SINGAPORE – The Marina Bay Cruise Centre Singapore (MBCCS) has announced its largest upgrade since its opening in 2012. This upgrade will introduce new check-in spaces for cruise passengers, modernized facilities, and a larger ground transportation area (GTA) including expanded bus parking spaces and vehicle call-up zones.

Terminal operator SATS-Creuers Cruise Services is leading the nine-month upgrade project, which is set to commence in the first quarter of this year. This significant investment has led the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) to extend SATS-Creuers’ management contract for the MBCCS by eight years, with an option for an an additional two-year extension. This contract extension, potentially running from May 2027 to March 2037, was formalized with the signing of the amended Management and Operation Agreement on December 18, 2024.

The approximately S$40 million (US$29.6 million) upgrade will enhance the cruise center’s ability to handle more passengers and support dual ship berthing, aligning with the trend of larger cruise vessels docking simultaneously. Post-upgrade, the MBCCS’s capacity is expected to increase significantly from the current 6,800 to 11,700 passengers. Improvements will focus on enhancing the passenger experience, including expanded lounge areas, increased seating capacity, and more check-in stations to accommodate two large ships at once.

The underutilized area at the front of MBCCS will be developed into a new GTA, providing more bus bays and vehicle call-up areas, with an extension of Marina Coastal Drive to improve traffic flow. Part of the existing GTA will be converted into new check-in spaces, offering dedicated areas for each cruise ship during dual berthing. The upgrade work will be carried out in phases to minimize operational disruptions, with the cruise center operating as usual on ship arrival days.

SATS-Creuers, a joint venture between SATS and a subsidiary of Global Ports Holding, has been operating the MBCCS since 2012, leveraging SATS’ expertise in airport ground services. Since then, the terminal has handled over 8 million passengers through more than 2,000 ship calls, contributing to Singapore's strengthening position as a regional cruise hub.

Bob Chi, Chairman of SATS-Creuers, said, "This terminal upgrade underscores our commitment to making MBCCS the preferred intermediate stop for cruise passengers. The upgrade is very timely for the facility to prepare for more intensive operations, including future dual mega cruise ship operations. The upgrade will enhance the efficiency of cruise line operations while elevating the visitor experience."

Mehmet Kutman, Chairman and CEO of Global Ports Holding and parent company of Creuers, added, "This upgrade not only enhances capacity but also aligns with our joint vision of creating a future-ready cruise port, further strengthening Singapore's position as a premier cruise destination in the region."

Ong Huey Hong, Executive Director, Industry Development Group at the Singapore Tourism Board, commented, "Singapore’s cruise industry is poised for continued growth, with year-round sailing, seasonal homeporting, and a strong pipeline of international cruise liners with vibrant fly-cruise itineraries. Recognizing the global trend towards larger vessels, STB is working with SATS-Creuers Cruise Services to enhance the MBCCS. These enhancements will ensure that Singapore remains a leading cruise hub by providing world-class facilities that meet the evolving needs of cruise lines and passengers."