Construction is underway at the Port of Galveston to transform an existing cargo warehouse into a state-of-the-art cruise terminal at Pier 16. The $151 million project, which will include a 165,000-square-foot terminal and a $55 million parking garage, is set to become the home port for MSC Seascape when it opens in November 2025.
The Port of Galveston celebrated this milestone on August 20, with a ceremony attended by port officials, MSC Cruises executives, and community leaders. Galveston Wharves port director and CEO Rodger Rees and MSC Cruises U.S. chairman Rick Sasso unveiled a large-scale rendering of the new terminal, marking the official start of construction.
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Rees highlighted the significance of this development, noting that it would boost the local economy, create jobs, and enhance Galveston’s status in the global cruise market. “This beautiful new terminal will generate jobs and economic growth for the region,” Rees said, adding that the port expects to welcome over 2 million passengers annually starting in 2026, a new milestone for the port.
MSC Cruises’ Rick Sasso emphasized the terminal’s role in the company’s U.S. expansion, making it more accessible for travelers across the central and western United States. “This state-of-the-art terminal will set the tone for a memorable cruise experience,” Sasso stated.
The economic impact of the port’s cruise activity is substantial, with the new terminal expected to generate 925 additional jobs and $177 million in local business revenue annually. U.S. Congressman Randy Weber praised the investment, calling it a “game-changer” for the community.
The Port of Galveston, a vital maritime center since 1825, is the fourth most popular cruise home port in the U.S. and continues to grow as a key player in both the cruise and cargo industries. MSC Cruises, headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, operates 22 modern ships and is committed to achieving net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.
Source: Construction Begins on Galveston’s 4th Cruise Terminal: Future Home of MSC Seascape
