MSC Cruises negotiations would see Galveston Wharves add a fourth cruise terminal
MSC Cruises has plans for a brand new homeport on the Port of Galveston, Texas. The cruise line is in negotiations with Galveston Wharves and each entities have signed a non-binding memorandum of understanding (MOU) outlining parameters of a possible settlement for the event and operation of a terminal at Galveston’s piers 16-18.
“The prospect of developing a new homeport in Galveston is exciting because it represents a big step in our ongoing North American expansion,” stated Rubén A. Rodríguez, president, MSC Cruises USA. “Bringing our modern, glamorous ships to Texas would provide even more access and opportunities for guests and travel advisors to experience the future of cruising with MSC Cruises and our unique European style. We look forward to productive discussions with the Galveston Wharves as we chart MSC’s future in the U.S. market.”
“Adding MSC to our family of cruise lines homeporting from Galveston would continue to elevate our status as a top U.S. cruise port and boost the regional economy,” stated Rodger Rees, Galveston Wharves port director and CEO. “It also allows MSC to reach a new market of millions of cruise passengers in the Central U.S. We’re excited about the huge potential of this mutually beneficial public-private partnership.”
“Our popularity as a cruise homeport is reflected in the growth of our passenger counts and sailings. In 2023 we forecast a record 362 sailings, the highest in the port’s 22 years as a cruise port,” Rees added. “This is great news for the port and our region because our cruise business is a major revenue and jobs generator.”
Rees famous {that a} fourth cruise terminal is included within the port’s 20-Year Strategic Master Plan, designed to information main capital and upkeep initiatives to maximise property; optimize the port’s cruise, cargo, industrial and lay enterprise sectors; and increase the regional economic system with jobs and revenues.
MSC Cruises at the moment sails from Miami and Port Canaveral, with year-round service from New York City starting in April of 2023. Headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, it’s a part of the privately held Mediterranean Shipping Company group.
