Inauguration Ceremony for Cruise Terminal in Manta - Ecuador

The new Cruise Passenger Terminal in Manta (Manabi) is a result of the successful Public Private Partnership (APP) in Ecuador.  This was highlighted on the night of Friday, October 19th 2018, during the inauguration ceremony inside the modern building, located in the most tourist area of the Manabi Port.  The area is more than 7,000 square metres, 1,300 as part of the building construction and 5,700 square metres in parking space and green areas.

Luis Mancilla, the general manager of AGUNSA Chile, stressed that the investment of the terminal was additional to the delegation of the port of Manta that the company assumed as a commitment.  “In 19 months a lot has been done, Manta now has the most modern and avant-garde terminal in this region.”  He said that the Ecuadorian one will become an icon, next to the Valparaiso Terminal (Chile) which the group also has.  He added that there are already several cruise operators interested in increasing the offer to become a part of the South Pacific.  During 19 months of operation, the Chilean investment in the port amounts to over USD 33 million in different works such as the dredging of the docks and the operation area.

The ambassador for Chile, Eduardo Tapia, highlighted that there are important Chilean investments in Ecuador.  He announced that next Tuesday (October 23rd) a delegation of 17 businessmen from his country will meet in Quito with President Lenin Moreno.

The mayor for Manta, Jorge Zambrano, highlighted the tourism potential of Manta and Manabi, but said that there “needs further government support” in roads and infrastructure works.  In addition, he called for the tourist sector to work on the quality of service for cruise passengers arriving at the port, as they will mainly be older adults.

Source: ElComercio.com