Royal Caribbean, MSC Break Ground on New Cruise Terminal in Japan

Royal Caribbean Group and MSC Cruises are moving ahead with a major cruise infrastructure investment in Japan, breaking ground on a new terminal at Naha Port in Okinawa.

The Naha Port Authority, Cruise Port Naha G.K., Royal Caribbean Group and MSC Cruises marked the start of construction during a traditional Japanese groundbreaking ceremony at the future terminal site.

The new facility is targeted to open in March 2028 and is designed to accommodate some of the world’s most advanced cruise ships while supporting growing demand for cruise vacations across Asia.

Cruise Port Naha G.K., a joint venture between CTL Maritime and RCL Cruises Ltd., representing the respective interests of MSC Cruises and Royal Caribbean Group, will develop and operate the terminal.

The project follows a Cruise Hub Formation Agreement signed with the Naha Port Authority in August 2026.

Investing in Okinawa

The purpose-built terminal will feature upgraded passenger facilities designed to improve the guest experience and operational efficiency while supporting the long-term expansion of cruise tourism in Okinawa.

Naha’s location also positions the port as a gateway for itineraries throughout East Asia, with year-round accessibility offering cruise lines greater flexibility when developing regional programs.

Royal Caribbean Group Chairman and CEO Jason Liberty described Japan as a key market for the cruise company and emphasized the importance of investing in infrastructure alongside growing its deployment in the region.

“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,” said Liberty in a press release.

“The future of cruising in Japan is about shared ambition, collaboration, and responsible innovation, and we are honoured to be a part of it.”

Growing cruise tourism in Asia

MSC Group also sees the terminal as part of a broader strategy to expand its cruise presence in Asia.

“Okinawa is uniquely positioned at the crossroads of some of Asia’s most exciting cruise destinations, and we see real potential for its future,” satted Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive Chairman, MSC Group, Cruises Division, in the release.

“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.”

“As we continue to develop our itineraries and invest in infrastructure, we are making cruising more accessible for both international and Asian travellers while strengthening connections across the region.”

The development builds on Naha Port’s designation by Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism as an International Cruise Ship Hub Formation Port in 2019.

The public-private project is intended to strengthen Naha’s ability to handle increasing cruise passenger volumes and support Okinawa’s tourism economy as cruise lines expand their presence across the region.

The groundbreaking ceremony brought together Okinawa Governor Genta Koja and representatives from the Cabinet Office of Japan, Naha Port Authority, Cruise Port Naha G.K., MSC Cruises and Royal Caribbean Group.

Construction is now underway, with the terminal scheduled to begin operations in March 2028.