Port Canaveral is preparing to build a seventh cruise terminal by converting one of its cargo berths on the north side. Management plans to expedite construction and have the new terminal ready by the summer of 2026.
The intention is to build a new facility to accommodate the largest vessels of different cruise lines. Since the expansion entails repurposing existing facilities, Port Canaveral says it can fast-track development while saving on costs.
Port Canaveral CEO John Murray revealed that the port’s existing terminals often operate at full capacity. The addition would allow the port to capitalize on opportunities presented by the booming cruise industry.
| “We have cruise partners with immediate needs to locate assets in Florida, and Port Canaveral is where they want to be,” announced Murray during the May 9 press conference. “Our ability to efficiently bring a new cruise terminal online was key to retaining and growing this important business segment that supports many jobs and delivers high value to our regional and state economy,” he concluded. |
Though the building plans and budget are still being developed, the construction of a 3,000-car multi-story parking garage and a flyover ramp leading to State Road 401 are on the agenda.
With full utilization of the terminal and parking revenue, Murray believes the expansion could bring in an additional $40 million for Port Canaveral.
Meanwhile, the development of a south-side cruise terminal and parking garage has been put on hold as it entails more planning and affects more port activities.
If all goes according to plan, management predicts the north side terminal will support cruise line demand until 2030 and beyond, even without the south side Cruise Terminal 4.
Port Canaveral: Home Port of Major Cruise Lines and the Newest Vessels
Port Canaveral is an important part of the cruise industry. In 2022, it overtook PortMiami as the busiest cruise port in the world by hosting over 4 million cruise ship passengers. It is the home port of major cruise lines like Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, MSC Cruises, Disney Cruise Line, and Carnival Cruise Line.
Several of the latest cruise ships are scheduled to sail from the Florida port, including the upcoming Utopia of the Seas Norwegian Aqua, Star of the Seas, and Disney Treasure.
