Port Canaveral has unveiled plans for a new cruise terminal aimed at addressing the rising demands of the cruise industry. The proposed multi-user terminal will be located at the Port's existing North 8 berth, promising cost savings, operational flexibility, and a construction timeline of around two years. This facility is designed to accommodate some of the world's largest ships across various brands.
"We have cruise partners with immediate needs to locate assets in Florida, and Port Canaveral is where they want to be," stated Capt. John Murray, CEO of Port Canaveral. He emphasized that efficiently bringing a new terminal online is crucial for retaining and growing this business segment that supports numerous jobs and contributes significantly to both regional and state economies.
The North 8 berth, which shares its basin with Cruise Terminal 5 on the north side of Port Canaveral, was initially constructed in 2018 with multi-purpose flexibility in mind. It will require minimal modifications to extend from its current 1,020 linear feet bulkhead to 1,344 feet to host large cruise vessels. Improvements are also planned for the waterside area of the shared basin to enhance berthing capacity at Cruise Terminal 5.
The forthcoming terminal will feature technology-driven facilities offering flexibility for multiple users and brands. The location at North 8, along with its current berth configuration and vacant uplands, minimizes disruption during construction activities.
Micah Loyd, Chairman of the Canaveral Port Authority Board of Commissioners, remarked on the project's significance: "A new cruise terminal and the business it will deliver builds on our Board’s commitment to the economic prosperity of our Port community." He added that this proactive strategy ensures Florida continues thriving as a key player in cruise tourism.
Plans are underway for design, engineering, and construction with an anticipated completion by summer 2026. The development includes a multi-story parking facility capable of accommodating up to 3,000 vehicles alongside roadway improvements like turning lanes and a direct "flyover" ramp connecting State Road 401.