Carnival Corporation has started the construction of a new cruise terminal in Sasebo, with a special ceremony attended by government, business and community representatives. As part of a strategic partnership agreement signed in March 2018 with the city of Sasebo and MLIT Japan, Carnival Corporation will operate the new terminal, expected to open in summer 2020. Under the 20-year agreement, Carnival Corporation and its cruise line brands will have preferential berthing.

It has pledged to continue working with the Japanese government and MLIT to “identify potential additional port development opportunities and future investments in the country”.

Carnival Asia CEO Michael Thamm has stated that “This new terminal will complement our strong presence in the Asia-Pacific region and furthers our commitment to help facilitate the rising demand for cruise vacations in the region, enabling even more people from around the world to discover why Japan is such an extraordinary destination, one that many of our guests have long enjoyed.”

Japan is considered as a popular destination for a number of Carnival brands. Japan’s ports have witnessed exceptional growth over the past few years, and cruising continues to increase in popularity in Asia. 

Maritime Business World