Two Floridian ports set new records in cruise ship passengers during fiscal year (FY) 2024.
Port Everglades announced its initial annual estimate of over 4 million arrivals and departures while PortMiami reached a historic high of 8.2 million.
Port Everglades Enjoys 39% Growth
From FY2023 to FY2024, the passenger count in Port Everglades climbed 39% from over three million to 4,010,919 passengers. It set its previous record in FY2014 with 887 cruise vessels and 3,880,033 guests. This year’s record-breaking number was reached with only 648 cruise ships, demonstrating vessels’ larger sizes.
Port officials believe that Port Everglades will soon surpass its latest record as 4.4 million vacationers are expected in FY2025.
Read More: Disney’s Port Everglades Cruise Schedule
CEO and Port Director Joseph Morris credited the growth to Disney Cruise Line and the availability of more cruise options. “We expected to do well with the addition of Disney Cruise Line to our fleet and a mix of short and week-long cruises throughout the summer,” he explained.
“As the year progressed, it became evident that a near-record 4 million guests was within reach. Cruising is in high demand, and our cruise line partners are poised for greater gains with new itineraries and a variety of sailing dates,” Morris added.
PortMiami Registers 12.79% Increase
PortMiami’s FY2024 figures reflect a more modest 12.79% increase. Passenger embarkations and disembarkations rose from 7,299,294 travelers in FY2023 to 8,233,056 during the recently ended fiscal year.
Growth is expected to continue as new vessels homeport from PortMiami, operations begin at the world’s biggest cruise terminal, and shore power becomes an option.
Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava acknowledged the facility’s sustainable design. “PortMiami has not only transformed our iconic skyline and bolstered our economy, but its ongoing commitment to creating more sustainable development ensures that our port remains a forward-thinking, future-ready gateway to the world,” she said.
Is Port Canaveral Still the Busiest Cruise Port in Florida?
PortMiami was the busiest cruise port in Florida last year with Port Canaveral taking second place and Port Everglades ranking third. Port Canaveral has yet to release its 2024 data but if it maintains its annual estimate of 7.3 million passengers, PortMiami will retain its standing as the state’s busiest cruise facility.
