Port of Los Angeles Selects Pacific Cruise Terminals to Develop and Operate Major Cruise Facilities
The Port of Los Angeles has announced the selection of Pacific Cruise Terminals, LLC (PCT) as the developer and operator of two major cruise facilities that will shape the future of cruise operations in Southern California. PCT, a joint venture between Carrix, Inc. and JLC Infrastructure, will lead the development of a new, state-of-the-art Outer Harbor cruise terminal while also redeveloping and operating the existing World Cruise Center located along the Port’s Main Channel.
This strategic decision represents a significant milestone in the Port’s long-term vision to strengthen its position as the leading cruise gateway on the U.S. West Coast, while simultaneously delivering economic, environmental, and community benefits to the surrounding region.
Strengthening Los Angeles as a Premier Cruise Gateway
Port of Los Angeles Executive Director Gene Seroka emphasized the importance of the project in supporting the continued growth of the cruise industry and enhancing the Port’s competitive position.
“This new Outer Harbor cruise terminal and World Cruise Center redevelopment will allow us to capture more of the rapidly growing cruise business, while also establishing Los Angeles as the primary West Coast gateway for cruise operations,” said Seroka. “This project will also be a huge win for our Port communities, who will greatly benefit from the economic activity generated by such significant public and private investment in our LA Waterfront.”
Cruise activity already plays a vital role in the regional economy. Each cruise ship call at the Port of Los Angeles generates approximately $1.3 million in local economic activity, supporting jobs across hospitality, transportation, retail, and tourism-related services. In 2025, the Port welcomed 241 cruise ship calls and a record 1.6 million passengers, underscoring the growing demand for cruise travel through Los Angeles.
A State-of-the-Art Outer Harbor Cruise Terminal
The proposed Outer Harbor cruise terminal will be designed to accommodate the next generation of cruise vessels, including larger ships equipped with advanced technologies and enhanced environmental performance. PCT’s development plans focus on creating a modern, efficient terminal capable of meeting the evolving needs of cruise operators and passengers alike.
Beyond its operational role, the new terminal is envisioned as a significant community asset. Plans include open public spaces, recreational areas, and improved access to the LA Waterfront, ensuring the development integrates seamlessly with the surrounding neighborhood and provides value to residents and visitors year-round.
Redevelopment of the World Cruise Center
In addition to the Outer Harbor project, PCT will oversee the redevelopment and ongoing operation of the World Cruise Center, a key cruise facility that has served Los Angeles for decades. The redevelopment will modernize the terminal infrastructure, enhance passenger experience, and improve operational efficiency to support increasing cruise volumes.
Together, the two projects represent a comprehensive approach to future-proofing cruise operations at the Port while supporting sustainable growth and long-term economic returns.
Carrix Brings Global Maritime Expertise
Carrix, Inc., one of the world’s largest independent marine and intermodal terminal operators, brings extensive experience to the partnership. The company is also North America’s leading cruise terminal operator, with a proven track record of delivering complex maritime infrastructure projects.
Carrix has a long-standing presence in Southern California, with deep expertise across both containerized cargo and cruise terminal operations.
“Carrix is proud to have been selected by the Port of Los Angeles as the lead partner for the development of the Outer Harbor cruise terminal and the redevelopment of the World Cruise Center,” said Uffe Ostergaard, CEO of Carrix. “We believe our deep experience with large maritime infrastructure projects such as this will contribute to a significant economic return for both the Port and the greater Harbor community.”
Meeting Growing Demand for Cruise Travel
According to Stefano Borzone, president of Carrix’s cruise division, the timing of the project aligns closely with broader trends in the global cruise industry.
“In response to the growing demand for cruise vacations, cruise ship operators have committed to an unprecedented new build program, introducing larger and more technologically advanced ships to the market,” Borzone said. “This exceptional new cruise center will be instrumental in positioning Los Angeles as a premier homeport and one of the leading cruise gateways on the West Coast.”
The enhanced facilities will allow Los Angeles to attract more homeported vessels, extend cruise seasons, and increase passenger throughput—benefits that ripple throughout the regional economy.
JLC Infrastructure’s Strategic Investment
JLC Infrastructure, which manages approximately $2.3 billion in assets, adds strong financial and infrastructure investment expertise to the joint venture. The firm has active investments across the transportation, energy, and communications sectors, including major projects such as the LAX Airport Cargo Modernization Project and New Terminal One at John F. Kennedy International Airport.
“We are excited about this opportunity to partner with Carrix and the Port of Los Angeles,” said Marlon Smith, managing director at JLC Infrastructure. “This project supports our strategy to invest in critical infrastructure that contributes to the growth of the surrounding communities.”
Smith noted that Los Angeles’ strategic location makes it a natural hub for expanding Pacific Coast cruise operations, with tourism growth expected to generate lasting benefits for the Port, local businesses, and residents.
A Long-Term Vision for Economic and Community Impact
Collectively, the Outer Harbor cruise terminal and World Cruise Center redevelopment represent a forward-looking investment in infrastructure, sustainability, and community engagement. By combining global maritime expertise, institutional investment strength, and a shared commitment to community value, the project is set to play a defining role in the next chapter of cruise operations at the Port of Los Angeles.
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