Marvelous Metropolis

De Janeiro’s cruise port gets its moment in the sun 

- Lucy Bryson

APPEARANCE COUNTS FOR A LOT in Rio de Janeiro. Known as the Cidade Maravilhosa (Marvelous City) by Brazilians, the 2016 Olympic City is rightly proud of its stunning natural landscape and the golden curves of soft sand that throng with impossibly good-looking people. It’s home to one of the Seven Modern Wonders of the World — the statue of Christ the Redeemer atop Corcovado Mountain — and its Carnival is the most spectacular show on the planet.

But until recently, the scene greeting cruise passengers at Rio’s downtown port was a long way from the tourist images of the city. Cruise ships berth at Pier Mauá, and although it’s a long-standing favorite South American destination for cruise ships, it is only now that the surrounding area has become a compelling destination for visitors.

In the biggest overhaul of the city in 30 years, the Porto Maravilha (Marvelous Port) project is uncovering one of the most architecturally and culturally rewarding parts of the city, while improving urban infrastructure, installing 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) of cycle paths and a light rail system linking the port with the metro and bus stations.

Until recently, cruise passengers docking at the bay would hop straight into taxis and tour buses rather than linger in this insalubrious part of town. But with billions of dollars being pumped into the revitalization and redevelopment of the area, passengers are now disembarking in one of the liveliest and most modern areas of Rio.