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Posted on: November 28, 2023

Galveston Wharves 2024 Budget Forecasts Record Growth

The Galveston Wharves 2024 budget forecasts record operating revenues, cruise sailings and cruise passenger counts. Adopted by the Galveston Wharves Board of Trustees on Nov. 21, the budget includes projected operating revenues of $72.5 million, $35.5 mil...

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Posted on: November 21, 2023

Port Thankful for a Bountiful 2023

By Rodger Rees, Galveston Wharves Port Director and CEO

Tis the season for giving thanks. It’s the time of year when we reflect on the past year and gather with friends, family and co-workers to celebrate. When I look back on this year at the Por...

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Posted on: November 13, 2023

Port One Step Closer to Fourth Cruise Terminal

GALVESTON, TX (Nov. 8, 2023) – The Galveston Wharves Board of Trustees voted on Nov. 7 to approve a $5.3 million engineering and architecture services contract for a fourth cruise terminal at the Port of Galveston, America’s fourth most popular cruise por...

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Posted on: October 18, 2023

Port of Galveston Celebrating 198 Years of Commerce

By Rodger Rees, Galveston Wharves Port Director and CEO

Spanning almost two centuries, the Port of Galveston’s fascinating history could fill a book with tales of pirates, naval battles, riches, and resilience. As we mark the port’s off...

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Posted on: October 9, 2023

Galveston Wharves Awarded $1 Million TCEQ Grant For Shore Power Pilot

GALVESTON, TX (Oct. 9, 2023) – The Galveston Wharves has been awarded a $1 million grant for a shore power pilot project in partnership with Texas A&M University at Galveston to reduce emissions from cargo shipping operations. 

Funde...

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Posted on: October 9, 2023

Galveston Wharves on Track with Master Plan

By Rodger Rees, Galveston Wharves Port Director and CEO

To plan where you’re going, it’s good to take a moment to look at where you’ve been. The Galveston Wharves staff is doing just that by reviewing the progress we&rsquo...

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Posted on: September 28, 2023

Port Awarded $42.3 M for Critical Cargo, Transportation Projects

GALVESTON, TX (Sept. 29, 2023) – The Galveston Wharves has been awarded $42.3 million in state funding for a major cargo infrastructure project, as well as restoration of a section the port’s interior roadway and an enclosed pedestrian...

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Posted on: September 25, 2023

Galveston Celebrating 22 Years as Cruise Home Port

By Rodger Rees, Galveston Wharves port director and CEO

Who could have imagined 22 years ago when the Carnival Celebration became the first ship to homeport in Galveston that we would grow to be the fourth most popular U.S. cruise port with more than 1 mil...

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Posted on: September 11, 2023

Maintaining Deep-Water Ship Channel a Non-Stop Job

By Rodger Rees, Galveston Wharves port director and CEO

The Port of Galveston is fortunate to be located on a deep-water ship channel with a federally authorized depth of 46 feet. Unfortunately, maintaining depths anywhere near that requires routine dredgi...

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Posted on: August 30, 2023

Port Awarded Federal Grant for Safe Streets Action Plan

By Rodger Rees, Galveston Wharves Port Director and CEO

I’m pleased to announce that the U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration has awarded the Galveston Wharves a $340,000 grant to create a comprehensive road safety act...

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Posted on: August 29, 2023

Port Of Galveston Celebrates Year’s 1-Millionth Cruise Passenger

GALVESTON, TX (Aug. 28, 2023) – The Port of Galveston, fourth most popular cruise home port in North America, celebrated its 1 millionth cruise passenger of the year on Aug. 28, putting it on track to reach a new record of at least 1.3 million p...

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Posted on: August 24, 2023

Port Director Rees Honored as a Most Admired CEO by Houston Business Journal

GALVESTON, Texas, Aug. 24, 2023 – Galveston Wharves Port Director and CEO Rodger Rees has been recognized as a 2023 Most Admired CEO by the Houston Business Journal (HBJ). Rees was among the honorees celebrated at a luncheon of hundreds of corpo...

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Posted on: August 23, 2023

Galveston Wharves, MSC, Norwegian Continue Negotiations for 4th Cruise Terminal

GALVESTON, Texas, Aug. 23, 2023 – The Galveston Wharves continues negotiations with MSC and Norwegian cruise lines to develop a fourth cruise terminal at the fourth most popular cruise home port in the U.S.

Rodger Rees, Galveston Wharves port dir...

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Posted on: July 12, 2023

Port Recertified for Green Marine Environmental Program

By Rodger Rees, Galveston Wharves Port Director and CEO

The Port of Galveston has been recertified as a Green Marine port, confirming our long-term commitment to continuous improvement in environmental performance. We are one of only two Texas ports certif...

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Posted on: June 27, 2023

Port Police Ensure Safety, Security in Thriving Maritime Hub

By Rodger Rees, Galveston Wharves Port Director & CEO

The Port of Galveston Police Department is crucial in safeguarding public safety and security within the expansive 840-acre port. Led by Chief Kenneth Brown, a seasoned law enforcement professional ...

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Posted on: June 12, 2023

Galveston Wharves, Maritime Partners Preparing for Hurricane Season

By Rodger Rees, Galveston Wharves Port Director and CEO

When it comes to hurricane season, the Galveston Wharves, its tenants and other maritime partners take a proactive approach. As we have for almost a decade, we host an annual hurricane preparedness me...

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Posted on: May 30, 2023

Galveston Harbor Rising in Top 50 U.S. Cargo Rankings

Galveston, TX (May 30, 2023) – The Galveston Harbor is rising in the rankings as a top 50 U.S. cargo waterway. A total of 12 million tons of cargo moved through the deep-water harbor in 2021, placing it 43rd among the busiest U.S. ports and wate...

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Posted on: May 30, 2023

The What and Why of the Port’s Proposed Bond Package

By Rodger Rees, Galveston Wharves Port Director and CEO

As the Galveston Wharves Board of Trustees and staff work to finalize details of a revenue bond package to fund $120 million in capital improvements, I would like to give readers an update on where we...

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Posted on: May 18, 2023

Galveston Cruise Terminal Getting $53 Million Makeover for Carnival Jubilee Arrival

Galveston, TX (May 19, 2023) – The Galveston Wharves is investing $53 million in a major expansion at Cruise Terminal 25 to accommodate Carnival Cruise Line’s Carnival Jubilee, a new cruise ship arriving in December.

“We&r...

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Posted on: May 18, 2023

Uber Service Now Available at Port of Galveston Cruise Terminals

Galveston, TX (May 18, 2023) – Uber is now available to provide passenger drop-off and pick-up at the Port of Galveston’s three cruise terminals. The Galveston Wharves and Uber recently signed an agreement to formalize the ride-hailing...

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Posted on: May 9, 2023

Texas Port Mission Plan Details $9.67B in Critical Projects

By Rodger Rees, Galveston Wharves Port Director and CEO

Supply chain interruptions in recent years have emphasized how essential ports are to state, national and global economies. Texas relies heavily on a strong port system to maintain its leading positio...

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Posted on: April 24, 2023

State Funding for Port Projects a Sea Change

By Rodger Rees, Galveston Wharves Port Director and CEO 

The Texas Legislature could make history this session by allocating $600 million in state funds for capital projects and ship channel improvements for Texas ports. Historically, this amount ...

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Posted on: March 30, 2023

Port Off to a Strong Start in 2023

By Rodger Rees, Galveston Wharves Port Director and CEO

From cruise and cargo to capital projects, the Port of Galveston is off to a strong start this year. When comparing February 2023 numbers to the same time last year, performance is up for cargo and cr...

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Posted on: March 6, 2023

Port Weighing Funding Options For Major Capital Projects

By Rodger Rees, Galveston Wharves Port Director and CEO

The Galveston Wharves Board and staff are weighing our best options for funding major capital projects slated for the next few years. We’re considering issuing $100 million in bonds to help fund much-...

