Thursday, November 30, 2023 - 12:42 by ce-press
The Cruise Center Steinwerder in Hamburg is now designated for shore power. Following the recent delivery of the cable management system in early November, the first ship-and-shore-side integration tests were successfully completed. AIDAprima was the first ship to plug in with further tests with AIDA Cruises and MSC Cruises planned.
Simone Maraschi, managing director Cruise Gate Hamburg, underlines the importance of this development: "We have taken the next step in our journey towards zero-emission at berth. Shore power is a crucial component for us to achieve this goal. The ongoing expansion of the shore power infrastructure in the Port of Hamburg underlines our commitment to transforming into a sustainable cruise hub.“
By 2025, Hamburg aims to have shore power infrastructure capable of supplying cruise ships at all permanent cruise terminals, encouraging cruise lines to rely on eco-friendly shore power while at berth. The Steinwerder terminal complements the existing shore power infrastructure in Altona, which was established in 2016.
HafenCity is set to commence operations in 2025, which will make Hamburg one of the first European ports that offer environmentally-friendly shore power at all permanent terminals.
On 12 November 2023 Hamburg welcomed the one-millionth cruise passenger this year when the MSC Euribia docked in the Hanseatic city. Maraschi emphasised just how important the event was: "Welcoming the one-millionth guest is a very special moment that is not only important to us as the operators of the city’s cruise terminals but to our partners and the city of Hamburg as well. The cruise industry has quickly recovered from the pandemic, and Hamburg has become an attractive all-year-round cruise destination, in particular due to winter cruising.”
Dr Peter Tschentscher, First Mayor of the Free and Hanseatic City of Hamburg, commented: "One million cruise passengers within one year - this number demonstrates how attractive Hamburg is for international cruises and tourism. The industry is an important pillar for the economy and the attractiveness of our city. Many cultural, sports and leisure activities are made possible by tourism and are equally attractive for both, the local residents of Hamburg, as well as our guests from abroad. The Senate and the cruise lines are committed to more climate and environmental protection."
After the 2023 season, which at 280 calls by the end of the year will be the season with the most calls so far, 2024 is currently expected to see 270 calls. Ten cruise ships will be on their maiden voyages to Hamburg (Azamara Onward, COSTA Favolosa, Mein Schiff 7, National Geographic Explorer, Ocean Albatros, Queen Anne, Seabourn Quest, Sirena and Sky Princess), including one from Disney Cruise Line’s Disney Dream which is scheduled to call for the first time on September 3 2024.
