noticias
PortMiami achieves a record number of dockings in a single day with 68,000 cruise passengers
Feb 11, 2025
On February 8th, PortMiami simultaneously received 10 cruise ships, which, according to authorities, sets a record for the port by bringing nearly 68,000 passengers to the "Magic City."
Among the ships that participated in this milestone are the Carnival Magic and Carnival Sunrise from Carnival Corp. (NYSE: CCL); the Icon of the Seas and Independence of the Seas from Royal Caribbean International (NYSE: RCL); the Norwegian Escape and Norwegian Gem from Norwegian Cruise Line (NYSE: NCLH); the Zaandam from Holland America; the MSC Seascape from MSC Cruises; the Sirena from Oceania Cruises; and the Scarlet Lady from Virgin Voyages.
“It is no surprise that PortMiami and the cruise industry continue to break records,” said Miami-Dade County Mayor, Daniella Levine Cava. “PortMiami is the preferred departure option for all major cruise lines. As a destination, Miami-Dade is undoubtedly the world center for cruise tourism, with incredible weather, culture, and unlimited options for exciting experiences.”
Several new ships are scheduled to debut at PortMiami this year, including the Wonder of the Seas from Royal Caribbean, the Aqua from Norwegian, the World America from MSC, the Allura from Oceania, the Brilliant Lady from Virgin, and the Queen Anne and Queen Elizabeth from Cunard.
In addition to this achievement, PortMiami launched its shore power initiative in June 2024. This project allows cruise ships to connect to the local electrical grid while docked, reducing emissions and noise. The initiative is part of a broader commitment to sustainability and environmental management.
PortMiami remains a key economic engine for Miami-Dade County, contributing over $61 billion annually and supporting more than 340,000 jobs. Its status as the "Cruise Capital of the World" and the "Cargo Gateway to the Americas" underscores its importance as a global maritime center.
The port is expanding its facilities with new terminals and docks, including the upcoming MSC cruise terminal, which will be able to accommodate three ships simultaneously. Additionally, Royal Caribbean is planning a new terminal and its headquarters at PortMiami. These developments are part of a $2.4 billion capital development program aimed at maximizing the port's limited space and supporting its future growth.
Compared to other ports in Florida, PortMiami's new record stands out. Port Everglades, for example, set a record on December 1, 2019, with eight cruise ships and a ferry, accommodating 55,964 passengers in a single day. Meanwhile, the Port of Palm Beach reached a different milestone on February 1, 2024, when its 17 docks were occupied by a mix of cruise ships, cargo vessels, and private yachts.
PortMiami received 8.2 million cruise passengers in fiscal year 2024, while Port Everglades reported 4 million passengers. The figures from the Port of Palm Beach for 2024 are still pending, although in 2023 it experienced significant growth with 412,091 passengers, representing an increase of 183% from the previous year.