners.
Enhancements include removal of outdated gates, widened guest walkways, upgraded security arrangements, improved seating areas, enhanced passenger flow routes, and quicker baggage handling services to better support turnaround operations.
The port’s marquee facility has also been upgraded to create an improved guest environment and expanded retail offering, helping showcase more local products and experiences to visiting passengers.
Within the terminal building, a new welcome facility has been introduced to improve guest orientation and strengthen the arrival experience from the moment guests step ashore.
The 264 guests and 112 crew on board Le Lapérouse will be the first to benefit from the changes as they arrive at the end of a 10-night Norwegian cruise. The ship will leave on a seven-day Celtic Shores itinerary, ending in Dublin.
The call marks the first of 14 turnaround visits by Ponant during the 2026 season, underlining growing confidence in Greenock as a turnaround destination and gateway to Scotland.
More than 77 cruise calls are scheduled at Greenock this year, bringing an estimated 145,000 visitors.
John Mawer, GPH UK Cruise Ports general manager said: “The completion of our winter enhancement programme marks a significant milestone in the evolution of Greenock Cruise Port. These improvements are not merely infrastructure updates; they represent a strategic commitment to defining Inverclyde as a premier international gateway.
“By optimizing passenger flow and refining our terminal facilities, we have created a sophisticated environment that meets the rigorous demands of global cruise lines and the high expectations of their guests.”
