MSC Cruises has announced the next phase of its United States expansion: it’s planning to homeport in Galveston, Texas.
The line is in negotiation with the Galveston Wharves on the development of a fourth terminal at the port. Both parties have signed a non-binding memorandum of understanding outlining the details of a potential agreement for the development and operation of a terminal at 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,” said Rubén A. Rodríguez, president of 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 US market.”
Rodger Rees, Galveston Wharves port director and CEO said “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. 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.”
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MSC Cruises currently sails from Miami and Port Canaveral. In April, the line will begin sailing from Brooklyn, New York as well.
The local impact of Galveston’s 2022 cruise activity includes 3,500 jobs and $568 million in local business revenue. A fourth terminal is forecast to generate an additional 925 jobs and $177 million in revenue.
A fourth cruise terminal is included in Galveston’s 20-year Strategic Master Plan, designed to maximize assets; optimize the port’s cruise, cargo, commercial, and lay business sectors; and boost the regional economy.
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