Construction began on October 5, 2026, for a new cruise terminal at Naha Port in Okinawa, Japan. This project is a joint effort of Naha Port Authority, Cruise Port Naha G.K., MSC Cruises, and Royal Caribbean Group. Cruise Port Naha G.K. is a joint venture between CTL Maritime and RCL Cruises Ltd., representing MSC Cruises and Royal Caribbean Group interests.
Under the Cruise Hub Formation Agreement signed in August 2026 with Naha Port Authority, Cruise Port Naha G.K. will develop and operate the terminal. Completion and commencement of operations are targeted for March 2028, to enhance the port’s capacity for
modern cruise ships.
Naha Port was designated by Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism as an International Cruise Ship Hub Formation Port in 2019. Located in Okinawa, the port serves as a key gateway for cruise itineraries across the Asia-Pacific region, strengthening regional connectivity and offering year-round accessibility.
The terminal will feature purpose-built modern passenger amenities improving guest experience and operational efficiency. It will accommodate advanced cruise vessels, supporting rising cruise tourism demand and the long-term development of tourism in Okinawa and East Asia.
Royal Caribbean Group operates 71 ships visiting over 1,000 destinations worldwide, while MSC Cruises
operates 23 modern ships visiting more than 300 destinations in over 100 countries. Jason Liberty, chairman and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group, said the company is investing in infrastructure at Naha Okinawa to benefit the local community for years. Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive Chairman of MSC Group, Cruises Division, stated, “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 emphasized the project’s role within MSC Cruises’ long-term vision to expand in Asia, increasing accessibility for international and Asian travelers.
The construction start was marked by a
traditional Japanese groundbreaking ceremony at the terminal site. Attendees included Okinawa Governor Genta Koja, representatives from Japan’s Cabinet Office, and officials from Naha Port Authority alongside project partners MSC Cruises and Royal Caribbean Group. The project represents a public-private collaboration aiming to boost tourism development in Okinawa and the East Asia region.
