Galveston Seals Long-Term Partnership with NCLH: What It Means for the Future

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings (NCLH) is set to expand its operations in Galveston, marking a significant long-term agreement with Galveston Wharves.

The Galveston Wharves Board of Trustees officially approved the deal on Tuesday, which enables NCLH to utilize the port’s newest cruise terminal, anticipated to open in November 2025.

Rodger Rees, the port director and CEO of Galveston Wharves, expressed, “We’re thrilled that this renowned global cruise operator is increasing its offerings in Texas. Following a period of limited sailings from Galveston in the past two years, NCLH has secured a 10-year agreement with options for renewal that extends far into the future at our stunning new cruise terminal, which has an investment of $100 million.”

The announcement indicates that after three years of seasonal operations, NCLH will operate full-time from the new terminal.

Over the upcoming years, two of NCLH’s latest ships, the Norwegian Prima and the Norwegian Viva, are expected to depart from Galveston.

Juan Kuryla, senior vice president of Port Development & Construction at NCLH, noted, “After collaborating with the Galveston Wharves team for several months, we are eager to reveal this expanded long-term contract, which will also initiate our new Saturday sailings from Galveston. This progress enables us to better cater to our guests in the region, thereby enhancing our footprint in this vital market.”

He further added, “By capitalizing on Galveston’s strategic advantage as a crucial turnaround port, we are broadening opportunities for all three of our brands—Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises, and Regent Seven Seas Cruises. This also fosters significant benefits for the local community by supporting jobs, boosting tourism, and spurring economic development.”

A ceremony to commemorate the agreement will take place on Wednesday, Oct. 16, during the Galveston Economic Development Summit.

The Port of Galveston recently commenced construction in August to transform an existing cargo warehouse into the port’s fourth cruise terminal.

The new $156 million cruise complex at Pier 16 is set to feature a 165,000-square-foot terminal along with a $55 million parking garage.

With the anticipated operation of the fourth terminal, Rodger Rees mentioned the expectation of the port reaching over 2 million passengers annually by 2026, setting a new record in Galveston’s 24-year cruising history.

Currently, Galveston holds the position as the fourth most frequented cruise port in the United States and stands as the only cruise port in Texas.

As reported by Galveston Wharves, the cruise activities at the port in 2023 generated a local impact of 4,547 jobs, $732.5 million in business revenue, and $25.3 million in state and local taxes.