Published on
September 16, 2025
In an exciting move for South America’s tourism and cruise industry, Santos, Brazil’s largest homeport for cruise ships, is set to unveil a new, world-class cruise terminal by the 2029-30 season. The project is designed to cater to the growing demands of the cruise sector, as well as enhance the port’s infrastructure and elevate its status on the global cruise map. This ambitious development will see a new terminal that meets international standards, allowing Santos to better accommodate some of the largest cruise ships in the world.
This modern terminal is part of an extensive effort to revitalize the area surrounding Santos’ port, turning it into a hub for both travelers and tourists. The new facility promises to bring much-needed improvements in both capacity and efficiency, paving the way for a flourishing cruise tourism industry in Brazil and beyond.
Major Upgrade for Santos Port
Santos, located in São Paulo State, is already recognized as South America’s top cruise homeport, handling more than 60% of Brazil’s cruise passengers annually. However, as the cruise industry continues to grow, the existing infrastructure has become inadequate for the increasing traffic and the demands of larger, more modern vessels. To address this issue, the new cruise terminal will be strategically placed in a more accessible section of the port, offering improved transport links and easier passenger movement.
The terminal’s design will prioritize modern amenities, with a focus on guest experience. It will feature multi-story parking facilities to accommodate more than 1,300 cars, along with a bus parking area capable of hosting up to 30 buses. This will ensure smoother passenger flow for embarkation and disembarkation, significantly enhancing the overall travel experience.
A Look at the New Features
One of the most significant features of the new terminal is its ability to welcome the world’s largest cruise ships, with three dedicated berths and boarding bridges that are designed to handle massive passenger numbers efficiently. A food hall will also be incorporated into the space, giving passengers a range of dining options before or after their journey. With a strong emphasis on optimizing guest movement, specialized areas will ensure that boarding and disembarking operations are well-organized, reducing wait times and confusion for travelers.
This development goes beyond merely expanding the physical capacity of the port. The project is part of a broader effort to create a vibrant new tourism district in the heart of Santos’ historic old town. This initiative seeks to combine modern infrastructure with the charm of Santos’ heritage, creating a unique experience for both cruise passengers and locals.
Strategic Partnership and Funding
This new terminal will be built through a collaboration between private sector investors and local authorities, including the operator of the current terminal, Concais. The initiative aims to enhance the existing facilities and extend Concais’ contract with the Santos Port Authority (APS) for another ten years. The project will be privately funded, with Concais investing significantly to ensure the new terminal’s success.
In exchange for its investment, Concais will take over the new terminal once completed, replacing the existing facilities that will eventually be closed. The agreement between Concais and APS has a long history, dating back to the 1990s, and the 2018 contract renewal set the stage for this major development.
Enhancing Cruise Tourism in Brazil
The addition of a modern cruise terminal to Santos’ port will have a far-reaching impact on Brazil’s cruise industry. As South America’s busiest cruise port, Santos plays a central role in the global cruise network. This upgrade will position the city to handle even more cruise traffic in the future, supporting both the local economy and tourism industry.
The development also comes at a time when Brazil is looking to reassert its position as a key destination for international cruise ships. With the new terminal, Santos is aiming to become a more attractive embarkation point for international travelers, boosting regional tourism in addition to offering high-end cruise experiences.
The Bigger Picture: Revitalizing Santos’ Old Town
The terminal is not just about handling more ships but also about transforming the surrounding area into a lively tourism district. This urban renewal plan will integrate the port’s modern facilities with the historical charm of Santos’ old town. The new district is expected to attract more visitors, providing ample opportunities for local businesses and tourism-related services to flourish.
As part of this larger redevelopment project, local authorities hope to improve infrastructure and accessibility in the surrounding areas, making Santos an even more appealing destination for tourists. In combination with the cruise terminal, the revitalized old town district will create a seamless transition from port to city, enhancing the visitor experience and contributing to the long-term growth of the region.
Looking Ahead to the 2029-30 Season
As the 2029-30 cruise season approaches, the people of Santos and the wider tourism sector are eagerly anticipating the arrival of the new terminal. The project promises to be a game-changer for the port, allowing it to serve more passengers and bigger ships while providing top-tier facilities that will attract global cruise operators. The development of this terminal is not just about infrastructure; it’s about making Santos a more appealing destination for travelers, offering convenience, comfort, and a truly modern cruise experience.
