Construction began in October 2026 on a new cruise terminal at Naha Port in Okinawa, Japan. The project is a joint effort by Naha Port Authority, Cruise Port Naha G.K., MSC Cruises, and Royal Caribbean Group. Cruise Port Naha G.K., a joint venture between CTL Maritime and RCL Cruises Ltd. representing MSC Cruises and Royal Caribbean interests, will develop and operate the terminal. The groundbreaking ceremony included a traditional Japanese ceremony and was attended by Okinawa Governor Genta Koja and representatives from Japan’s Cabinet Office.
Facility Purpose and Strategic Importance
The new terminal aims to support growth in cruise tourism in Okinawa and Japan by
increasing passenger capacity and enabling Naha Port to accommodate advanced cruise ships operated by MSC Cruises and Royal Caribbean Group. Naha Port offers year-round access and serves as a strategic gateway for cruise itineraries throughout East Asia and Asia, enhancing operational efficiency and guest experience.
Officials Emphasize Long-Term Vision
Jason Liberty, chairman and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group, stated, “For Royal Caribbean Group, Japan is one of the most important cruise markets in Asia – not only as a destination, but as a long-term partner in our global business.” He added, “With Naha Okinawa, we are investing in infrastructure that will benefit the local
community for years to come.” Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive Chairman of MSC Group, Cruises Division, said, “Okinawa is uniquely positioned at the crossroads of some of Asia’s most exciting cruise destinations, and we see real potential for its future.” He also noted, “This project forms part of our long-term vision to expand our presence in the region and create new opportunities for guests of MSC Cruises and Explora Journeys to enjoy Asia year-round.”
Naha Port Designation and Public-Private Collaboration
The terminal project follows the designation of Naha Port as an International Cruise Ship Hub Formation Port by Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism in 2019.
The Cruise Hub Formation Agreement was concluded in August 2026 between Naha Port Authority and Cruise Port Naha G.K., formalizing a public-private collaboration to strengthen Okinawa’s cruise infrastructure for long-term tourism growth in Japan.
Passenger Benefits and Regional Cruise Market Growth
Set to open in March 2028, the terminal will improve passenger facilities, enhancing comfort and streamlining embarkation and disembarkation. It will support operational needs for Royal Caribbean Group’s 71 ships and MSC Cruises’ 23 ships, addressing rising demand for cruise vacations across Asia. The project aims to increase regional connectivity and strengthen Naha Port’s ability to accommodate growing cruise traffic in Okinawa and East Asia.
