Construction began in early October 2026 on a new cruise terminal at Naha Port, Okinawa, through a collaboration involving Naha Port Authority, Cruise Port Naha G.K., MSC Cruises, and Royal Caribbean Group. Cruise Port Naha G.K., a joint venture formed by CTL Maritime and RCL Cruises Ltd., represents MSC Cruises and Royal Caribbean Group interests in the project.
Located in Okinawa, Japan, Naha Port is one of the country’s most strategically positioned ports with year-round accessibility and serves as a gateway for cruise itineraries across East Asia. The port was designated as an International Cruise Ship Hub Formation Port by
Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism in 2019. The new terminal is expected to be completed and operational by March 2028.
The terminal will feature purpose-built, state-of-the-art facilities designed to enhance passenger experience and improve operational efficiency. Cruise Port Naha G.K. will operate the terminal under a Cruise Hub Formation Agreement signed with Naha Port Authority in August 2026. It will accommodate advanced cruise ships and support growing passenger capacity and cruise vacation demand in the Asian region.
Jason Liberty, Chairman and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group, emphasized Japan as a key market and the importance of investing
in infrastructure that benefits the local community. He 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. We do not simply bring guests here, we also invest here and 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’s Cruises Division, highlighted Okinawa’s strategic position in Asia’s cruise landscape, noting, “Okinawa is uniquely positioned at the crossroads of some of Asia’s most exciting
cruise destinations, and we see real potential for its future.” Royal Caribbean Group operates 71 ships worldwide and continues expanding its global presence with investments in infrastructure.
The project represents a public-private collaboration aimed at supporting the long-term development of cruise tourism in Okinawa and strengthening regional connectivity. The traditional Japanese groundbreaking ceremony was attended by Okinawa Governor Genta Koja, representatives from Japan’s Cabinet Office, and company officials from the involved entities.