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Posted on: February 19, 2023

Port Engineers Play Lead Role in Strategic Master Plan Projects

By Rodger Rees, Galveston Wharves Port Director and CEO

The Galveston Wharves has built a strong engineering team to carry out millions of dollars in expansion projects and critical repairs detailed in the port’s 20-Year Strategic Master Plan. Na...

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Posted on: February 6, 2023

3 Port Projects to Improve Public Access, Safety

By Rodger Rees, Galveston Wharves Port Director and CEO

Port staff is working on three projects to enhance public access and safety, particularly in the port’s commercial areas. Unlike some working ports largely restricted from public access, the...

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Posted on: February 1, 2023

Galveston Wharves Port Director Honored with Prestigious Award

Galveston, TX (Feb. 1, 2023) – Rodger Rees, Galveston Wharves Port Director and CEO, has been honored as the Galvestonian of the Year by the Galveston Regional Chamber of Commerce for positively contributing to the betterment of the region&r...

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Posted on: January 20, 2023

Port Planning Major Capital, Maintenance Projects in ‘23

By Rodger Rees, Galveston Wharves Port Director and CEO

The cruise industry’s robust growth at the Port of Galveston is helping us invest in infrastructure to fully optimize this regional economic engine. The 2023 budget adopted by the Galveston ...

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Posted on: January 9, 2023

Port Has Big Plans for Improvements, Growth in 2023

By Rodger Rees, Galveston Wharves Port Director and CEO

I’m strongly optimistic about 2023. Thanks to the robust recovery of our cruise business, the Galveston Wharves is poised to make major advances with its capital projects and waterfront infr...

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Posted on: January 2, 2023

Port Celebrating a Year of Growth, Accomplishments

By Rodger Rees, Galveston Wharves Port Director & CEO

As we begin a new year, it’s worthwhile to reflect on the highlights of 2022. For the port, it was a year of major accomplishments and growth. I’m incredibly proud of my dedicate...

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Posted on: December 27, 2022

Port Of Galveston Celebrates Year’s 1-Millionth Passenger

Galveston, TX (Dec. 27, 2022) – The Port of Galveston, fourth most popular cruise homeport in North America, celebrated its 1-millionth cruise passenger of the year on Dec. 22. Port officials welcomed Kathy Wade and her family at the port&rs...

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Posted on: December 21, 2022

Galveston Wharves, MSC Cruises Discuss Possibility of 4th Cruise Terminal

Galveston, TX (Dec. 21, 2022) – The Galveston Wharves, a major U.S. cruise homeport, and MSC Cruises, a leading international cruise company, are negotiating the development of a fourth cruise terminal at the Port of Galveston. The entities sign...

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Posted on: December 19, 2022

Ruby Princess Departs on Inaugural Voyage from Galveston

Galveston, TX, Dec. 18, 2022 ­- Ruby Princess departed Galveston Sunday, Dec. 18, on an 11-day sailing to Mexico and the Caribbean, marking Princess Cruises' first cruise from Galveston in six years.

It was the first of 16 sailings from Ga...

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Posted on: December 13, 2022

Port Master Plan Delivering Jobs, Growth

By Rodger Rees, Galveston Wharves Port Director and CEO

KEY TAKEAWAYS

  • 4th cruise terminal in discussion
  • Port exploring potential Pelican Island developments
  • Cruise business generates $557 million in local business revenues in 2022
  • City annually gets $1.5 milli...
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Posted on: November 21, 2022

Giving Thanks for Port People, Partnerships, Projects

By Rodger Rees, Port Director and CEO

Tis the season for giving thanks. It’s the time of year when we reflect on the past year and gather with friends, family and co-workers to celebrate. When I look back on this year at the Port of Galveston, I ...

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Posted on: November 14, 2022

New Cruise Terminal A Growth Milestone for Port, Region

By Rodger Rees, Galveston Wharves Port Director and CEO

What a momentous month in the port’s history. We opened a world-class cruise terminal and welcomed two state-of-the-art cruise ships, Royal Caribbean’s Allure of the Seas and Norwe...

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Posted on: November 7, 2022

Port Aligns on Shore Power Project with Shell, Cruise Lines, CenterPoint, Texas A&M

Galveston, TX (Nov. 7, 2022) – The Galveston Wharves, together with Carnival Corporation, CenterPoint Energy, Royal Caribbean Group, Shell Trading (US) Company (“Shell”) and Texas A&M University at Galveston, will work toward potential solutions to de...

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Posted on: October 30, 2022

Port Open House an Opportunity for Community Conversations

By Rodger Rees, Galveston Wharves Port Director and CEO

I regularly make presentations to Galveston civic and neighborhood groups about the progress the port is making on implementing its 20-Year Strategic Master Plan. Last Thursday, Oct. 26, we reached a m...

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Posted on: October 19, 2022

Port Advancing Environmental Initiatives with Support of Board, Staff, Partners

By Rodger Rees, Galveston Wharves port director and CEO

As a Green Marine-certified port since 2021, the Galveston Wharves and its partners are making great progress in realizing long-term changes to protect the environment. Through Green Marine, a volunta...

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Posted on: October 7, 2022

Galveston Wharves to Host Open House on Oct. 26

GALVESTON, TX (Oct. 6, 2022) – The Galveston Wharves is hosting an open house on Oct. 26 to share information about traffic planning, port improvements, long-range plans and more. The public meeting will be held 4-6 p.m. at Cruise Terminal 28 (f...

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Posted on: October 7, 2022

Galveston Cruise Industry on Track to Set New Records

By Rodger Rees, Port Director and CEO

As the cruise industry continues its strong recovery from the peak of the pandemic, the Port of Galveston is expected to set new records in 2023. This is important for the port and the community because our cruise sect...

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Posted on: September 21, 2022

Preparing for Cruise Growth with Traffic Management Tools

By Rodger Rees, Port Director and CEO

The port’s cruise business is growing, which is great news for the port, its business partners, workers and the community. Adding a third cruise terminal and more ships generates hundreds of jobs, local spend...

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Posted on: September 12, 2022

Galveston Wharves, Ceres Terminals Galveston Partner for Beach Cleanup

GALVESTON, TX (Sept. 12, 2022) – Galveston beaches are a little cleaner thanks to the volunteer efforts of Galveston Wharves and Ceres Terminals Galveston employees and family members. More than 30 volunteers picked up litter and debris at Stewa...

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Posted on: September 2, 2022

Port of Galveston, Waze Partner to Improve Traffic Conditions

GALVESTON, TX (Sept. 2, 2022) – The Port of Galveston is partnering with popular navigation app Waze to decrease traffic congestion and make better-informed planning decisions with real-time traffic and roadway data.

The free, two-way data share ...

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Posted on: August 31, 2022

A Labor Day Salute to All Who Keep Maritime Commerce Moving

By Rodger Rees, Galveston Wharves Port Director and CEO

As we do every Labor Day, the Galveston Wharves observes this federal holiday by recognizing the thousands of men and women who work on the Galveston waterfront to keep our economy moving. We...

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Posted on: August 24, 2022

Keeping Our Waterfront Safe and Secure

By Rodger Rees, Galveston Wharves Port Director and CEO

Our Port of Galveston Police Department does a remarkable job of handling a complex operation. Headed by Chief Kenneth Brown, our staff of 32 is responsible for public safety and security at a busy, 8...

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Posted on: August 9, 2022

Preparing for Cruise Growth with Infrastructure Projects

By Rodger Rees, Galveston Wharves Port Director and CEO

You’ve got to spend money to make money. This old saying certainly applies to the Port of Galveston’s cruise business. We’re investing an estimated $33 million in cruise-...

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Posted on: July 26, 2022

Port Moving Forward with Major Cargo Expansion Projects

By Rodger Rees, Galveston Wharves port director and CEO

Now is the time for the Galveston Wharves to leverage its hard-earned cash reserves, built up over the last four years, to fund major capital projects delayed by the pandemic. Guided by our 20-Year St...

