By
Alex Smith |
Marina Bay Cruise Centre Singapore (MBCCS), managed by Sats-Creuers Cruise Services, has completed a S$40 million ($30.8 million) upgrade to enhance passenger experience and meet growing demand for cruise travel in Asia.
Managed by Sats-Creuers Cruise Services, the redevelopment has reconfigured passenger flow and upgraded infrastructure to handle simultaneous calls from two large ships. A new dedicated check-in hall on Level 1, serving Pier 2, features 70 counters and more than 500 seats, while the existing Level 2 hall continues to serve Pier 1. Both check-in halls now include VIP lounges for premium travellers.
“The new check-in hall, redesigned passenger flows, and expanded facilities mark a transformative step for MBCCS,” said Gregory Tan, CEO of Sats-Creuers. “By streamlining check-in, introducing early baggage drop-off, upgrading ground transport, and deploying innovative back-end systems, we are improving efficiency and convenience for passengers and cruise operators alike.”
The terminal’s new ground transport area has been designed to improve accessibility and ease congestion. It includes widened roadways, expanded coach bays and an early baggage drop-off system allowing luggage to be transferred directly to ships. Ride-hailing bays have more than doubled, and a looped shuttle service now connects the terminal with Marina South Pier MRT station on select cruise days.
Sats-Creuers Cruise Services
The new ground transport area includes widened roadways and expanded coach bays
For travellers driving to MBCCS, a new Advanced Carpark Reservation System allows parking to be booked up to 60 days in advance at discounted rates. A buggy service is available to assist passengers with reduced mobility.
Behind the scenes, the terminal has implemented a Vehicle Slot Management System that uses real-time tracking and automated scheduling to manage deliveries and reduce congestion. The system coordinates provisions such as food, linens and ship stores, ensuring mega ships can be efficiently resupplied even during dual calls.
“In partnership with the Singapore Tourism Board, this upgrade underscores our commitment to strengthening Singapore’s cruise industry,” said Bob Chi, chairman of SATS-Creuers. “Together, we aim to raise service standards, attract leading cruise lines and unlock greater opportunities for Singapore’s dynamic tourism ecosystem.”
Passenger convenience has also been enhanced with new third-party services offering baggage transfer to Singapore hotels and Changi Airport, along with shuttles to popular attractions such as Gardens by the Bay and Chinatown. MBCCS has also reinstated its Cruise-Fly Service, which enables international passengers to check in and tag luggage for same-day connecting flights, allowing them to explore the city before continuing their journey.
Sats-Creuers Cruise Services
PortDeck is a convertible bench-table system
The terminal has also introduced PortDeck, a convertible bench-table system designed to optimise space and improve comfort during peak travel periods – a first for a maritime passenger terminal.
“The enhanced Marina Bay Cruise Centre Singapore exemplifies our Tourism 2040 ambition of creating an attractive destination by strengthening our tourism offerings,” said Ong Huey Hong, assistant chief executive of industry development group at Singapore Tourism Board. “Through our partnership with Sats-Creuers, we are future-proofing our tourism landscape by delivering world-class infrastructure that meets the needs of evolving traveller expectations while reinforcing Singapore’s position as a leading cruise destination in the region.”
Mehmet Kutman, chairman and CEO of Global Ports Holding, added: “This milestone reflects our shared vision with Sats and the Singapore Tourism Board to make Marina Bay Cruise Centre a benchmark for operational excellence in Asia. As cruise travel continues to expand across the region, this upgraded facility will enhance the passenger journey and exemplify Singapore’s continued leadership in shaping the future of cruise travel across Asia.”