MSC Cruises officially opened the world’s largest cruise terminal at PortMiami on Saturday, marking a major milestone in the cruise industry.
The 492,678-square-foot MSC Miami Cruise Terminal features cutting-edge technology, including a fully biometric embarkation process that streamlines check-in, security, and boarding.
Designed by Arquitectonica and built by Fincantieri Infrastructure, the terminal can process up to 36,000 guests daily and serve three ships simultaneously.
It will also be the new homeport for MSC’s flagship, MSC World America, which begins her inaugural Caribbean season next week following a naming ceremony on April 9.
Biometrics and Digital Check-In
The terminal includes a six-level garage with 2,400+ parking spots, 18 biometric face pods, and 22 e-gates for a fully digitized guest experience.
Guests can check in online, drop bags easily, and enjoy waiting areas filled with natural light and curated public art. One area is a 10,816-square-foot digital ocean display powered by real-time NOAA data. MSC Yacht Club passengers also have access to a private lounge.
The terminal will also support Explora Journey’s vessels, with MSC Seascape and MSC Divina sailing Caribbean itineraries from the port.
PortMiami Cruise Terminals
In recent years, cruise lines have heavily invested in upgrading their homeport facilities, particularly in Miami, to enhance the embarkation experience and support next-generation ships.
Norwegian Cruise Line debuted its striking, LEED Gold-certified terminal at PortMiami in 2020, designed to resemble a nautilus shell.
Royal Caribbean’s Terminal A, also in Miami, opened in 2018 as a sleek, high-tech hub for its Icon and Oasis-class ships.
Virgin Voyages introduced its stylish Terminal V in 2022, with VIP areas and local art installations. Carnival Cruise Line has also joined the trend, overhauling Terminal F to accommodate its LNG-powered Excel-class ships.
