Port of Galveston Begins Construction on $151 Million Cruise Terminal for MSC Seascape
Construction is now underway at the Port of Galveston as the facility transforms a former cargo warehouse into a new cruise terminal. The $151 million project at Pier 16 will feature a 165,000-square-foot terminal and a $55 million parking garage. Slated to open in November 2025, the new terminal will serve as the homeport for MSC Seascape, enhancing the port’s capacity and offering upgraded amenities for cruise travelers.
A groundbreaking ceremony was held on August 20, 2024, to mark the start of construction. The event was attended by executives from MSC Cruises, the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), local officials, community leaders, and other port partners. During the ceremony, Rodger Rees, Galveston Wharves port director and CEO, and Rick Sasso, MSC Cruises U.S. chairman, revealed a large-scale rendering of the terminal complex, complete with MSC Seascape docked alongside.
Rodger Rees emphasized the significance of the new terminal for the local economy. He stated, “This milestone is a major achievement for our community, cruise guests, and port partners. The new terminal will drive job creation, economic growth, and provide an exciting new cruise option. We are thrilled to welcome MSC Cruises, the world’s third-largest cruise line, to Galveston, underscoring our strong position in the U.S. and global cruise markets.”
With the addition of the fourth terminal, the Port of Galveston is expected to accommodate over two million passengers annually, marking a new record in its 24-year history as a cruise homeport. The development will also create approximately 925 new jobs and generate $177 million in local business revenue each year. Furthermore, the City of Galveston will benefit from increased passenger fees and tax revenues from cruise parking.
Rick Sasso highlighted the importance of the new terminal in MSC Cruises’ U.S. expansion plans. He said, “The groundbreaking of Cruise Terminal 16 represents a key milestone in our growth across the U.S. Adding Galveston as our fourth homeport will make it more convenient for travelers from central and western regions to experience our unique blend of European sophistication and American comfort. This state-of-the-art terminal will enhance the overall cruising experience, and we are excited to work closely with Galveston Wharves to shape the future of cruising in Texas.”
U.S. Congressman Randy Weber also expressed his enthusiasm for the project. “The groundbreaking of our fourth cruise terminal is transformative for our community. Rodger Rees’s leadership is positioning Galveston as a top cruise destination. I will continue to support our ports in Congress to ensure they receive the necessary backing,” Weber commented.
The new cruise terminal at the Port of Galveston signifies a major advancement, promising to elevate the region’s cruise industry and offer a top-notch experience for travelers aboard MSC Seascape.