MSC Cruises and Royal Caribbean Launch New Naha Cruise Terminal
MSC Cruises and Royal Caribbean Group have started construction of a new cruise terminal at Naha Port in Okinawa, Japan, in a major investment aimed at strengthening cruise tourism, port infrastructure and passenger capacity across Japan and East Asia. The project is being developed through their joint venture, Cruise Port Naha, with operations targeted to begin in March 2028.
The groundbreaking brings together MSC Cruises, Royal Caribbean Group, Naha Port Authority and Cruise Port Naha as Japan continues to expand its cruise infrastructure to meet growing regional demand. The new terminal is expected to improve cruise operations, passenger experience and port efficiency, while strengthening Naha’s role as a regional gateway for international cruise itineraries.
Joint Venture Leads Naha Terminal Development
Cruise Port Naha is a joint venture between CTL Maritime and RCL Cruises, representing the respective interests of MSC Cruises and Royal Caribbean Group.
Under the Cruise Hub Formation Agreement concluded with the Naha Port Authority in August, Cruise Port Naha will develop and operate the new cruise terminal. Construction has now formally begun, with completion and the start of operations targeted for March 2028.
Jason Liberty, chairman and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group, said Japan is one of the company’s most important cruise markets in Asia and emphasized the group’s long-term investment in the country.
He said the project is intended not only to bring cruise guests to Japan but also to support infrastructure that can benefit the local community over the long term.
Investment Strengthens Japan’s Cruise Tourism Potential
From an industry perspective, the Naha terminal represents more than an expansion of berthing facilities. Investment in modern cruise infrastructure can improve passenger handling, operational efficiency and the ability of ports to accommodate growing cruise demand. Naha’s location also gives the facility strategic importance as a gateway connecting Okinawa with major cruise destinations across Asia.
Liberty said the future of cruising in Japan would depend on shared ambition, collaboration and responsible innovation.
Modern Facilities Planned for Growing Cruise Demand
The new terminal will feature modern facilities designed to enhance the passenger experience and operational efficiency of cruise calls in Okinawa.
Naha’s strategic location provides year-round accessibility and positions the port as a regional gateway for cruise itineraries. Once completed, the terminal will accommodate advanced cruise ships and increase passenger capacity to support growing demand for cruises in Asia.
Pierfrancesco Vago, executive chairman of the cruise division of MSC Group, said Okinawa is strategically positioned among some of Asia’s major cruise destinations and has significant potential for future growth.
He said the project forms part of MSC’s long-term strategy to expand its presence in the region and create more opportunities for passengers of MSC Cruises and Explora Journeys to experience Asia throughout the year.
Vago added that continued investment in itineraries and infrastructure would make cruising more accessible to international and Asian travellers while strengthening regional connections.
He also welcomed the partnership with Royal Caribbean Group and the Naha Port Authority, saying the investment would support the future growth of cruise tourism in Okinawa and across Asia.
Government Support for Cruise Infrastructure
The project follows Naha Port’s designation in 2019 by Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism as an International Cruise Ship Hub Formation Port.
The designation provides an important foundation for the terminal project and highlights the role of public-private collaboration in developing Okinawa’s tourism and cruise infrastructure.
The new facility is therefore part of a broader effort to support the long-term development of cruise tourism while improving the infrastructure available to international cruise operators.
Traditional Japanese Ceremony Marks Construction Start
The groundbreaking ceremony was held at the future terminal site and included a traditional Japanese ceremony marking the formal beginning of construction.
The event brought together public officials and representatives from the project’s key organizations, including Okinawa Governor Genta Koja, representatives from the Cabinet Office of Japan, Naha Port Authority, Cruise Port Naha, MSC Cruises and Royal Caribbean Group.
With completion planned for March 2028, the Naha terminal is set to become an important addition to Japan’s cruise infrastructure and could strengthen Okinawa’s position within the expanding Asian cruise tourism market.
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