The Port of Galveston has secured a 10-year contract with Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, marking a shift from seasonal to year-round operations. The $100 million terminal, set to open in November 2025, will also accommodate MSC Cruises, expanding Galveston’s cruise offerings.
The Port of Galveston has established a significant long-term partnership with Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings (NCLH), indicating a transition from seasonal to year-round operations. Norwegian Cruise Line has secured a 10-year contract to establish the Port of Galveston as a homeport, beginning in 2025, following two years of offering seasonal trips. This agreement features renewal options, demonstrating a solid commitment to the Texas port.
The agreement will enable Norwegian Cruise Line to make use of a new $100 million cruise terminal that is presently being constructed. The terminal, set to open in November 2025, is being developed on the site of a former cargo warehouse and will serve as Galveston’s fourth cruise terminal. The facility will additionally function as a homeport for MSC Cruises, which is set to commence operations with the MSC Seascape.
NCLH's dedication may reach beyond Norwegian Cruise Line, presenting potential opportunities for its other brands, Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises, to plan future departures from Galveston. The goal of this diversification is to enhance the port's attractiveness and cater to a wider variety of travelers.
With this new agreement in place, Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva, two sister ships, are set to embark from Galveston, providing Western Caribbean itineraries. This increased presence underscores Galveston's rising significance as a strategic homeport, not only within Texas but throughout the Gulf Coast, drawing more visitors and enhancing local tourism.