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Posted on: July 14, 2022

Galveston Ship Channel Extension to Reap $1.6 Million Annual Benefit

Galveston, TX (Thursday, July 14, 2022) – A recently funded $16.3 million Galveston Harbor and Channel extension project will generate $1.6 million a year in estimated economic benefits, according to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Galv...

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Posted on: July 12, 2022

Reinvesting Port Revenues to Grow Galveston’s Economy

The Port of Galveston is the oldest port west of the Mississippi, and frankly, folks, it shows in the state of some of our infrastructure. Crumbling piers, deteriorated roads and collapsing storm sewer lines have resulted from decades of neglect. ...

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Posted on: June 28, 2022

Galveston Wharves, Tenants Preparing for Active Hurricane Season

By Rodger Rees, Galveston Wharves Port Director and CEO

Meteorologists are forecasting above-normal activity during the 2022 Atlantic hurricane season with 14-21 named storms, 6-10 hurricanes and 3-6 major storms. Fortunately, Galveston Wharves is ready wi...

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Posted on: June 23, 2022

Galveston Wharves Explores Cruise, Cargo Opportunities with Panama

Galveston, TX (June 23, 2022) – Rodger Rees, Galveston Wharves port director and CEO, recently traveled to Panama with a delegation of Texas port leaders to explore growth opportunities.

The U.S.-Panama Business Council organized the trade missio...

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Posted on: June 21, 2022

Galveston Wharves Wins Sustainable Landscaping Grant from Clean Galveston

Galveston, TX (June 21, 2022) – The Galveston Wharves has been awarded a $5,000 grant from Clean Galveston to sustainably landscape the port’s new Royal Caribbean cruise terminal with native plantings. The grant will fund plantings in ei...

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Posted on: May 31, 2022

Port Pursues Bigger Piece of Federal Grants Pie

By Rodger Rees, Galveston Wharves port director and CEO

As a self-sustaining city entity with no property tax revenues, the Galveston Wharves relies on two main funding streams – business revenues and grants – to pay for operations, mai...

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Posted on: May 17, 2022

TxDOT I-45 Tiki Island Bridge Bulletin

Issued Friday, May 13, 2022

 

The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) has developed a solution that eliminates the need for weight restrictions on Interstate 45 northbound lanes at the Tiki Island bridge. Below is the most current update fro...

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Posted on: May 13, 2022

A Salute to U.S. Mariners on National Maritime Day

By Rodger Rees

Galveston Wharves Port Director and CEO

 

If you take a cruise or the Bolivar Ferry, thank a mariner. If you shop, fuel your car or buy groceries, you can thank a mariner. As we prepare to observe National Maritime Day on May 22, let&...

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Posted on: May 6, 2022

TxDOT I-45 Tiki Island Bridge Bulletin

The Galveston Wharves and the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) are making progress in developing a solution to minimize port-related transportation impacts related to the Tiki Island bridge weight restrictions on Interstate 45 northbound. Below ...

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Posted on: May 5, 2022

TxDOT I-45 Tiki Island Bridge Bulletin

 

The Galveston Wharves and the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) continue working to identify solutions to minimize port-related transportation impacts related to the Tiki Island bridge weight restrictions on Interstate 45 northbound. Be...

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Posted on: May 2, 2022

Galveston Cruise Resurgence Boosting Regional Economy

By Rodger Rees

Galveston Wharves Port Director and CEO

If rising cruise passenger numbers are any indication, it’s going to be a busy summer at the Port of Galveston. Since cruising resumed in July 2021, passenger numbers and ship occupancy counts...

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Posted on: April 14, 2022

Federal Funds will Help Galveston Port Reach Full Potential

By Rodger Rees

Galveston Wharves Port Director and CEO

 For the first time in decades, the Port of Galveston will be able to reach its full economic and commercial potential as a deep-water port. The recently passed Infrastructure Investment and Jo...

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Posted on: April 6, 2022

Port Reports Progress on Green Marine Programs

By Rodger Rees

Galveston Wharves Port Director and CEO

 

Since becoming certified in the Green Marine program in June 2021, the Galveston Wharves and its partners are making progress in realizing long-term changes to protect the environment. Cleaner...

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Posted on: March 16, 2022

New Royal Caribbean Cruise Terminal Taking Shape

By Rodger Rees, 

Galveston Wharves Port Director and CEO

Our waterfront skyline is changing as construction of the Port of Galveston’s third cruise terminal progresses at Pier 10. The dramatic 68-foot-tall building front will be faced wit...

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Posted on: March 3, 2022

LNG Fueling Environmental Sustainability, Economic Growth

By Rodger Rees

Galveston Wharves Port Director and CEO

 

As liquified natural gas (LNG) continues to gain traction globally as a commercial marine fuel, the Port of Galveston and the community will reap environmental and economic benefits. Fueling m...

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Posted on: February 16, 2022

Port engineers play lead role in strategic master plan projects

By Rodger Rees

Galveston Wharves Port Director, CEO

 

The Galveston Wharves has built a strong engineering team to carry out millions of dollars in expansion projects and critical repairs detailed in the port’s 20-Year Strategic Master Pla...

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Posted on: February 4, 2022

Port Firming Up Vision for Pelican Island

By Rodger Rees

Galveston Wharves Port Director and CEO

Pelican Island is the single largest untapped source of revenue and jobs for the Galveston Wharves and our regional economy. Of the Port of Galveston’s total 840 acres, more than 300 acres wit...

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Posted on: January 25, 2022

Full Steam Ahead on Galveston Wharves Strategic Master Plan

Thanks to the vision and focus of our Galveston Wharves Board of Trustees, we are making steady progress with our 20-Year Strategic Master Plan. I’d like to give you an update on the major maintenance and capital improvement projects included in...

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Posted on: January 7, 2022

Galveston Wharves, partners update COVID response plans

As long as COVID-19 remains a global health threat, the Galveston Wharves and its partners will work diligently to update preparedness plans to maintain safe, sustainable cruising. Earlier this week, port staff convened a meeting of our multi-agency Infec...

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Posted on: December 27, 2021

CELEBRATING A PHENOMENAL 2021 FOR GALVESTON WHARVES

Tis the season to count our blessings, reflect on the year and look forward to the new year. Before writing today’s column, I made a list of 2021 port accomplishments and the many things for which I’m grateful. I would like to share wi...

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Posted on: December 9, 2021

PORT FORECASTS ANOTHER GROWTH YEAR FOR CARGO

 Based on what we know today, 2022 should be a banner year for the Port of Galveston’s cruise and cargo businesses. This means strong jobs and revenue growth for the port and the region. Major factors contributing to this forecast include complet...

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Posted on: November 27, 2021

MARITIME CAREERS ARE INTERESTING, WIDE-RANGING

One of the best parts of my job is talking to local students and teachers about the Port of Galveston and the diverse array of maritime industry career opportunities it generates. Jobs in the maritime industry are wide ranging, interesting and often pay w...

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Posted on: November 12, 2021

GALVESTON WHARVES PURSUES GRANTS TO FUND IMPROVEMENTS

As the saying goes, “Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity.” I believe the Galveston Wharves is well positioned to be a strong contender for millions of dollars in recently announced federal infrastructure funding, an...

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Posted on: November 8, 2021

RCI'S ADVENTURE OF THE SEAS HOMEPORTS IN GALVESTON, BEGINS SEASONAL SAILINGS

Galveston, TX (Nov. 8, 2021) – Royal Caribbean International’s Adventure of the Seas, the first Voyager-class ship to homeport in Texas, began its inaugural seasonal sailing itinerary from the Port of Galveston on Nov. 8 with a 5-day W...

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Posted on: November 1, 2021

FULFILLING PORT MISSION WITH CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS

The Galveston Wharves is fulfilling its mission to maximize port assets for economic and jobs growth with major construction projects outlined in the port’s 20-Year Strategic Master Plan.

 

As a self-sustaining city entity that receives no property...

