From trash to treasure, The Galveston Cruise Terminal receives Washed Ashore sculpture

Oceans cover over 70 percent of the planet providing a home for many aquatic animals, but plastic pollution in the waterways is on a rise harming the wildlife. Galveston Cruise Terminal is focused on protecting the ocean through green initiatives by partnering with Washed Ashore a traveling art exhibit aimed to educate the public about the hazards of plastic pollution in the world’s waterways.

Oregon-based non-profit Washed Ashore and Galveston Cruise Terminal have partnered on providing the City of Galveston with a crafted piece of artwork from debris collected from beaches. Priscilla the Parrot Fish was placed at the entrance of the terminal bringing education and artistry to the terminal, scheduled to be on display until March 2023.

The parrot fish, Priscilla, was chosen for display because of the unique colored highlights that reflect it. Parrotfish live in coral reefs and feed on algae and coral. As the coral passes through their system, it turns into sand, resulting in the beaches we enjoy today. To create Priscilla, debris items such as toys, bottle caps, buoys, toothbrushes, fishing baits, beer cans, lighters, and other plastic waste were used.

Ceres, along with its partner Royal Caribbean, is also the operator of Cruise Terminal 10. This brand-new terminal, referred to as Galveston Cruise Terminal (GCT) opened on November 9, 2022, under a long-term lease with the Port of Galveston.

Ceres values stewarding the environment and giving back to the community through support of food pantries, cleaning of local beaches and partnering with non-profit organizations that care for life-below the water.

“We are thrilled to have Washed Ashore’s artwork on display at the terminal,” said Rob Henkel, Vice President, Ceres Galveston. “Priscilla the Parrot Fish and other Washed Ashore pieces displayed in the City Galveston showcase the importance of recycling and caring for the earth. We believe cruise guests and the general public will enjoy interacting this beautiful and informative piece of art.”