LA invites bids to build new cruise terminal

The port authority has issued a request for proposals, inviting bids for the construction/redevelopment and operation of both, with a long-term lease of up to 66 years on offer.

“We have seen increased demand for cruises out of the LA Waterfront over the last several years, with a record 1.3 million cruise passengers in 2023,” said port executive director Gene Seroka.

“With more growth forecast, these projects will allow us to greatly expand our cruise business capacity while providing the best possible experience and convenience for cruise travellers.”

The cruise industry is a big income generator for the area, with each ship creating more than US$1 million in local economic activity. In the past two years alone, more than 200 cruise ships have called at the port and, over the next five years, this demand is only predicted to grow with larger ships carrying 4,000+ passengers becoming more common.

The proposed new Outer Harbor Cruise Terminal site comprises 13 acres (5.26 ha) of backland, two existing wharves, and 20 acres (8.09 ha) of potential off-site parking with an estimated 2,300 spaces.

The existing World Cruise Center to be redeveloped consists of 22 acres, including parking, two cruise berths, two terminal buildings and a baggage handling structure.

“Over the past 20 years, our port has invested over US$1 billion in enhancing, operating and programming LA waterfront infrastructure,” said Mike Galvin, the port’s director of Waterfront and Commercial Real Estate Development.

“These two proposed cruise terminal projects represent the next stage of that investment, and the continued transformation of the waterfront into a dynamic and multi-use visitor destination.”

Proposals are due by 3 pm on 12 November 2024.