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Posted on: October 26, 2021

GALVESTON WHARVES EARNS 3 NATIONAL COMMUNICATIONS AWARDS

Galveston, TX (Oct. 26, 2021) -The Galveston Wharves communications staff was recently honored with three American Association of Port Authorities (AAPA) Lighthouse awards for their  work to support the resumption of cruise sailings and to spotli...

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Posted on: October 6, 2021

GALVESTON WHARVES EARNS INDUSTRY AWARD FOR ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITMENT

The Galveston Wharves has garnered national recognition for its commitment to environmental improvement through the Green Marine program. 
 
The American Association of Port Authorities (AAPA) recently recognized the port with an Award of ...
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Posted on: October 4, 2021

PORT POLICE ACHIEVE TEXAS GOLD STANDARD

The Port of Galveston Police Department, under the leadership of Chief Kenneth Brown, has earned state accreditation by implementing a comprehensive set of 170 professional best practices and quality standards. 

The Texas Police Chiefs Association...

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Posted on: September 20, 2021

PELICAN ISLAND A GROWTH OPPORTUNITY FOR THE REGION

Did you know that, of the Port of Galveston’s total 840 acres, 357 acres are on Pelican Island? While the port’s Galveston Island acreage is almost fully developed, more than 300 acres with waterfront access are available for greenfield development on Pel...
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Posted on: September 7, 2021

LABOR DAY SALUTE TO THOSE WHO KEEP MARITIME COMMERCE MOVING

On this Labor Day, let’s take a moment to recognize the thousands of men and women who work on the Galveston waterfront to keep our economy moving. We would not be the fourth most popular cruise port in North America or a major Texas cargo port without ou...

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Posted on: August 17, 2021

S&P GLOBAL UPGRADES GALVESTON WHARVES FINANCIAL OUTLOOK, CREDIT RATING

Galveston, TX (Aug. 17, 2021) – Standard & Poor’s (S&P) Global Ratings has upgraded the Galveston Wharves financial outlook and affirmed an issuer credit rating of A- in a report issued Aug.13.

 

According to the report, the revise...

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Posted on: August 16, 2021

GALVESTON WHARVES, ROYAL CARIBBEAN INTERNATIONAL BREAK GROUND ON NEW $125 MILLION CRUISE TERMINAL

Federal, state, and local officials join Galveston Wharves Port Director and CEO Rodger Rees, Galveston Wharves Chairman Albert Shannon, Royal Caribbean International V.P. of Destination Development Joshua Carroll, and other industry lea...

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Posted on: August 5, 2021

2021 BUDGET GROWTH FORECAST MEANS MORE LOCAL JOBS

With cruise sailings resuming and cargo tonnage up, the Galveston Wharves is forecasting increased revenues and jobs growth for 2021 compared to 2020.

This means more household income for thousands of families in our region who rely on port-related jobs. I...

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Posted on: July 22, 2021

PORT GOING GREEN WITH MAJOR ENVIRONMENTAL PROGRAMS

From improving air quality to reducing waste, Galveston Wharves is identifying impactful ways to make long-term changes to improve the environment. Guided by Green Marine, a voluntary environmental program for North America’s maritime industry, the port s...

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Posted on: July 15, 2021

GALVESTON WHARVES INVESTS $2M IN CARGO INFRASTRUCTURE

CAPTION: When completed, the Galveston Wharves 70-acre West Port Cargo Complex will include an additional 20 waterfront acres, 2,000 linear feet of docking space, and a rail spur to the waterfront, as shown in this rendering.

GALVESTON, TX - July 15, 2021&...

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Posted on: July 8, 2021

SUMMER 2021 A MOMENTOUS PERIOD FOR GALVESTON WHARVES

Summer 2021 will go down in the Port of Galveston’s 196-year history as a momentous period of major milestones. Despite pandemic-related business disruptions and an estimated loss of more than $44 million in cruise revenues, the port moved forwa...

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Posted on: June 25, 2021

BLOWN AWAY! GALVESTON WHARVES REACHES NEW WIND CARGO MILESTONE

Galveston, TX  (June 25, 2021) – Galveston Wharves set a new wind turbine cargo record in May, importing more than 500 pieces, including tower sections, blades and nacelles.

 

As wind energy imports have steadily increased over th...

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Posted on: June 25, 2021

GALVESTON WHARVES READY FOR ACTIVE HURRICANE SEASON

Meteorologists are forecasting above-normal activity during the 2021 Atlantic hurricane season with 13-20 named storms, 6-10 hurricanes and 3-5 major storms. Fortunately, Galveston Wharves is ready with a comprehensive preparedness and response plan built...

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Posted on: June 8, 2021

GALVESTON WHARVES EARNS GREEN MARINE CERTIFICATION

Galveston, TX (June 8, 2021) – The Galveston Wharves has earned Green Marine certification, making it only the second port in Texas to become accredited in this voluntary environmental program for the North American marine indu...

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Posted on: June 1, 2021

WE'RE 1 STEP CLOSER TO CRUISING

It could really happen! Thanks to the hard work of many, the Port of Galveston could be the first cruise port in the United States to host cruise passengers since March 2020 when sailings were suspended due to COVID.

 

On May 28, the U.S. Centers f...

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Posted on: May 15, 2021

NEW ROYAL CARIBBEAN INTERNATIONAL CRUISE TERMINAL A 'GAME CHANGER' FOR GALVESTON

As if restarting cruising in 2021 isn’t enough great news, Royal Caribbean International recently announced details about its new cruise terminal at Pier 10 and its positive impacts on the local economy. RCI began construction of the $110 millio...

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Posted on: May 14, 2021

GALVESTON LEADING NATION IN RESUMING SAFE, SUSTAINABLE SAILINGS

Galveston, TX (May 14, 2021) – The Port of Galveston, the fourth most popular cruise homeport in North America, is scheduled to be the first U.S. port to welcome cruise passengers with a Carnival Cruise Line (CCL) sailing planned for July 3. The...

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Posted on: April 16, 2021

PORT OF GALVESTON WILL BE READY TO WELCOME CRUISE SHIPS, PASSENGERS

No one knows exactly when cruise ships will sail again from the Port of Galveston, but I can assure you that we’ll be ready. 

As the fourth most popular cruise port in the U.S. and the only cruise homeport in Texas, the Port of Galveston is an imp...

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Posted on: April 3, 2021

OPEN PLEA TO THE CDC: ALLOW PHASED CRUISING NOW

As CEO and port director of the fourth most popular cruise port in North America and the only cruise port in Texas, I am joining Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), major cruise lines and many others in calling fo...
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Posted on: March 30, 2021

GALVESTON WHARVES PORT DIRECTOR REES APPOINTED TO TxDOT PORT ADVISORY COMMITTEE

Galveston, TX (MARCH 30, 2021) – Galveston Wharves Port Director and CEO Rodger Rees has been appointed to the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) Port Authority Advisory Committee (PAAC).

 

Established under the Texas Transportation Code, t...

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Posted on: March 8, 2021

3RD CRUISE TERMINAL A GAMECHANGER FOR GALVESTON ECONOMY

It’s official. Royal Caribbean International (RCI) announced this week that it will begin building a $100 million cruise terminal at the Port of Galveston’s Pier 10 in April. In the same press release, RCI announced that it will begin ...

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Posted on: February 22, 2021

PORT LEGISLATIVE AGENDA CENTERED ON REVENUES, INFRASTRUCTURE IMPROVEMENTS

As a self-sustaining city entity, the Galveston Wharves is always looking for new funding and partnership opportunities to help us create economic growth, jobs and other benefits for the Galveston region. During this Texas legislative session we’ll be ask...

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Posted on: February 10, 2021

GALVESTON WHARVES 2020 CARGO TOTALS EXCEED 2019

Galveston, TX (FEB. 10, 2021) –  Galveston Wharves cargo business totaled 4.3 million tons in 2020, exceeding 2019 totals by 300,000 tons, with general cargo, grain and fresh fruit leading the gains. Cargo activity generated more than 4...

