Port Canaveral (Orlando, Florida) has announced a strategic initiative to construct a new multi-user cruise terminal to meet the growing demands of the cruise industry. The decision to build this terminal at the Port's existing North 8 berth is aimed at maximizing cost efficiency, operational flexibility, and expediting the construction timeline to accommodate the largest cruise ships from various brands.
The existing North 8 berth, situated in close proximity to Port Canaveral's Cruise Terminal 5, was designed with multi-purpose flexibility in mind when constructed in 2018. With minimal modifications required, the current bulkhead at North 8 will be extended from 1,020 linear feet to 1,344 feet to accommodate larger vessels effectively. Waterside improvements on the north side of the shared basin will also enhance the berthing capacity of Cruise Terminal 5.
The new multi-user cruise terminal and associated parking facility will leverage advanced technology to ensure optimal flexibility for accommodating multiple users and brands. The North 8 location, combined with its current berth configuration and available uplands, offers the advantage of minimizing disruptions to ongoing port and tenant operations during the construction phase.
The timeline for the design, engineering, and construction of the new facility is currently being developed, with a targeted completion goal set for summer 2026. The terminal campus will feature a multi-story parking facility capable of accommodating up to 3,000 vehicles, alongside roadway enhancements including turning lanes and a dedicated "flyover" ramp directly connecting the site to State Road 401.