Genoa and Savona Invest in Infrastructure, Clean Energy, and Sustainable Mobility
The ports of Genoa and Savona are advancing an ambitious strategy to enhance sustainability, improve infrastructure, and strengthen their position as leading cruise destinations in the Mediterranean.
The initiative is being developed through a multi-phase approach designed to evaluate the cruise sector’s evolution, measure its economic impact, and identify opportunities to support long-term sustainable growth.
Understanding the Cruise Ecosystem
The first phase of the project focuses on defining the future development scenario of the cruise sector and identifying key stakeholders throughout the cruise supply chain in both ports.
The second phase involves gathering data on economic drivers and assessing their impact on local communities. This stage also examines opportunities related to the transition toward clean energy and explores synergies between the ports and Genoa Airport.
The third phase will integrate data collected from both ports and destinations with estimates of local passenger spending, providing a comprehensive understanding of the cruise industry’s contribution to regional economies.
Investing in Sustainable Growth
The Port System Authority (AdSP) has announced significant investments in infrastructure and environmental initiatives, including more than €60 million dedicated to shore power facilities.
In Genoa, the first phase of a shore power system capable of generating 64 MW is expected to be completed by the end of 2025. In Savona, a €10 million investment is underway to electrify cruise berths, with completion scheduled for March 2026.
These projects will allow cruise ships to connect directly to the electrical grid while docked, reducing emissions and supporting broader decarbonization efforts within the maritime sector.
Expanding Cruise Infrastructure
Major expansion works are also progressing at the Ponte dei Mille Levante Cruise Terminal in Genoa.
The project includes:
- Extension of the eastern pier to 376 meters.
- Construction of an elevated waterfront terrace.
- Installation of anti-erosion protection systems along existing docks.
- Expansion of Calata Santa Limbania pier.
The adjacent grain silos, currently undergoing a €133 million redevelopment program, will be transformed into a multifunctional center serving both residents and visitors. Completion is expected by December 2027.
Additional improvements include dredging operations that have deepened seabeds at both Genoa and Savona to 11 meters, enhancing accessibility for larger vessels.
Renewable Energy and Smart Port Solutions
Savona is also implementing two major energy-efficiency projects focused on renewable energy generation and storage.
The initiatives include:
- Installation of photovoltaic systems.
- Development of advanced energy storage solutions.
- Creation of a Smart Grid capable of optimizing energy distribution throughout the port.
Combined investments exceed €24 million, with both projects scheduled to become operational in 2026.
Creating an Integrated Mobility Hub
A key component of the ports’ long-term strategy is improving connectivity between Genoa Airport, the national railway system, and passenger terminals in Genoa and Savona.
The goal is to create a seamless and sustainable transportation network through several major infrastructure projects, including:
- A 600-meter elevated moving walkway connecting Genoa Airport to the future Erzelli/Airport railway station.
- A 300-meter pedestrian connection linking Stazione Marittima to Genoa Piazza Principe railway station.
- The redevelopment of Savona’s maritime railway station, featuring a dedicated passenger platform and direct moving walkway connection to the Palacrociere Cruise Terminal.
These initiatives aim to encourage sustainable travel while improving accessibility for cruise passengers.
Homeports for MSC Cruises and Costa Cruises
Genoa and Savona continue to play a vital role as major homeports for the Mediterranean cruise industry.
In 2024, the two ports welcomed a combined 440 cruise calls and approximately 2.3 million passengers.
Genoa
MSC Cruises recorded:
- 304 cruise calls
- 1.5 million passengers
- More than 600,000 embarking guests
Savona
Palacrociere, Costa Cruises’ primary homeport, recorded:
- 133 cruise calls
- Approximately 753,000 passengers
Building the Future of Sustainable Cruise Tourism
The investments being made in Genoa and Savona demonstrate how ports are increasingly balancing operational growth with environmental responsibility.
Through shore power, renewable energy projects, smart infrastructure, and integrated transportation systems, both ports are positioning themselves at the forefront of sustainable cruise operations while continuing to support economic growth and passenger demand across the Mediterranean region.