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Posted on: February 6, 2021

GALVESTON WHARVES CLOSES 2020 WITH POSITIVE CASH FLOW

The Galveston Wharves ended 2020 with a positive cash flow despite the pandemic and the related suspension of our cruise business. How, you may ask, did we stay in the black while losing a major revenue source for most of the year?

Put simply, we had fewer...

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Posted on: January 23, 2021

GALVESTON WHARVES DELIVERING ON GOALS IN 2021 & BEYOND

 

Just as we set personal goals and resolutions in a new year, it’s a good practice for businesses too. The Galveston Wharves staff follows a business strategy that defines who we are, what we value, what are our long-term goals, and wha...

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Posted on: January 8, 2021

GALVESTON WHARVES: WHAT WE ANTICIPATE IN 2021

If 2020 taught us anything, it’s the importance of focusing on the things we can control and being adaptable. The Galveston Wharves board and staff did just that. As a result, our business has weathered the pandemic well. 

 

Esti...

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Posted on: December 8, 2020

GALVESTON WHARVES CRUISE BUSINESS GENERATED $1.6 BILLION ECONOMIC IMPACT STATEWIDE IN 2019

Galveston, TX (Dec. 8, 2020) – Galveston Wharves cruise activity in 2019 had a $1.6 billion economic impact in Texas and showed growth in all areas, including jobs and spending, compared to 2018.

Rodger Rees, Galveston Wharves port director and C...

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Posted on: December 3, 2020

GALVESTON CRUISE BUSINESS WILL LIFT REGIONAL, STATE ECONOMIES

Newly released cruise industry economic impact numbers for 2019 remind us that the eventual resumption of cruising will play a critical role in helping drive our region’s economic recovery.

 

As it does each year, the Cruise Lines Interna...

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Posted on: November 20, 2020

GALVESTON WHARVES BOARD ADOPTS CONSERVATIVE 2021 BUDGET

The Galveston Wharves Board of Directors has adopted a conservative 2021 budget based on past performance and realistic forecasts for the coming months. It’s important to remember that we’re a self-supporting, city-owned business that ...

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Posted on: November 6, 2020

GALVESTON WHARVES GOING GREEN MARINE

Let’s talk trash. Galveston Wharves is implementing a number of waste reduction initiatives as part of our voluntary Green Marine environmental certification. Implementing recycling programs in our facilities, using sustainable paper products an...

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Posted on: October 23, 2020

CRUISE RALLY MESSAGE: CRUISE EQUALS LOCAL JOBS

The cruise rally organized by the Galveston International Longshoremen’s Association on Wednesday delivered a clear message: cruising equals jobs for Galveston. 

More than 120 longshoremen, cruise workers and community leaders turned out...

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Posted on: August 31, 2020

SALUTE TO THOSE WHO KEEP GALVESTON'S MARITIME COMMERCE MOVING

Labor Day, a national holiday celebrated the first Monday in September, means different things to different people – the end of summer, start of the school year, fall football and cooler weather.

For me, it’s an opportunity to recognize...

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Posted on: October 9, 2020

WHAT'S ON THAT CARGO SHIP AND WHERE'S IT GOING?

Do you ever wonder what’s on the cargo ships docked at the Galveston Wharves? Our import/export cargo business generates a steady flow of essential goods into the U.S. and American-made cargo to countries around the world. 

 We move cargo...

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Posted on: September 25, 2020

5 BIG THINGS GALVESTON WHARVES IS FOCUSED ON

We’re making lots of progress at the Galveston Wharves, despite challenges related to COVID-19. I want to share with you five big things that we’re focused on to strengthen our business now and for the future.

 

Much of the progress I’ll touch on t...

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Posted on: September 10, 2020

PREPARING TO CRUISE AGAIN, SAFELY AND SUSTAINABLY

Putting cruise sailings on pause during the pandemic has had far-reaching impacts for vacationers, workers and major cruise ports like the Galveston Wharves. In this time of uncertainty, I believe one thing is certain – the cruise industry will ...

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Posted on: August 28, 2020

PORT RESUMES FULL OPERATIONS AFTER HURRICANE LAURA, JOINS HURRICANE RELIEF EFFORTS FOR LOUISIANA

Galveston, TX (August 28, 2020) – The Port of Galveston remains open for business, providing maritime-related jobs and economic benefits for the region following Hurricane Laura.

“We have an exceptional emergency response team that work...

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Posted on: July 31, 2020

GALVESTON WHARVES READY FOR ACTIVE HURRICANE SEASON

Hurricane Hanna was a good reminder that we’re entering the peak of what’s forecast to be a busy hurricane season. Fortunately,  Galveston Wharves is ready with a comprehensive preparedness and response plan built on years of ...

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Posted on: July 17, 2020

12 MONTHS OF MOBILITY PROGRESS AT THE PORT

It’s been 12 months since the Galveston Wharves hired its first-ever Mobility director to oversee planning, business development, operations and strategic marketing for parking and ground transportation.

Julio De Leon, an experienced mobility pro...

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Posted on: July 10, 2020

GALVESTON WHARVES AWARDED $3.75 MILLION GRANT

Galveston, TX – July 10, 2020 – Galveston Wharves has been awarded a $3.75 million state grant for a new internal roadway to improve port access and traffic flow between 14th and 20th streets. The Texas Department of Transportation (Tx...

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Posted on: July 2, 2020

SALUTE TO PORT CONSTRUCTION & MAINTENANCE TEAM

About two dozen highly skilled people in the Galveston Wharves Construction & Maintenance (C&M) group take care of just about everything that needs fixing on our waterfront. They also are doing construction projects to advance the port’s...

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Posted on: June 19, 2020

CRUISE RESUMPTION WILL HELP JUMPSTART OUR ECONOMY

It’s been three months since cruise lines voluntarily suspended sailings from Galveston and other homeports throughout the world immediately following the World Health Organization’s pandemic declaration.

Top questions on many people&am...

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Posted on: June 15, 2020

GALVESTON WHARVES SETS NEW REVENUE RECORDS IN 2019

Galveston, TX – June 15, 2020 – After setting all-time revenue records in 2018, the Galveston Wharves broke those records in Fiscal Year 2019 with a 19-percent increase in revenues and a 52-percent increase in net income.

The port&r...

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Posted on: June 11, 2020

PORT'S RECORD-BREAKING 2019 FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE AN INDICATOR OF FUTURE SUCCESS

They say that records are made to be broken. After setting all-time revenue records in 2018, the Galveston Wharves broke those records in Fiscal Year 2019 with a 19-percent increase in revenues and a 52-percent increase in net income.

At its May meeting, t...

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Posted on: June 5, 2020

GRANTS WOULD HELP FAST-TRACK WEST PORT CARGO COMPLEX

As the Galveston Wharves implements its 20-year Strategic Master Plan, we are currently seeking $45 million to help fund the $117 million expansion of our West Port Cargo Complex. Continuing to expand and diversify our cargo business is a top priority in ...

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Posted on: May 12, 2020

GALVESTON WHARVES, CORPS INK AGREEMENT ON CHANNEL DEEPENING PROJECT

Galveston, TX (May 12, 2020) – The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) will complete engineering and design resulting in a set of plans and specification ready for solicitation to deepen the last 2,571 feet the Galveston Ship Channel to 46 feet...

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Posted on: April 24, 2020

AMIDST GLOBAL PANDEMIC FRESH DEL MONTE PRODUCE SUPPORTS REGIONAL FOOD BANKS WITH FRESH FRUIT

GALVESTON TX (April 24, 2020) – Fresh Del Monte Produce Inc., a top fresh fruit distributor with import operations at the Port of Galveston, has donated 919,000 pounds of fresh fruit to the Houston Food Bank in April to help those in need during...

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Posted on: April 24, 2020

BRIGHT SPOTS ON WATERFRONT IN MIDST OF PANDEMIC

It’s easy to be overwhelmed by these challenging times as health care, government and business leaders struggle to get a handle on this pandemic and navigate a return to normal – or a new normal.

