Multi-million investment into Western Cape cruise liner terminal
1 July 2015
The V&A Waterfront’s multi-million rand investment into the development of a dedicated cruise-liner terminal is a major boost for the Western Cape’s tourism sector (see Cape Argus report).
Alan Winde, MEC of Economic Opportunities, has welcomed the news that Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) has awarded the V&A Waterfront the status of Preferred Bidder for the cruise liner terminal.
The V&A Waterfront will invest R179 million into the project, and will operate the facility for 20 years. After this period, the facility will be transferred back to TNPA.
The facility will remain at E berth, Duncan Dock, in the Port of Cape Town.
According to TNPA, there are plans for the development to include retail and hospitality services.
MEC Winde said the development has the potential to extend the footprint of the V&A Waterfront into the Port, linking the two.
“The V&A Waterfront is already a tourism landmark and can serve as the gateway to the rest of region. Cruise liner tourism presents a significant opportunity for economic growth and job creation. Annually, the industry brings more than 10 000 visitors to the province and international cruise tourists spend around R1 000 a day while docked. The niche industry generates more than R200 million for the local economy each year.”
MEC Winde said the agreement was another excellent example of private-sector led development.
“This is excellent news and the latest in a series of major investments into the economy of the Western Cape. Other investments include the expansion of the Cape Town International Convention Centre and Tsogo Sun’s planned R680 million hotel in the CBD. Also in the V&A Waterfront precinct, we are looking forward to the opening of the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa. These investments show high confidence in our region as a leading tourism and business destination and are evidence that we are succeeding our mission to make the Western Cape a great place to invest.”
Statement issued by Alan Winde, Western Cape MEC of Economic Opportunities, July 1 2015
