The Broward County Commission was joined on Tuesday, December 14, by DCL-Disney Cruise Line President Thomas Mazloum and Capt. Minnie Mouse to celebrate the new agreement naming Port Everglades (Fort Lauderdale, Florida) as Disney’s 2nd year-round homeport.
DCL is bringing its magic to the cruise port in Broward County under a 15-year partnership including a minimum of 10.6M passenger movements, and an option for three 5-year extensions that could add another 11.25M passenger movements.
The agreement provides for one cruise ship to be homeported in Port Everglades FL year-round beginning fall 2023, joined by a 2nd, seasonal liner in 2025.
Mazloum said they were expanding their fleet of ships and introducing innovative new cruise experiences, so they "couldn’t be more pleased to bring the magic of Disney to Port Everglades."
“With a dedicated, specially designed cruise terminal for our guests, we look forward to creating magical memories starting the moment they arrive at this exciting new homeport.”
Adding Port Everglades as a 2nd homeport gives DCL a dedicated terminal in a market with direct highway access and one of the fastest-growing airports of the nation, Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport.
DCL’s original homeport is Port Canaveral (Orlando) FL, located in Central Florida.
Port Everglades Chief Executive & Port Director Jonathan Daniels said they were diversifying their cruise portfolio and would have 3 major cruise companies sailing from Port Everglades, which would strengthen visitor numbers in support of the hospitality and tourism industry in Broward County.
“I extend a special thanks to our County Administrator Bertha Henry and our County Commissioners for their faith and trust. All we need is a little pixie dust to transform Terminal 4 and Disney is ready to sail.”
Michael Udine (Broward County Mayor) said DCL was a big name that would bring big business to Broward County.
“We welcome everyone under the sun, and Disney Cruise Line is an excellent fit for our inclusive, family friendly destination.”