Panama recently celebrated the inauguration of its new cruise ship port near the Panama Canal entrance on the Pacific coast. The project was completed in collaboration with the China Harbor Engineering Company, says an article published on loadstar website.
Summary
- Panama recently inaugurated a new cruise ship port on its Pacific coast near the Panama Canal entrance, in collaboration with China Harbor Engineering Company.
- President Laurentino Cortizo highlighted the terminal’s role in boosting tourism by creating new routes and attracting more visitors to Panama.
- The terminal, costing over $200 million, is the first of its kind on the Pacific coast and complements the existing port in Colon on the Caribbean side.
- Denise Guillen from the Panama Tourism Authority noted significant growth in the industry, with cruise ship passengers exceeding 320,000 in 2023, double the previous year’s numbers.
Boosting Tourism
President Laurentino Cortizo emphasized the terminal’s significance in boosting tourism in Panama by creating new tourism routes and attracting more visitors to the country.
Cost And Significance
The terminal, costing over $200 million, is the first of its kind on Panama’s Pacific coast and is strategically located to appeal to cruise operators and passengers, complementing the existing port in Colon on the Caribbean side.
Tourism Growth
Denise Guillen from the Panama Tourism Authority highlighted the robust expansion of the industry, with a substantial increase in cruise ship passengers exceeding 320,000 in 2023, double the previous year’s numbers.
Challenges With The Panama Canal
The terminal’s opening coincides with challenges faced by the Panama Canal due to record-low water levels, affecting ship navigation. Ricaurte Vasquez, the canal administrator, expressed optimism for restoration by February through ongoing water level management efforts.
Strategic Investment In Tourism
Panama’s investment in tourism infrastructure reflects a proactive approach to leverage its geographic advantage and promote economic growth despite challenges faced by the canal.
Strategic Move
The launch of the new cruise ship terminal strategically expands Panama’s tourism potential and aims to attract a diverse range of tourists, contributing to the country’s tourism and economic development goals.
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Source: marine insight
