New Horizons: Cruise Ship’s Move to Galveston Marks an Exciting Chapter, Says President
Somewhat overshadowed by the ongoing Lone Star Rally, Galveston is set to mark a pivotal moment on Saturday, November 8, 2025. The cruise line MSC Cruises is relocating its ship, the Seascape, from Miami, Florida, to launch its first voyage from Galveston, contributing to the city’s growing significance in the cruise industry. This move marks the introduction of Galveston’s fourth passenger terminal, which will enhance its stature as a notable cruise port.
The rapid arrangement occurred after Galveston Wharves and MSC Cruises reached an agreement in February 2024 to establish a new terminal at Pier 16. Just six months later, a $156.7 million bond package was approved to fund improvements for a 165,000-square-foot terminal, previously occupied by Del Monte.
Lynn Torrent, the President of MSC Cruises North America, expressed enthusiasm for the expansion, stating that Galveston represents a natural progression in MSC’s growth within North America. With its easy accessibility for millions of travelers in the Southwest, the port’s appeal is on the rise.
Cruise offerings from Galveston on the Seascape, which has the capacity to accommodate nearly 5,900 passengers, will initiate at about $370 per passenger for seven-day trips. High-end passengers can opt for the "ship-within-a-ship" MSC Yacht Club, featuring private suites, exclusive dining experiences, and butler services. The ship will incorporate local flavors into its offerings, emphasizing Texas-inspired dishes, local beers, country music performances, and various entertainment options.
In April, Rodger Rees, CEO of the Port of Galveston, projected that Terminal 16 would create 925 jobs and inject $177 million into the local economy. Tourism officials are optimistic that the opening of this terminal will mirror the success previously seen when a new terminal was inaugurated at Pier 10 in late 2022, significantly increasing cruise traffic and spending in the area.
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At CruiseShip.net, our editorial team is made up of passionate travelers, seasoned cruisers, and maritime industry enthusiasts who live and breathe life at sea. From the latest ship launches and destination spotlights to detailed reviews and onboard tips, we are dedicated to helping readers discover the joy of cruising.
Our mission is to make every article both inspiring and useful, whether you are planning your first voyage or your fiftieth. We research, fact-check, and collaborate with cruise insiders around the world to bring you accurate, up-to-date, and exciting coverage of the global cruise industry.
Join us as we chart new horizons, exploring one port, one ship, and one unforgettable experience at a time.
Editorial Team
At CruiseShip.net, our editorial team is made up of passionate travelers, seasoned cruisers, and maritime industry enthusiasts who live and breathe life at sea. From the latest ship launches and destination spotlights to detailed reviews and onboard tips, we are dedicated to helping readers discover the joy of cruising. Our mission is to make every article both inspiring and useful, whether you are planning your first voyage or your fiftieth. We research, fact-check, and collaborate with cruise insiders around the world to bring you accurate, up-to-date, and exciting coverage of the global cruise industry. Join us as we chart new horizons, exploring one port, one ship, and one unforgettable experience at a time.
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