What inspires me each day is the dedicat...

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Posted on: April 9, 2020

PORT WORKING WITH AUTHORITIES, PARTNERS TO KEEP WATERFRONT SAFE, WORKING

As we navigate the uncharted waters of this global pandemic, I want to express my gratitude to Galveston Wharves board, staff, business partners and representatives from local, state and federal entities who have joined forces to keep everyone safe and th...

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Posted on: March 27, 2020

PORT REMAINS FOCUSED ON PREPAREDNESS

The Galveston Wharves remains vigilant in taking precautions to protect workers from the coronavirus and is encouraging our port partners to do the same.

Port staff continuously monitors the coronavirus situation with its multi-agency infectious disease re...

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Posted on: March 25, 2020

GALVESTON WHARVES REMAINS OPEN FOR BUSINESS, ON TRACK FOR RECORD SETTING QUARTER

Galveston, TX (March 24, 2020) – The Port of Galveston remains open for business, providing maritime-related jobs and economic benefits for the region following the Stay at Home executive order issued by Galveston County Judge Mark Henry on Marc...

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Posted on: March 17, 2020

GALVESTON WHARVES CARGO, LAY-SHIP BUSINESSES STEAM AHEAD

Galveston, TX (March 17, 2020) – Galveston Wharves is projecting record-breaking wind energy cargo and lay-ship revenues for the first quarter of 2020.

Port Director Rodger Rees said, “We’re on track to have a record-breaking ...

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Posted on: March 11, 2020

PORT MONITORING COVID-19, PREPARING FOR POTENTIAL IMPACTS

Public health experts anticipate that the coronavirus (COVID-19) could have far-reaching impacts for Americans before this epidemic runs its course. It’s too early to predict how many people will be infected, how our lives and businesses will be...

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Posted on: March 4, 2020

GALVESTON WHARVES TAKES PROACTIVE APPROACH IN HOSTING MULTI-AGENCY INFECTIOUS DISEASE TABLETOP

The Galveston Wharves hosted a multi-agency tabletop exercise on March 2, 2020 to review and coordinate planning, responses and communicatons among the local, state and federal entities that would respond if the coronavirus impacted the Galveston maritime...

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Posted on: March 1, 2020

A GROWING PORT MEANS MORE JOBS FOR THE REGION

While the Port of Galveston directly employs almost 100, it generates thousands of jobs through its cargo, cruise, shipping and construction activities. As port business continues to grow, so will these jobs. Wage-earners further boost the local economy b...

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Posted on: February 20, 2020

GALVESTON WHARVES TAKES PROACTIVE APPROACH IN COORDINATING INFECTIOUS DISEASE TABLETOP

GALVESTON, TX, Feb. 20, 2020-On January 21, 2020, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced the first case of 2019 Novel Coronavirus in the United States. No cases of suspected or confirmed Novel Coronavirus have been reported in...

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Posted on: February 14, 2020

TEAMWORK, TEXAS-STYLE HOSPITALITY MAKE CRUISE TERMINAL OPERATIONS A SUCCESS

Teamwork, Texas-style hospitality make cruise terminal operations a success

When my family and I took our first cruise out of Galveston last year, I was impressed by everyone staffing the cruise terminal. From the luggage handlers and greeters to the secur...

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Posted on: February 4, 2020

GALVESTON WHARVES HONORED WITH 2 AWARDS FROM GALVESTON REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

GALVESTON, TX, Feb. 4, 2020 – Galveston Wharves was honored with two major awards for its long-time economic contributions at the Galveston Regional Chamber of Commerce 175th annual meeting on Jan. 31.

The port received the Large Business of the ...

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Posted on: February 2, 2020

PORT UNDERTAKING MAJOR CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS

The Port of Galveston will be investing millions of dollars in construction projects this year as it begins to implement its 20-Year Strategic Master Plan. Some of the projects are long-deferred maintenance, some pave the way for major business growth, an...

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Posted on: January 17, 2020

ROLLING UP OUR SLEEVES TO IMPLEMENT PORT PLANS IN 2020

If 2019 was a year of planning and milestones at the Port of Galveston, 2020 will be the year to begin implementation. The Galveston Wharves Board set goals for a number of major projects and programs in 2019; now comes the challenging work of bringing th...

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Posted on: January 4, 2020

REFLECTING ON 2019: A YEAR OF MAJOR MILESTONES

2019 was a momentous year for Galveston Wharves. Major milestones reached last year set a strong foundation for success in 2020 and beyond.

None of it would be possible without the support of our board, staff, City Council and scores of business partners, ...

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Posted on: December 20, 2019

THIRD CRUISE TERMINAL A GAME CHANGER FOR GALVESTON

By now you’ve probably heard about the $110 million investment that Royal Caribbean will make in Galveston to build a new cruise terminal. This project will stimulate major economic benefits for the port, the city and the community.

The annual im...

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Posted on: December 13, 2019

GALVESTON WHARVES SIGNS LONG TERM AGREEMENT WITH ROYAL CARIBBEAN CRUISES LTD. TO DEVELOP NEW STATE-

Galveston, TX, Dec. 12, 2019 – The Port of Galveston, the fourth busiest cruise port in North America, formally announced today that it has signed a long-term contract with Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. (RCL) for a new $110 million cruise termina...

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Posted on: December 4, 2019

PORT OF GALVESTON CELEBRATES RECORD 1 MILLIONTH PASSENGER

The Port of Galveston, fourth busiest cruise port in North America, welcomed its 1 millionth cruise passenger of the year on December 4, 2019, setting a new record for the port.

“Galveston’s growing popularity as a cruise homeport is gr...

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Posted on: November 24, 2019

STRATEGIC MASTER PLAN WILL GUIDE PORT GROWTH

Strategic Master Plan will guide port growth

 After 1 ½ years of research, analysis and public input, the Port of Galveston’s detailed 20-Year Strategic Master Plan is almost finished. 

 The Galveston Wharves ...

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Posted on: November 22, 2019

MAGIC OF DISNEY RETURNS TO GALVESTON WITH THE ARRIVAL OF DISNEY WONDER

Galveston, TX (Nov. 21, 2019) – Disney Cruise Line’s Disney Wonder returns to the Port of Galveston, fourth busiest cruise port in North America, for winter season sailings  Nov.  22, 2019, through January 2020.&n...

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Posted on: November 10, 2019

PORT HAS PLAN TO FIX CRUMBLING INFRASTRUCTURE

If a picture is worth 1,000 words, then seeing the Port of Galveston’s aging infrastructure firsthand speaks volumes. Last Thursday Galveston City Council and Wharves Board of Trustees members took time out of their busy schedules to tour the po...

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Posted on: November 6, 2019

GALVESTON WHARVES STRATEGIC MASTER PLAN FINAL DRAFT SLIDE DECK AVAILABLE

Galveston, TX (November 6, 2019) - After more than a year of research and analysis, the final draft of the Galveston Wharves 20-Year Strategic Master Plan has been completed and is being reviewed by members of the Wharves Board of Trustees.

This plan will ...

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Posted on: November 4, 2019

GALVESTON WHARVES BOARD APPROVES TRAFFIC STUDY

Galveston, TX (November 4, 2019) – The Port of Trustees of the Galveston Wharves approved an agreement between TranSystems Corporation and the port to perform a traffic study in the amount of $179,906.00. A portion of this cost, approximately $2...

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Posted on: October 27, 2019

BREAKBULK BIG BUSINESS AT GALVESTON WHARVES

What do bananas, BMWs and bulldozers have in common? All are breakbulk cargoes that move through the Port of Galveston.

 In 2018, breakbulk made up 27 percent of the 4.1 million tons of cargo that passed through the port and generated $7.7 million...

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Posted on: October 17, 2019

GALVESTON WHARVES DIRECTOR PITCHING GALVESTON AT CARIBBEAN REGIONAL CRUISE CONFERENCE

Galveston, TX (October 17, 2019) – Galveston Wharves Port Director Rodger Rees will be touting the benefits of Galveston as a cruise homeport to cruise executives from around the world at the Florida Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA) annual co...

