Royal Caribbean and MSC Cruises are normally competing for passengers, but the two cruise giants are now joining forces on a project in Japan.
Construction has begun on a new cruise terminal at Naha Port in Okinawa, with plans to open the facility in March 2028. It’s an unusual partnership between two major competitors, and one that could bring changes for cruise passengers visiting this part of Asia.
Royal Caribbean and MSC Are Building a Terminal Together
The companies announced the start of construction on October 5, 2026, following a groundbreaking ceremony attended by cruise executives and Japanese government officials.
The project is being handled by a company called Cruise Port Naha G.K., formed through a partnership between CTL Maritime, representing MSC’s interests, and RCL Cruises Ltd., representing Royal Caribbean Group.
An agreement with Naha Port Authority was reached in August 2026, giving the joint venture responsibility for developing and operating the terminal.
It’s not often that two cruise companies competing for the same customers team up on a project like this. But while Royal Caribbean and MSC will continue competing for passengers, both have an interest in improving the facilities available to their ships in Japan.
What the New Cruise Terminal Will Offer
The new facility is intended to help Naha Port handle more cruise passengers while making arrivals and departures easier.
It will include passenger facilities designed to support cruise operations, with the needs of larger ships in mind. That could mean smoother boarding and disembarkation for travelers, although the companies haven’t yet shared detailed plans for the terminal.
There’s also no confirmed passenger capacity or construction budget in the official announcement. For now, the main goal is to give the port more room to accommodate cruise traffic as the industry continues developing in Okinawa.
Why the Cruise Lines Chose Okinawa
Okinawa is located southwest of mainland Japan, between the country’s main islands and Taiwan. That makes Naha a useful stop for cruises traveling between Japan and other destinations in East Asia.
The port was designated an International Cruise Ship Hub Formation Port by the Japanese government in 2019, helping pave the way for new investment in its cruise facilities.
Both companies are already familiar with the region. MSC Cruises has operated sailings from Naha aboard MSC Bellissima, while Royal Caribbean’s Spectrum of the Seas has also visited Okinawa on Asian itineraries.
Royal Caribbean Group Chairman and CEO Jason Liberty highlighted the company’s commitment to Japan, saying:
“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.”
MSC Group’s Cruises Division Executive Chairman Pierfrancesco Vago pointed to Okinawa’s location as a major reason for the investment.
“Okinawa is uniquely positioned at the crossroads of some of Asia’s most exciting cruise destinations,” he said.
For both companies, the project is an opportunity to invest in a port that already forms part of their Asian cruise operations.
What This Could Mean for Future Cruises
With the terminal scheduled to open in March 2028, passengers could eventually see improved facilities when visiting or departing from Okinawa.
The investment may also create opportunities for more cruise activity in the region, particularly as both companies continue developing their Asian operations. MSC also sees the terminal as part of its wider plans for Asia. According to Vago, the company hopes to create more opportunities for passengers to explore the region year-round with both MSC Cruises and its luxury brand, Explora Journeys.
However, neither company has confirmed new ships or itineraries specifically tied to the terminal’s opening. For now, the announcement is about building the facilities needed for future growth rather than introducing new cruises that passengers can book.
And while Royal Caribbean and MSC remain competitors at sea, they’re clearly willing to work together when it comes to developing the ports their ships visit.
Related Posts:
Today’s Top Cruise Deals
See today’s best deals from ALL travel agents
