CGH Cruise Gate Hamburg GmbH, Cruise Center HafenCity
he Cruise Center HafenCity is currently under construction. The new terminal is being built on the site of the southern Überseequartier, with two berths, an…
The Port of Hamburg is a leading centre for cruise shipping. Here passenger vessels were already being despatched on winter pleasure cruises by Albert Ballin, HAPAG’s Director-General, back in the late19th century. Then in 1899 Ballin awarded the first contract for a purpose-built cruise ship to Hamburg shipyard Blohm & Voss. The “Prinzessin Victoria Luise” was the world’s first officially classified ‘cruise ship’.
In the 2023 cruise season, 278 ships with over 1,200,000 passengers called at the Port of Hamburg.
Hamburg is one of the most popular cruise destinations in Europe, as illustrated by constantly growing passenger numbers on the Elbe. Hamburgians adore the great liners, while shipowners are thrilled by the unique atmosphere, maritime events and media attention. No other port offers just this combination. Since 2017, Elbe Philharmonic Hall has loomed as an additional highlight. Superb service from Hamburg’s port and services sector and a unique infrastructure are further attractions. Irrespective of whether what’s needed is an efficient turnaround day in the new Steinwerder Terminal or an overnight stay in HafenCity – Hamburg always has the right solution.
Terminal operator Cruise Gate Hamburg (CGH) is responsible for organizing and coordinating smooth operation and marketing of all terminals in Hamburg as a cruise hub. Operating the three cruise terminals in Altona, HafenCity and Steinwerder as well as the “Überseebrücke” berth at St. Pauli Landing Stages, CGH is the central point of contact for cruise shipping companies, among other things for allocating berths. The firm’s basic aim is to guarantee transparent “Cruise shipping from one source”.
Hamburg Tourism markets Hamburg as a tourist destination both in Germany and internationally. The company also functions as a tour operator specializing in Hamburg packages. HHT cooperates with the cruise industry in developing pre- and post-cruise arrangements that enable passengers to extend their trips in Hamburg. HHT also creates shore excursions in the Hamburg Metropolitan Region and provides advice for the cruise industry.