Source: Concept developed by T. Notteboom, A. Pallis and J-P Rodrigue.
To further expand the concept of port regionalization, a parallel tract for passenger and cruise activities can be considered, which can take place independently or in co-development with freight activities. The setting of cruise services usually involves for a port of call, the use of an existing general pier, or tendering (1). As the number of cruise port calls increases, additional piers and tendering services can be used (2), leading to an intensification of cruise-related activities. The growth and potential of a port call for cruise activities are judged significant enough to justify the construction of a dedicated cruise terminal, usually at an alternative site (3). This could lead to the redevelopment of the port site for other activities, including cruise-related functions (recreational areas, restaurants, hotels).
Further, during the specialization phase (3), container shipping saw the establishment of transshipment hubs, improving network connectivity. In the cruise sector, the establishment of offshore island port calls, often owned by cruise lines, has added value to itineraries. As transshipment hubs improve container shipping connectivity, offshore islands add buffering capabilities, as they can serve as a port of call if another port needs to be dropped off an itinerary.
The regionalization phase (4) primarily applies to cruise turn ports seeking to expand their market reach through improved connectivity and access to their regional market base, thereby driving cruise port regionalization. This implies:
- Airport connectivity. A better integration with nearby airports, including check-in counters and shuttles, allows cruisers a more seamless transition between the hinterland (cruise source market) and the cruise port. The airport can serve as a satellite terminal for the cruise port, underscoring that airport connectivity affects the potential of the cruise source market.
- Rail connectivity. Rail stations tend to be located closer to main cruise terminals, particularly in Europe and East Asia. High-speed rail services are improving intercity connectivity and the cruise source market at a scale similar to that of air transportation. The rail station can serve as a satellite terminal for the cruise port.
- Shuttle connectivity. The setting of inland collection points where cruisers can take a shuttle bus directly to the cruise terminal. These shuttles mainly call from airport and rail terminals.
- Drive-to cruises. They are particularly prevalent in North America, creating a unique array of port-city relations, namely the demand for parking space near cruise terminals and large influxes of visitors around cruise departures and arrivals. Convenient parking extends the cruise source market by enabling customers to park in a facility adjacent to or nearby the cruise terminal.
- New or expanded cruise terminal facilities. These facilities are designed to enable more efficient passenger throughput during intensive embarkation and disembarkation periods.