The Port of Galveston has announced a strong first quarter driven by substantial general cargoes volume and more cruise calls.

“These cargo results combined with an additional 27 cruise ship calls in 2019, should keep our revenue growth strong throughout this year and into 2020. Our team is working together toward another successful year,” said Port Director and CEO Rodger Rees.

There was a substantial increase in general cargo, specifically in wind energy, due to two project agreements in effect until the end of 2019. Additionally the port handled year-over-year tonnage increases in March for bananas/fruit, bulk grain, and roll-on roll-off cargo. Bananas/fruit were up 2 percent, bulk grains 7.9 percent and ro-ro cargo rose 27% over March 2018.

The port also handled 42 lay vessel visits for March 2019, resulting in an increase of 68 percent year-over-year from the same period in March 2018 for an overall increase of 80 percent year-to-date. These lay vessel port calls accounted for more than $849,000 in revenue this year.

Lay vessels are those visiting the port for unscheduled reasons, whether that is for repairs or changing crew members, stores or more frequently, US Coast Guard exams.