A new cruise terminal will be coming to Ravenna, Italy, and Royal Caribbean Group will build it.
The Ravenna Port Authority announced it has awarded tender to construct and operate a new cruise terminal and the concession of its cruise operations in Porto Corsini to RCL Cruises Ltd., a subsidiary of Royal Caribbean Group.
Royal Caribbean Group promises a "innovative new cruise terminal", which will be complete in spring 2024.
The new cruise terminal will showcase integrated landscaping, spanning 12 hectares, with public green spaces, pedestrian and cycling pathways, and entertainment areas for residents and visitors, all celebrating the surrounding natural coastal environment.
Prior to the cruise industry shutdown in 2020, Royal Caribbean was positioned to move its ships from Venice to Ravenna.
Sustainability is a critical aspect of this new terminal, as it has for LEED certification focusing on water and energy efficiency, renewable energy production, recycling and waste management, and sustainable sourcing of materials.
In addition, shore power will be available on the docks to enable ships in port to turn off their engines. To support these efforts, the Port Authority has obtained 30 million euros in funding from Italy’s National Recovery and Resilience Plan (Piano Nazionale di Ripresa e Resilienza, PNRR).
When the terminal is fully operational, the total number of guests is expected to increase to over 300,000 per year, most of whom will begin and end their cruises in Ravenna.
The company believes Ravenna's proximity to Venice, as well as nearby airports in Bologna, Forlì, and Rimini make it ideal for a a significant economic boon with pre- and post-cruise visitors.
Royal Caribbean Group believes a new terminal at the Port of Ravenna will allow for an expansion of options for cruise travelers in the Adriatic region and throughout the Mediterranean. This major infrastructure investment and partnership with the Port Authority is part of the Port Hub marine project which will allow access to a greater number of ships through the North Inner Port area.
"We are so honored to partner with the Ravenna Port Authority on this exciting cutting-edge project which will return growth to Ravenna and bring a new era of cruising to the region. Royal Caribbean has assembled a world-class team that is committed to a high-quality experience through sustainable development while embracing the extraordinary natural beauty and warm hospitality this region has become so well known for. There is a wealth of opportunities for visitors to discover the rich historic and cultural treasures, art and antiquities, the thrill of motor racing, unspoiled nature and beaches, international nightlife and Italian culinary tradition,” said Joshua Carroll, vice president, Destination Development at Royal Caribbean Group.
"We thank the Port Authority, the Municipality of Ravenna, the Emilia Romagna region and the entire port and city community that have welcomed us and supported our project. We are also pleased to partner with our investors at VSL Club in Italy who will join us on this adventure."
On days without ships at berth, the terminal and its walkway over the sea is accessible to both public and private events such as sport competitions, artistic and literary presentations, and much more. Sizable ground floor spaces are suitable for trade fairs and other large gatherings.
