More vessels call on Port of Galveston in March

Cruise traffic at the Port of Galveston increased 37 percent in March compared with the same month in 2017. Cruise traffic at the Port of Galveston increased 37 percent in March compared with the same month in 2017. Photo: Thomas B. Shea Photo: Thomas B. Shea Image 1 of / 14 Caption Close More vessels call on Port of Galveston in March 1 / 14 Back to Gallery

The Port of Galveston reported 83 vessel calls in March, up 63 percent from 51 vessel calls in March 2017.

Total cargo increased 32.5 percent, representing the third consecutive month of double-digit growth.

RELATED: Judge sides with Galveston pilots group over licensing

The increase in vessels was largely driven by lay vessels and barges, which stop temporarily at the port for repairs, fueling or Coast Guard inspections.

Lay vessels increased 300 percent compared to March 2017, and lay barges increased 350 percent. Cargo ships increased 23 percent, and cruise ship traffic was up 37 percent.

Bulk grain exports led the increase in cargo volume with a 111 percent increase over March 2017, thanks to dredging to accommodate larger grain vessels.