Marina Bay Cruise Centre Singapore (MBCCS) reorganized the guest flow to efficiently manage the simultaneous arrival of two megaships through its two existing piers, as part of a USD 40 million upgrade.
The terminal managed by SATS-Creuers Cruise Services (SCCS), now has a new exclusive check-in hall on Level 1, with 70 counters and more than 500 seats, will service Pier 2, while the existing facilities on Level 2 will serve Pier 1, thus ensuring a smoother start to the passengers’ journey. Both check-in halls feature VIP lounges offering comfort and convenience to first-class customers.
The enhanced facilities go beyond check-in. The new Ground Transportation Area (GTA) improves accessibility and comfort for all passengers, with wider streets, more bus bays, and an earlier baggage drop-off area, which allows luggage to go directly to the ship.
This helps move through the terminal more quickly, reduces waiting times, and facilitates the start of the cruise. Furthermore, the number of spots for ride-sharing services has been doubled to meet the growing demand from passengers, while a shuttle bus service on certain days connects the Marina South Pier MRT station with the terminal, thus facilitating travel to and from MBCCS.
For tourists who prefer to drive, the new Advanced Parking Reservation System allows reserving spots up to 60 days in advance at reduced prices, thus ensuring a hassle-free start to the vacation. An adapted buggy service is also offered to help passengers with reduced mobility travel between the GTA and the terminal.
The new MBCCS services further enhance passenger convenience. The terminal partnered with preferred providers to offer baggage transfer services to all Singapore hotels and Changi Airport, as well as transportation services to popular attractions like Gardens by the Bay and Chinatown on certain cruise days.
MBCCS has also reintroduced the Cruise-Fly service for international passengers disembarking in Singapore, allowing them to check-in and tag their luggage for same-day connecting air travel. This allows tourists to explore the city luggage-free before continuing their itinerary.
Additionally, an innovative Vehicle Space Management System was implemented that leverages real-time tracking and automated scheduling to optimize provisioning management and minimize congestion. The system coordinates the delivery of essential supplies, such as food, linens, and provisions for the vessels, ensuring that megaships carrying thousands of passengers are replenished efficiently and can depart as scheduled, even during simultaneous two-ship turnarounds.
As a first for passenger sea terminals, MBCCS also designed and launched PortDeck, an innovative system of convertible tables in the terminal areas to optimize space, operational efficiency, and passenger comfort during peak travel periods.
“The new check-in hall, the optimization of passenger flow, and the expansion of facilities represent a transformative step for MBCCS.
By streamlining check-in, introducing early baggage delivery, modernizing ground transportation, and implementing innovative management systems, we improve efficiency and convenience for both passengers and cruise companies. We invite travelers and cruise companies to enjoy the ease and comfort of cruise travel at MBCCS,” said Gregory Tan, CEO of SATS-Creuers.
Bob Chi, Chairman of SATS-Creuers, stated that “this significant enhancement underscores our commitment to the growth of Singapore’s cruise industry in collaboration with the Singapore Tourism Board. Together, we aspire to elevate service standards, attract leading cruise companies, and generate greater opportunities for the country’s dynamic tourism ecosystem.”
Mehmet Kutman, Chairman and CEO of Global Ports Holding (parent company of Creuers), said that “this milestone reflects our shared vision with SATS and the Singapore Tourism Board to make the Marina Bay Cruise Centre a benchmark for operational excellence in Asia. As cruise travel continues to expand across the region, these modernized facilities will enhance the passenger experience and exemplify Singapore’s consistent leadership in shaping the future of cruise travel in Asia.”
Ong Huey Hong, Deputy Executive Director of the Industry Development Group at the Singapore Tourism Board, explained that “the enhancement of the Marina Bay Cruise Centre in Singapore exemplifies our Tourism 2040 ambition of creating an appealing destination by strengthening our tourism offerings.”
“Through our collaboration with SATS-Creuers, we are laying the groundwork for the future of our tourism sector by offering first-class infrastructure that meets the needs of changing traveler expectations, while reinforcing Singapore’s position as a leading cruise destination in the region. As we chart the next chapter of tourism, these enhancements underscore the crucial role of cruise tourism in our broader ecosystem of sustainable and quality growth,” concluded Ong Huey Hong.