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Posted on: October 15, 2019

CARNIVAL CRUISE LINE TO ADD FOURTH SHIP IN GALVESTON

GALVESTON, TX  (October 15, 2019) – Everything is bigger in Texas – including Carnival Cruise Line – which announced today that it will have four ships homeported in Galveston, year-round, beginning in 2021.

Building ...

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Posted on: October 14, 2019

PORT OF GALVESTON JOINS GREEN MARINE CERTIFICATION PROGRAM

Galveston, Texas, Oct. 14, 2019 – The Port of Galveston is going green with a number of environmental initiatives, including membership in Green Marine, the leading voluntary environmental program for North America’s maritime industry.

“Joining Green Marin...

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Posted on: October 11, 2019

KEEPING OUR WATERFRONT SAFE AND SECURE

Our Galveston Wharves Police and Security Department does a remarkable job of handling a complex operation. Headed by Security Director Kenneth Campbell, our staff of 26 is responsible for public safety and security for a busy, 840-acre port facility with...

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Posted on: September 30, 2019

PORT GOING GREEN WITH ENVIRONMENTAL INITIATIVES

Galveston Wharves is going green. We’re kicking off a number of employee-driven initiatives to reduce our environmental impact and support local community groups committed to environmental sustainability, including the Galveston Bay Foundation.

S...

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Posted on: September 19, 2019

GALVESTON WHARVES TO BEGIN $1.5 MILLION ANNUAL CHANNEL DREDGE

GALVESTON, TX- Sept. 19, 2019 – Galveston Wharves is launching a weeks-long, $1.5-million dredging project to maintain depths along its waterfront. The port’s dredging contractor will remove an estimated 135,000 cubic yards of silt, en...

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Posted on: September 12, 2019

THE SCOOP ON ANNUAL PORT CHANNEL DREDGING WORK

Let’s talk dirt. Dredging is a not-so-glamorous, but critically important aspect of our Galveston Wharves business.

Every year we dredge along our waterfront to maintain depths of 40-45 feet needed to accommodate the approximately 1,000 ships that call on ...

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Posted on: August 30, 2019

SALUTE TO UNION WORKERS ON THE GALVESTON WATERFRONT

Port of Galveston’s growth and success wouldn’t be possible without the dedicated, hard-working men and women of the International Longshoremen’s Association. In 2018 these union workers moved luggage for almost 1 million cru...

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Posted on: August 15, 2019

WIND ENERGY GENERATING JOBS, REVENUE ON WATERFRONT

Galveston Wharves is helping fuel the state’s booming wind energy industry by moving wind turbine sections through the port. In turn, this clean-energy industry is generating port revenue and third-party jobs for stevedores, ship line handlers, ...

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Posted on: August 7, 2019

PORT OF GALVESTON REPORTS STRONG SECOND QUARTER

Galveston Wharves announced business gains for the second quarter to round out a strong first half driven by substantial general cargoes volume. General cargoes, primarily wind turbine project cargo, increased by 104 percent over the second quarter in 201...

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Posted on: July 31, 2019

FUNDING PORT IMPROVEMENTS STRENGTHENS LOCAL ECONOMY

If you’ve been following the Port of Galveston in the news, you know that we reached a record $43.5 million in gross operating revenues in 2018. That gave us net revenues of $8 million after expenses.

There’s no magic to how we did it. ...

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Posted on: July 7, 2019

PORT HAS A PLAN TO IMPROVE TRAFFIC

As the Port of Galveston plans for growth, improving traffic flow is a big piece of our strategy. I’d like to share a number of things we’re working on to reduce traffic on Harborside Drive and make it safer for pedestrians to cross be...

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Posted on: July 19, 2019

CRUISE PARKING, MOBILITY PRIORITIES AS PORT BUSINESS GROWS

Improving and enhancing cruise parking and mobility in and around the Galveston Wharves are top priorities. That importance is reflected in our Strategic Master Plan and in the creation of a new staff position.

This month we welcome Julio De Leon as the po...

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Posted on: July 15, 2019

PORT OF GALVESTON WELCOMES JULIO DE LEON AS MOBILITY DIRECTOR FOR PARKING DIVISION

GALVESTON, TX (July 15, 2019)  The Port of Galveston welcomed its newest staff member today.  Mr. Julio De Leon has been appointed as the Port’s first ever Mobility Director.

In this new position, De Leon will oversee...

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Posted on: July 11, 2019

RUNNING PORT LIKE A BUSINESS THE KEY TO SUCCESS

With 30 years in banking and five years on the Galveston’s Wharves Board of Trustees, I’ve been impressed with the Port of Galveston staff’s progress to strengthen the port’s financial and operational performance.Certainly the city of Galveston’s greatest...

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Posted on: July 9, 2019

PORT OF GALVESTON REPORTS RECORD REVENUES IN 2018; INDEPENDENT AUDITOR CONFIRMS CLEAN AUDIT

The Port of Galveston’s 2018 Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR), released in June and confirmed by an independent audit, shows record operating revenues for fiscal year 2018.

The external auditor reviewed the port’s financial ...

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Posted on: June 24, 2019

PORT OF GALVESTON AN ECONOMIC ENGINE & ISLAND TREASURE

The Port of Galveston is many things to different people. For the men and women who work on the waterfront, it’s a source of income. For millions of cruise passengers, it’s the gateway to vacation adventures.

Many are drawn to the waterfront for its histor...

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Posted on: June 3, 2019

PORT OF GALVESTON CHARTS NEW COURSE

The Port of Galveston is continuing to build on its momentum from a banner year in 2018. Excellent early financial results show that the Port continues its upward trajectory in terms of revenue, passengers, and local economic impact. With this continued s...

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Posted on: May 7, 2019

ENCHANTMENT OF THE SEAS SETS SAIL ON FIRST CRUISE FROM GALVESTON

Royal Caribbean International’s Enchantment of the Seas began its home port seasonal sailing itinerary from the Port of Galveston with a 7 day Western Caribbean cruise on Monday, May 6, 2019.

“We are excited to welcome yet another Royal Caribbean ship, Enc...

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Posted on: April 22, 2019

PORT OF GALVESTON REPORTS STRONG FIRST QUARTER

The Galveston Wharves announced results for the month of March to round out a strong first quarter driven by substantial general cargoes volume. General cargoes, specifically wind energy increased by 3,691 percent year-over-year when compared to March 201...

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Posted on: March 11, 2019

VISION OF THE SEAS AGAIN SAILING FROM PORT OF GALVESTON

Royal Caribbean International’s Vision of the Seas once again began its home port seasonal sailing itinerary from the Port of Galveston with a 5 day Western Caribbean cruise on Monday.

 “We are delighted to have Vision of the S...

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Posted on: March 4, 2019

PORT OF GALVESTON WELCOMES NEW CHIEF OF POLICE

The Port of Galveston welcomed its newest staff member on Monday, March 4.  Mr. Kenneth Brown has been appointed as the Port’s new Chief of Police.

In his new position, Mr. Brown will under the direction of the Director of Public Safety ...

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Posted on: February 12, 2019

PORT ENDS YEAR WITH CRUISE MILESTONES

The Port of Galveston announced that it achieved a new milestone in 2018, with 1,966,176 passenger movements, surpassing previous passenger volumes and setting a record as the busiest year since the port began its cruise business on September 30, 2000. In...

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Posted on: February 1, 2019

YEAR IN REVIEW: 2018

Year in Review: 2018 

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Posted on: January 17, 2019

POG ENTERS INTO 10 YEAR AGREEMENT WITH DISNEY CRUISE LINE

The Port of Galveston announced today that it has finalized a new agreement with Disney Cruise Line extending preferential berthing agreement rights at the Port for an additional 10 years with an option to renew for two additional five year periods effect...

