The Port of Galveston is the oldest port in the Gulf of Mexico west of New Orleans. It is the fourth most popular US cruise port, handling operations for cruises, cargo, and commercial business development opportunities. Learn more about it and Ceres Terminals involvement.

History of the Area

In the early 19th century, Galveston’s location on the Gulf of Mexico made it a natural choice for maritime trade. The deepwater port, accessible to large vessels, allowed for the import and export of goods, contributing to the city’s rapid growth. By the mid-1800s, Galveston had become the largest city in Texas, boasting a bustling port, a diverse population, and economic prosperity.

The construction of wharves, piers, and warehouses further solidified Galveston’s status as a prominent trading center. Cotton, one of the primary commodities of the time, flowed through the port, making it a significant player in the global cotton trade. As a result, Galveston became one of the richest cities per capita, according to Visit Galveston. All major railroads served the city and 60% of the state’s cotton crop was exported through the port.

About the Port of Galveston

In recent decades, the area around the Port of Galveston has experienced a resurgence, particularly in the realm of tourism. The port has become a hub for cruise ship operations, offering travelers the chance to explore the Gulf of Mexico and beyond. The cruise industry has injected new life into the local economy and contributed to the city’s appeal as a tourist destination.

Additionally, the port has adapted to changing trade dynamics and technological advancements. Modern containerization methods and improvements in transportation infrastructure have helped the port maintain its relevance in global trade.

Ceres Terminals Involvement

Ceres returned to the Galveston port in 2021 to provide stevedoring services to cruise vessels. As Galveston’s cruise business grew, so did the cruise terminal operations. In 2022, Ceres partnered with Royal Caribbean Cruise Line to open Cruise Terminal 10. This brand-new terminal opened on November 9, 2022, under a long-term lease with the Port of Galveston.

On August 28, 2023, the Port of Galveston celebrated its 1 millionth cruise passenger of the year. To celebrate, port officials welcomed Peter De Graff and his family from Michigan, before they embarked on a five-night cruise. With continued passenger growth and a record number of cruise sailings in 2023, the port is on track to set a new record of more than 1.3 million passengers this year.

Our cargo services include:

Cruise Terminal Operations
Security Services
Baggage Handling
RoRo, Bulk and Breakbulk services

For more information visit www.ceresglobal.com