Royal Caribbean International’s new $125 million cruise terminal in Galveston, Texas, has opened its doors, welcoming the line’s Oasis-class ship, Allure of the Seas.

The cruise line held a ribbon cutting ceremony at the Port of Galveston to mark the facility’s opening and the Texas debut of its Oasis-class of ships.

Royal Caribbean executives and government and port officials were in attendance at the event, including US representative Randy Weber, federal commissioner Louis Sola, mayor Craig Brown, Royal Caribbean International president and CEO Michael Bayley, and port director Rodger Rees.

With the introduction of the Oasis class to the port, it’s expected that the new terminal will welcome up to 630,000 passengers each year.

According to a statement, the terminal will generate 100 per cent of the energy it needs through on-site solar panels.

Royal Caribbean taking cruises to a ‘new level’

Bayley said: “We are thrilled to take family vacations to a whole new level in Texas.

“Our new, 161,334-square-foot terminal opens up a world of vacation possibilities for families in the southwest.

“Now our unmatched Oasis-class ships, known as the best family vacations in the industry, can set sail from Galveston.

“Allure of the Seas is just the beginning, and we thank the Port of Galveston, Ceres and all the teams involved for making this bold vision a reality.”

Rees added: “This new cruise terminal is a game-changer for the port and the region.

“This $125 million investment, in collaboration with Royal Caribbean, the port and Ceres, is expected to bring 800 new jobs, $1.4 billion in local business services revenue, $5.6 million in state and local taxes, and incredible business development opportunities.

“Of course, Allure of the Seas means more cruising adventures for our Texas cruise guests.”

Allure of the Seas will set sail from its new homeport for the first time on 13 November.