STB calls for tenders to operate new cruise terminal

STB deputy director (cruise), Remy Choo, said: “We aim to have the terminal operator appointed by early fourth quarter of 2011 at the latest. The construction of the ICT is on track for completion by end-2011, and the terminal is expected to be fully operationally ready from second quarter of 2012.”

The first operator tender for the International Cruise Terminal (ICT) was released on September 23, 2009. Only one bid, from the Singapore Cruise Centre (SCC), which manages three ferry terminals and a cruise centre, was received at the time. According to Choo, the tender was not awarded “after careful evaluation”.

“STB subsequently engaged both local and international cruise lines and terminal operators further to establish the adoption of the best business model, to make it more attractive for potential bidders to participate,” he explained.

Christina Siaw, CEO of SCC, has confirmed her company's intention to bid again to manage the ICT. “We bring to the table our award-winning expertise and processes honed over 19 years as Singapore's only and Asia's oldest cruise terminal,” she said. “We have the ability to harness economies of scale and leverage on the network effect from two terminals.”

The new tender is open to local and overseas companies with experience in passenger terminal operations and passenger handling. The management contract will run on a 10-year lease term, with the option to renew fo five more years.

Information on the tender procedure is available on the Singapore government’s e-procurement portal, GeBiz (www.gebiz.gov.sg) under the reference number STB/CPD/11-12/RT3. Tender application closes on July 29 (16.00 GMT +8).

(Source: TTG Asia)