The Port of Galveston is redirecting cruise passenger traffic around its main terminals through early December as construction and expansion continue, including the opening of a fourth cruise terminal next month.
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The Port of Galveston is adjusting traffic routes for cruise passengers until Dec. 5 to ensure smooth vehicle movement as road construction and terminal expansion progress in anticipation of next month’s grand opening of the island’s latest cruise facility.
Travelers heading to Carnival Cruise Line's Terminal 25 must now enter and exit at 23rd Street, according to port officials. Meanwhile, passengers bound for Terminal 28, a shared facility by Carnival, Disney Cruise Line, and Princess Cruises, should use 33rd Street. Delivery trucks servicing cruise ships will continue to enter at 33rd Street and exit at 40th Street.
The temporary routes aim to alleviate congestion around Harborside Drive in light of rising construction and traffic levels. The port is actively urging travelers at both terminals to utilize its designated parking areas and take advantage of shuttle services to access the terminals.
Galveston is preparing for a significant change as it gears up for the opening of its fourth cruise terminal on Nov. 9 at Pier 16. A new terminal is set to accommodate Norwegian Cruise Line and MSC Cruises, signifying the inaugural homeporting of MSC, a major player in the cruise industry, in Texas. The Pier 16 terminal complex features approximately 700 surface parking spaces, along with a seven-story garage that offers over 1,600 additional spots.
The expansion highlights Galveston’s rise as a significant cruise hub in the United States. The Port of Galveston anticipates that over 3.4 million passengers will transit through its terminals in 2025, a number expected to increase with the commencement of operations at the new facility.
A recent AAA Travel study predicts ongoing expansion in the industry nationwide, with approximately 21.7 million Americans expected to embark on at least one cruise in 2026—a 4.5 percent increase from the 20.7 million anticipated in 2025. A recent study revealed that a significant 72 percent of travelers favor itineraries in the Caribbean, which continue to be the main routes available from Galveston.
According to the report, Miami, Port Canaveral, and Fort Lauderdale lead the U.S. cruise market with shares of 10.2%, 8.8%, and 5.6%, respectively, while Galveston holds the fourth position with a 4.1% share. The port's ongoing expansion aims to elevate its status as more Texas travelers choose nearby cruises.
Port authorities have announced that the expanded terminal facilities and redesigned traffic patterns will enhance the experience for both residents and the millions of tourists who visit the island annually.
With the opening of the new Pier 16 terminal in November, port officials are set to evaluate and modify the temporary traffic flow to guarantee smooth access to all Galveston cruise terminals.
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