Maritime Monday featuring an exciting expert panel
Join us for our signature Maritime Monday monthly lecture series featuring an exciting panel of experts. Come to hear their insights on the nature of the cruise industry and its prospects for Galveston and Houston, then stay for a networking happy hour and after-hours viewing of the museum exhibits.
- Jean-Paul Rodrigue, Ph.D., Professor, Texas A&M University-Galveston
- Brett B. Milutin, Executive Deputy Port Director, Port of Galveston
- Michael Ziesemer, General Manager, SSA Marine
Lecture details:
The Port of Galveston has emerged as the fourth-most-popular cruise port in the US, serving the Houston metropolitan area. More than 3 million cruise passengers were handled in 2024, with expectations of 3.5 million in 2025, making it an economic driver for the region. The addition of a new cruise terminal (Pier 16) in 2025 to the existing three terminals is a strong indication of the popularity of cruises for Texans. Galveston is a drive-to cruise port, underscoring that most cruisers drive to the city before boarding. Parking is generating substantial revenue for the port and private parking providers, but it also creates congestion challenges during the short ship turnaround time. The presentation discusses the nature of the cruise industry and its prospects for Galveston and Houston.
