LONDON, UK, 5 October 2026: Naha Port Authority, Cruise Port Naha G.K., MSC Cruises and Royal Caribbean Group have marked the start of construction on a new cruise terminal at Naha Port in Okinawa, Japan.
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 facility under a Cruise Hub Formation Agreement concluded with Naha Port Authority in August 2026. Completion and the start of operations are targeted for March 2028.
New Terminal Targets March 2028 Opening
The purpose-built terminal is planned to provide upgraded passenger facilities, improve operational efficiency and support the long-term development of cruise tourism in Okinawa.
Naha offers year-round accessibility and serves as a gateway for cruise itineraries across the region. Once completed, the terminal is expected to strengthen the port’s ability to accommodate advanced cruise ships, increase passenger capacity and support growing demand for cruise holidays in Asia.
Jason Liberty, chairman and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group, said: “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. The future of cruising in Japan is about shared ambition, collaboration, and responsible innovation, and we are honoured to be a part of it.”
MSC Links Project to Regional Growth Plans
“Okinawa is uniquely positioned at the crossroads of some of Asia’s most exciting cruise destinations, and we see real potential for its future,” said Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive Chairman, MSC Group, Cruises Division. “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. We are proud to partner with Royal Caribbean Group and the Naha Port Authority in bringing this vision to life, and I thank all those whose commitment, collaboration and shared ambition have made today’s milestone possible. Together, we are investing not only in a port, but in the future growth of cruise tourism in Okinawa and across Asia.”
Groundbreaking Follows 2019 Hub Designation
The development follows Naha Port’s designation by Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism as an International Cruise Ship Hub Formation Port in 2019.
A traditional Japanese ceremony was held at the future terminal site to mark the formal start of construction. Attendees included Okinawa Governor Genta Koja, representatives from Japan’s Cabinet Office, Naha Port Authority, Cruise Port Naha G.K., MSC Cruises and Royal Caribbean Group.
The project brings public and private stakeholders together to support the longer-term development of tourism in Okinawa, with the new terminal scheduled to begin operations in March 2028.
Source: Official announcement by MSC Cruises on 05 October, 2026, London.
