The Port of Tarragona (Spain) has opened the new Parc del Port, transforming former port areas into a 30,000 m² public green space. The project, with an investment of over €3.2 million, increases green areas by more than 60% and prioritises pedestrians and cyclists through low-emission mobility design. Conceived as an intergenerational space and climate refuge, the park integrates native vegetation, sustainable drainage systems and shaded areas to mitigate heat and flooding risks. New features such as a central plaza, urban forest and improved connections to the Moll de Costa and waterfront enhance accessibility. The initiative reflects a broader strategy to reconnect the port with the city while adapting waterfront spaces to climate challenges.

The Port of Bahía Blanca (Argentina) is expanding its educational outreach through two programs targeting schools and teachers. A new edition of “Campus Portuario” offers certified training for educators, focusing on port logistics, environmental management, and the estuary’s role in regional development. In parallel, the “Mi Puerto” initiative continues its educational navigation program, enabling students and community groups to visit port areas by boat and learn about port operations and ecosystems. The program includes guided tours, onboard explanations, and direct observation of infrastructure, strengthening the understanding of the port’s functions and its environmental context. Since it was launched 5 years ago, the program has engaged more than 580 institutions with more than 10 000 students.

The Tasmanian government (Australia) has unveiled the new master plan for Macquarie Point, a major redevelopment project aimed at transforming a 9.3-hectare former industrial site on Hobart’s waterfront. The development is centered around a 23,000-seat roofed stadium, set to host the future Australian Football League (AFL) expansion team, the Tasmania Devils, from 2031. The plan also includes around 100 housing units, retail spaces, hotels, restaurants, public areas, and a hub dedicated to Antarctic activities. Initially estimated at AUD 715 million, the stadium’s cost has risen to AUD 945 million, while the overall development could exceed AUD 1.13 billion. However, the project remains highly controversial among local communities.

Wind propulsion is gaining momentum in Brittany (France). The Brittany Region, the municipality of Groix, and the Compagnie des Ports du Morbihan have namely awarded a sail-powered ferry service to Bah Hatoup. For its second season, the britton company aims to double or even triple visitors on its catamaran Les 3 Mailles, reaching 8,000 to 9,000 passengers a year. The vessel, which can carry up to 48 passengers, will serve four ports with two round-trip weekends and holidays in the low season, and daily in July and August. Nearby, in the cruise sector, Chantiers de l’Atlantique unveiled a new 256-metre cruise ship concept equipped with four SolidSail rigs at the Seatrade fair in Florida.

Juneau’s (USA) Áak’w Landing project will construct a new downtown cruise ship dock and waterfront destination. In 2022, the three-acre parcel of land that will be used for the new terminal was donated to Huna Totem, a Native-owned entity and a key player in Alaska’s tourism industry. The lease agreement follows Juneau Assembly and Planning Commission approvals and years of collaborative effort and public engagement. This development will significantly alleviate vehicle congestion on Marine Park and South Franklin Street while enhancing pedestrian access to nearby attractions and shops. It will feature public spaces, dining, retail, and cultural experiences. Additionally, Áak’w Landing aims to improve harbor safety and air quality by relocating anchored ships to a dock equipped with shore power capabilities.

In response to the increase in water sports activities along the waterfront, the Port of Toronto (Canada) has decided to ban the use of motorised boats and watercraft, such as jet skis, in certain key areas. The port, which is responsible for issuing permits, is keen to provide a safe environment for various leisure activities (swimming, paddleboarding, etc.). The authorities are establishing a legal framework to better penalise illegal commercial practices in parks, on beaches and at boat moorings. Surveillance will take place on beaches and on the water. This policy will be accompanied by a major communication campaign to better educate users on best practices. At the end of the season, a study will determine whether or not to continue this policy. This policy comes at a time when the ferry service is expanding, hence the need for regulation of practices.