Holland America Line's Maasdam was the first to berth at the facility when it reopened
By
Rebecca Gibson |
Holland America Line’s Maasdam became the first ship to dock at Montreal’s newly renovated Iberville Passenger Terminal at Old Port on 10 June.
Designed by architectural firm Provencher_Roy, the updated terminal provides the Canadian port with better reception facilities for passengers and crew.
Maasdam, her crew and her guests were welcomed at the new terminal by Sylvie Vachon, president and CEO of Montreal Port Authority (MPA), Mayor of Montreal Denis Coderre, and Isabelle Melançon, MNA for Verdun, who represented the Government of Quebec.
“We are very proud to have successfully completed this important project that represents a milestone in the Port of Montreal’s modern history,” said Vachon. “Now fully up and running, this new terminal bolsters the city’s international positioning by offering an efficient, friendly and prestigious welcome to cruise passengers from all over the world, and all just in time to celebrate its 375th anniversary.”
Revitalisation works to complete the Port Interpretation Centre, green roof, parking area and a large public square at Alexandra Pier will continue over the summer. The official opening ceremony will take place on 10 September. A signature tower will be inaugurated at the far end of the terminal in 2019.
“The Alexandra Pier revitalisation project enables us to heighten Montreal’s appeal and welcoming capacity, which will help make the city and the province even more attractive as world-class destinations,” said Melançon.
The US$78 million Iberville cruise terminal and Alexandra Pier project started in November 2015. It was jointly funded by the Government of Quebec (US$20 million), the City of Montreal (US$15 million) and the MPA (US$43 million).
“The City of Montreal is very pleased to be a partner in this major undertaking,” said Denis Coderre, Mayor of Montreal. “The Port of Montreal is a founding component in the city’s history. Over the years, it has remained a vital economic engine of our economy. The opening of this terminal is a perfect fit with Montreal’s 375th festivities. All our visitors will enjoy an even more impressive welcome.”