The Port of Galveston celebrated its 1.5-millionth cruise passenger on December 6, setting a record-breaking milestone and showcasing its growth as a leading cruise destination.
On December 6, the Port of Galveston celebrated a significant achievement by welcoming its 1.5-millionth cruise passenger of the year. Katrular Buchanan and her family from Amite, Louisiana, received warm congratulations from Rodger Rees, the Galveston Wharves port director and CEO, as they prepared to embark on the Disney Magic for a four-night adventure.
“We are excited for the Buchanan family and appreciate their support,” stated Rees. “This accomplishment underscores the robustness of our collaboration with Disney Cruise Line and the dedication of our cruise clientele.”
The port expects to exceed 1.6 million passengers by the close of 2023 and aims to inaugurate its fourth cruise terminal in November 2025. The project, valued at $156 million, will include an onsite parking garage and enhanced roadways.
The ongoing growth assures considerable economic advantages for local enterprises, suppliers, and maritime services. The Port of Galveston’s cruise business is experiencing growth thanks to new ships and destinations. A fourth terminal, scheduled to open in November 2025, features a $156 million complex with parking and enhanced roadways.
Port Director Rodger Rees emphasized the advantages for travellers, who will enjoy increased options, and for locals, whose employment in cruise-related sectors, ranging from maritime services to hospitality, will experience a beneficial effect.
Galveston is set to achieve more than 380 cruise departures this year, with projections for 2025 indicating over 400 sailings and 1.75 million passengers.
Mark your calendars! The 2025 Mardi Gras Galveston parade, featuring over 20 events and performances by local krewes, is set for Saturday, February 22.
Galveston Island’s history gains a long-overdue spotlight as James Helton and Wavery Guidry, two Black lifeguards who made over 30 rescues during the Jim Crow era, are honored with a Texas Undertold Story Marker.