Naha Port Authority, Cruise Port Naha G.K., Royal Caribbean Group and MSC Cruises have marked the start of construction of a new cruise terminal at Naha Port in Okinawa, Japan. The project is intended to strengthen the port’s role in the development of cruise tourism in Okinawa and the wider East Asian market.
Cruise Port Naha G.K. is a joint venture between CTL Maritime and RCL Cruises Ltd., representing the interests of MSC Cruises and Royal Caribbean Group respectively. Under a Cruise Hub Formation Agreement concluded with the Naha Port Authority in August 2026, the joint venture will develop and operate the new terminal. Completion and the start of operations are targeted for March 2028.
The facility is planned as a purpose-built cruise terminal with modern passenger infrastructure designed to improve passenger handling and operational efficiency. It is also intended to support the continued expansion of cruise traffic through Okinawa and increase the port’s ability to accommodate large and technologically advanced cruise ships.
Naha’s location provides year-round access to cruise itineraries across the region and positions the port as a gateway between Japan and other destinations in East Asia. The new terminal is expected to increase passenger-handling capacity as demand for cruise travel in the Asian market continues to develop.
Royal Caribbean Group chairman and CEO Jason Liberty said the company regards Japan as an important cruise market in Asia and as a long-term partner. He indicated that the group’s involvement in the Naha project reflects an investment not only in cruise infrastructure but also in facilities expected to provide longer-term benefits to the local community.
MSC Group Cruises Division executive chairman Pierfrancesco Vago said Okinawa’s location at the intersection of several major Asian cruise destinations provides opportunities for further development. He described the Naha project as part of MSC’s longer-term plans to expand its presence in the region and create additional year-round opportunities for passengers travelling with MSC Cruises and Explora Journeys.
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. It represents a public-private partnership involving the port authority, Cruise Port Naha G.K., MSC Cruises and Royal Caribbean Group.
The groundbreaking ceremony was held at the future terminal site and followed traditional Japanese practices marking the beginning of construction. The event was attended by Okinawa Governor Genta Koja, representatives of Japan’s Cabinet Office and officials from Naha Port Authority, Cruise Port Naha G.K., MSC Cruises and Royal Caribbean Group.
Once completed, the new terminal is expected to provide Naha with additional infrastructure for handling growing cruise traffic and to reinforce Okinawa’s position within regional cruise networks.