RCI-Royal Caribbean International unveiled the progress on its USD 125 million cruise ship terminal in Galveston TX.
The 161300 ft2 facility is slated for inauguration in November 2022, and when completed, will welcome the largest passenger ship to ever come to Galveston - Allure OTS.
Construction of the building (on Pier 10) started in August 2021. The contractors recently completed the electrical and air conditioning installations. Finishing continues with the IT systems, furniture, and interior design.
The project created ~400 construction jobs and is expected to create ~400 permanent jobs.
The front design of the 68-ft-tall building includes vertical windows, colorful blue panels, and the Royal Caribbean logo. The sunny spot will be decked out in vibrant, tropical colours as a sneak peeks of what is to come on the Galveston voyage.
When finished, the terminal building will become one of the most technologically advanced cruise embarkation/disembarkation facilities in the United States. Mobile check-in and facial recognition to allow passengers to board as quickly and easily as possible are among the features that will enhance the guest experience.
Galveston port is investing ~US$20 million in improvements associated with the terminal, including an inland road, landscaping, cruise ship parking, and utilities. Parking at the terminal with a total of 1,550 spaces will serve as a new income source for the port.
In addition to the Oasis-class Allure of the Seas (among the world's currently top 5 largest cruise vessels), the new terminal will also be home to RCI's liners Adventure of the Seas (from November 2022) and Radiance of the Seas (from January 2023). All the 3 boats will operate Western Caribbean itineraries with lengths from 4 to 10 nights.