The organisations have signed a memorandum of understanding outlining possible agreement
By
Amber Hickman |
MSC Cruises and Galveston Wharves have signed a memorandum of understanding for a potential agreement to open a new homeport for the cruise line at the port in Texas, USA.
The agreement would include the development and operation of a fourth terminal at piers 16-18 at Galveston.
“The prospect of developing a new homeport in Galveston is exciting because it represents a big step in our ongoing North American expansion,” said Rubén A. Rodríguez, president of MSC Cruises USA. “Bringing our ships to Texas would provide even more access and opportunities for guests and travel advisors to experience the future of cruising with MSC Cruises and our unique European style. We look forward to productive discussions with the Galveston Wharves as we chart MSC’s future in the US market.”
The fourth terminal would form part of the port’s 20-year master plan, which aims to guide major maintenance projects that will help the business’ assets, optimise its cruise sector and boost the local economy.
“Adding MSC to our family of cruise lines homeporting from Galveston would continue to elevate our status as a top US cruise port and boost the regional economy,” said Rodger Rees, port director and CEO of Galveston Wharves. “It would also allow MSC to reach a new market of millions of cruise passengers in the Central U.S. We’re excited about the huge potential of this mutually beneficial public-private partnership.”
MSC Cruises aim to announce more details next year, including launch timings, ship names and itineraries.