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Posted on: December 13, 2018

PORT OF GALVESTON CELEBRATES MAJOR MILESTONE

(Galveston, TX) Dec. 10, 2018  The Port of Galveston is excited to announce that on Sunday, December 9, 2018, it welcomed its 10 millionth passenger to embark from the port’s cruise terminal. The Port began cruise operations ...

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Posted on: December 5, 2018

PORT OF GALVESTON AND ROYAL CARIBBEAN SIGN MOU FOR NEW CRUISE TERMINAL

Galveston, TX, Dec. 5, 2018 -The Board of Trustees of the Galveston Wharves formally announced on Wednesday, December 5 that it has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. setting out the general terms for a new ...

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Posted on: November 21, 2018

PORT OF GALVESTON WELCOMES NEW DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC SAFETY

Galveston, TX- (Nov. 28, 2018) – The Port of Galveston welcomed its newest staff member yesterday at the Board of Trustees of the Galveston Wharves board meeting. Mr. Kenneth Campbell has been appointed as the Port’s Director of Public S...

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Posted on: November 26, 2018

CONTINUED STRONG CARGO AND CRUISE PASSENGER VOLUME GROWTH Port on Course for Record Year

Galveston, TX-November 26, 2018 – The Galveston Wharves announced results for the month of September 2018 to round out a strong third quarter driven by substantial cargo volume, and an increase in cruise passenger capacity. Containerized cargo i...

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Posted on: September 24, 2018

CARNIVAL VISTA SETS SAIL FROM GALVESTON

Galveston, TX (Sept. 23, 2018) –The Port of Galveston is pleased to announce that Carnival Cruise Lines newest, largest, and most innovative ship, Carnival Vista, sailed on its first voyage from its new homeport today. 

The arrival of the 133,500-...

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Posted on: September 10, 2018

PORT PROMOTES MILUTIN TO DIRECTOR OF PORT OPERATIONS

The Port of Galveston recently announced that Mr. Brett Milutin has been promoted from Harbormaster to Director of Port Operations. Milutin will report directly to Rodger Rees, CEO/Port Director. 

"Having been employed with the Port for over ...

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Posted on: August 21, 2018

PORT OF GALVESTON BOND RATING UPGRADED by S&P GLOBAL

Standard and Poor’s Global (S&P Global)  recently announced an upgrade to the Port of Galveston’s bond rating from a “BBB+” to an “A-“. The new investment grade rating has a stable outlook.The upgrade reflects the application of S&P Globa...

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Posted on: July 26, 2018

SHIP CALLS and CARGO VOLUMES CONTINUE to GROW

The Port of Galveston announced on Thursday strong results for the month of June 2018. Total vessel calls for the month increased approximately 18 percent year-over-year compared to June 2017 and improved 28 percent year-to-date over last year. Total carg...

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Posted on: June 21, 2018

PORT OF GALVESTON ASSISTS IN GUATAMALAN VOLCANO RELIEF EFFORTS

PORT OF GALVESTON ASSISTS IN GUATAMALAN VOLCANO RELIEF EFFORTS

(Galveston,
TX) June 19, 2018
 The Port of Galveston assisted incoordinating the shipment of relief supplies for families displaced by the
volcanic eruption in Guatemala....

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Posted on: June 8, 2018

PORT OF GALVESTON WINS THREE NATIONAL COMMUNICATIONS AWARDS

(Galveston, TX) June 8, 2018 The Port of Galveston is pleased to announce that it will receive three top honors in the annual American Association of Port Authorities Communications Awards Competition. 

“We are honored to be t...

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Posted on: May 9, 2018

FIFTY CLUB HONORS PORT POLICE OFFICER

Galveston, TX (May 8, 2018) –The Board of Trustees of the Galveston Wharves (Port of Galveston) is proud to recognize Officer Clay Garrison as the recipient of the Fifty Club “Officer of the Year” award for outstanding achievement while serving 2017.

The ...

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Posted on: April 25, 2018

SHIP CALLS AND CARGO VOLUME ON THE RISE AT PORT OF GALVESTON

GALVESTON, TX -April 18, 2018 - The Port of Galveston announced on Wednesday strong results for the month of March 2018. Total vessel calls for the month increased approximately 63 percent compared to March 2017 and improved to 33 percent year-to-date ove...

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Posted on: April 24, 2018

PORT RECEIVES HIGHEST REWARD FOR FINANCIAL REPORTING

L-R: Rodger Rees, Port Director/CEO, Mark Murchison, Finance Director, E.L. "Ted" O'Rourke, Chairman 

Galveston, TX (April 24, 2018) –The Board of Trustees of the Galveston Wharves (Port of Galveston) was recently awarded the Certificate...

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Posted on: April 5, 2018

PORT OF GALVESTON CELEBRATES 3RD ANNUAL PORTS DAY

GALVESTON, TX (April 5, 2018) -The Port of Galveston is proud to mark April 5th as Western Hemisphere Ports Day. Led by the American Association of Port Authorities, the Port of Galveston joins hundreds of ports in North, Central and South America, and th...

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Posted on: January 12, 2018

PORT OF GALVESTON ENDS YEAR WITH CRUISE MILESTONE

GALVESTON, TX (January 11, 2018) The Port of Galveston announced that it achieved a new milestone in December 2017, embarking 113,488 passengers, surpassing previous passenger volumes and setting a record as the busiest month since the port began its crui...

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Posted on: December 20, 2017

PORT OF GALVESTON WELCOMES NEW DIRECTOR OF ADMINISTRATION

GALVESTON, Texas (December 18, 2017) - The Port of Galveston welcomed its newest staff member today. Laura C. Camcioglu is the Port's new Director of Administration. 

Ms. Camcioglu will lead the
Port's Administration Department. She is responsibl...

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Posted on: November 7, 2017

VISION OF THE SEAS SETS SAIL ON FIRST CRUISE FROM GALVESTON

GALVESTON, Texas (November 7, 2017)- Royal Caribbean International’s Vision of the Seas began its home port seasonal sailing itinerary from the Port of Galveston with a 5 day Western Caribbean cruise on Monday, November 6, 2017.  

&nb...

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Posted on: December 13, 2017

PORT OF GALVESTON APPOINTS NEW PORT DIRECTOR

GALVESTON, Texas (Dec.13, 2017) – The Board of Trustees of the Galveston Wharves is pleased to announce that Rodger E. Rees has been appointed as Port Director for the Port of Galveston. Mr. Rees will assume his new role at the Port of Galveston effective...

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Posted on: September 15, 2017

PORT OF GALVESTON AWARDED $1 MILLION FEDERAL SECURITY GRANT

Galveston, Texas (Sept. 15, 2017) - The Port
of Galveston is pleased to announce that it has received a $1 million grantfrom the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).  The grant was awarded through the 
2017 Port Securit...

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Posted on: September 14, 2017

PORT OF GALVESTON OPEN FOR BUSINESS AS OF SEPTEMBER 1

Galveston, Texas (Sept. 7, 2017) – Despite some confusion in media reports, the Port of Galveston is open for business. The port has been fully operational since reopening Sept. 1 when the United States Coast Guard (USCG) lifted all traffic restrictions t...

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Posted on: August 28, 2017

PORT OF GALVESTON NAMES DIRECTOR OF ENGINEERING, MAINTENANCE, AND ENVIRONMENTAL AFFAIRS

GALVESTON, Texas (August 1, 2017) – The Port of Galveston welcomed its newest staff member today. Humberto A. Leal is the Port’s new Director of Engineering, Maintenance, and Environmental Affairs. 

 

Mr. Leal will lead the Port's
Enginee...

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Posted on: April 3, 2017

PORT OF CALL: WELCOME MS AMADEA

GALVESTON, TX (April 3, 2017) - On Monday,
April 3, 2017 the MS Amadea of Phoenix Reisen Cruise Lines will call at thePort of Galveston. The four star plus rated ship, owned and operated by Phoenix
Reisen Cruise Line arrives with app...

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Posted on: December 22, 2005

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