by Sarah Kuta
Last updated: 2:15 PM ET, Mon October 5, 2026
A new cruise terminal at Naha Port in Okinawa, Japan, is officially under construction, with Royal Caribbean Group and MSC Cruises partnering to develop the facility as the region looks to accommodate growing demand for cruise travel.
Naha Port Authority, Cruise Port Naha G.K., Royal Caribbean Group and MSC Cruises marked the start of construction with a groundbreaking ceremony at the future terminal site. The new facility is expected to be completed and begin operations in March 2028.
Cruise Port Naha G.K., a joint venture between CTL Maritime and RCL Cruises Ltd., represents the respective interests of MSC Cruises and Royal Caribbean Group. Under a Cruise Hub Formation Agreement reached with the Naha Port Authority in August 2026, Cruise Port Naha G.K. will develop and operate the new terminal.
The project follows Naha Port’s designation in 2019 by Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism as an International Cruise Ship Hub Formation Port. The designation was part of Japan’s efforts to develop cruise hubs through public-private partnerships.
The purpose-built facility will include modern passenger amenities designed to improve the guest experience and operational efficiency while increasing Naha’s capacity to handle cruise ships.
Naha is one of Japan’s key cruise ports, offering year-round accessibility and a location that makes it a gateway to destinations throughout East Asia. The new terminal is expected to strengthen the port’s ability to accommodate larger and newer cruise ships as cruise demand in Asia continues to grow.
“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,” says Jason Liberty, chairman and chief executive officer of Royal Caribbean Group. “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.”
Liberty said the project reflects a broader approach to cruise development in Japan focused on collaboration and infrastructure investment.
“The future of cruising in Japan is about shared ambition, collaboration, and responsible innovation, and we are honoured to be a part of it,” he says.
MSC Group also sees the project as an opportunity to expand its cruise presence in Asia. The company's portfolio includes MSC Cruises and Explora Journeys, its luxury ocean cruise brand.
“Okinawa is uniquely positioned at the crossroads of some of Asia’s most exciting cruise destinations, and we see real potential for its future,” says Pierfrancesco Vago, executive chairman of MSC Group’s Cruises Division.
Vago says the new terminal will support the company's plans to offer more year-round cruise options in Asia for both international and Asian travelers.
“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,” he says.
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