The city of George Town was recently given another boost with the completion of the new RM62.9 million Swettenham Pier.  The terminal capable of berthing international cruise vessels of up to 90,000 tons berthed its first cruise liner SuperStar Libra on 13 November 2009.

The famed Queen Mary II also made her maiden call at the terminal on 4 February 2010.  Other cruise liners that have confirmed calling at the terminal include SuperStar Virgo, Amusement world and AIDAcara.  Star Cruises have also made Swettenham Pier the home port of Star Pisces.  Star Pisces is currently operating around Penang waters, leaving Swettenham Pier at 8pm nightly and arriving back at the terminal at 8am the next morning.