Florida’s three main East Coast cruise ports—PortMiami, Port Canaveral, and Port Everglades—have each reported record-breaking passenger numbers. This surge underscores the post-pandemic resurgence of the cruise industry, with all three ports expecting continued growth in the year ahead.
PortMiami remains the world’s largest cruise port, welcoming over 8.2 million passengers in the last fiscal year, up from 7.3 million the previous year. This growth represents nearly a 13% increase in passenger volume, as a diverse array of cruise lines call the port home.
PortMiami also set a new daily record with more than 67,000 passengers, and one day in December 2023 was expected to reach 70,000, though weather delays impacted the total. Miami-Dade County leaders highlighted the port's contributions to both the economy and sustainable development, recognizing it as a forward-thinking hub.
The port is preparing for even greater numbers by expanding its facilities to handle multiple large ships simultaneously. Future plans include additional terminals, shore power installations, and new ships that will operate from PortMiami on a year-round basis, supporting its record-breaking trajectory.
Port Canaveral, meanwhile, saw approximately a 10% increase in cruise passengers, reaching nearly 7.6 million in 2024. This growth was achieved despite only five additional cruise calls compared to the previous year, as the port continues to attract a steady flow of homeported ships.
Looking ahead, Port Canaveral expects even higher numbers in 2025, with a projected record of 8.4 million passengers. The port is also expanding its capabilities to support larger ships and more frequent sailings.
Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale also set new records with over 4 million passengers, marking a 39% increase in passenger numbers. With additional cruise calls anticipated, Port Everglades projects further growth, aiming for 4.4 million passengers in 2025.
The modern cruise industry has grown exponentially from its early beginnings in South Florida in the 1960s. Nearly 60 years later, the industry’s progress has exceeded all expectations, with these ports positioned to support the ongoing global growth in cruising.