Port Canaveral FL charts course for ongoing cruise dominance with new mega-ship and cruise terminal expansion

   December 30, 2023 ,   Cruise Industry

This weekend, from Port Canaveral/Orlando (Florida USA) will depart 10 ships, carrying tens of thousands of tourists, contributing to the impressive figure of 6.8 million guests who took cruises during FY2023/financial year.

Notably, the title of the world's busiest cruise port has seen a dynamic shift between Florida's PortMiami and Port Canaveral in recent years. The latter has been at the forefront, but Miami has made noteworthy strides in claiming the coveted position.

Looking ahead, Port Canaveral is poised for further expansion, with plans to welcome Royal Caribbean's latest mega-ship, the Star of the Seas, and the development of a new cruise terminal. The chosen site for this terminal is the present location of Blue Points Marina. To accommodate the anticipated growth, the port has already added 1000 parking spots dedicated to cruise passengers.

As observed by cruise industry expert Stewart Chiron, the sustained growth of the port may hinge on critical factors such as the availability of adequate parking for both ships and guests. The success and potential plateauing of the port's growth trajectory will undoubtedly be influenced by how well infrastructure and logistical considerations are addressed.