Galveston prepares for MSC and Disney cruise expansions at terminals

During the recent joint meeting of the Galveston City Council and the Wharves Board of Trustees, significant discussions centered around the expansion of the cruise industry in Galveston, highlighting both opportunities and challenges for the local economy.

One of the key topics was the upcoming opening of the fourth cruise terminal, scheduled for November 2025, which will welcome MSC Cruises. This terminal is expected to enhance Galveston's position as a cruise destination, especially as other lines, including Norwegian Cruise Line, plan to operate part-time in the area. However, concerns were raised regarding the high capital cost recovery fees associated with the new terminal, which could deter other cruise lines from entering the market. Currently, the fee stands at $10 per passenger for the MSC terminal, compared to $3 for the recently renovated Cruise Terminal 25.

The meeting also addressed the anticipated growth of the cruise business in the Western Caribbean, with major players like Disney planning to expand their operations in Galveston by 2027. Disney is expected to introduce a larger ship, catering to families, which aligns with the growing interest in family-oriented cruise experiences. Additionally, there are discussions about another cruise line that could complement Disney's offerings, although details remain under wraps as negotiations are still ongoing.

Another point of discussion was the potential expansion of Cruise Terminal 10. The port authority is exploring options for building an additional berth, which would require board approval and a land lease agreement. A proposal for $100 million to support this expansion was submitted as part of the Texas plan, although initial funding requests were significantly higher.

These developments reflect a broader strategy to capitalize on the booming cruise industry, which is seen as a vital component of Galveston's economic growth. As the city prepares for these changes, local leaders are focused on ensuring that the benefits of increased cruise traffic translate into tangible advantages for the community, including job creation and enhanced tourism.