This article was first published in the Spring/Summer 2016 issue of International Cruise & Ferry Review. All information was correct at the time of printing, but may since have changed.
PortMiami has expanded significantly in recent times, and passengers are undoubtedly reaping the rewards. “Cruising from PortMiami is only getting better,” says Juan Kuryla. “Cruise passengers start their vacation experience the minute they arrive. Our cruise facilities are the most beautiful and modern, providing an easy passenger boarding and departure experience. We are continuously investing in improvements – our goal is to maintain our world-class rank as the market leader. We want to continue to offer our customers the best facilities and customer service and we are always preparing for the newest generation of cruise vessels and travellers.”
With this in mind, the port is already working on its expansion plans for the coming years. “Currently on the drawing board are plans to expand the cruise footprint, including options for new cruise berths and terminals as well as associated intermodal and parking facilities,” explains Kuryla.
What’s more, PortMiami is also working alongside Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. on a US$150 million expansion at the port. “The plan allows Royal to finance, design, construct, operate and maintain the new Cruise Terminal A,” says Kuryla. “We are also looking into a new Cruise Terminal AA. We are only in the planning stages at the moment, but we expect to announce some exciting news soon.”
Despite making great headway with its expansion plans, the port still has work to do. “One of the biggest challenges facing the port is the need for a more modern and innovative infrastructure,” Kuryla says. “PortMiami is meeting those challenges by working in partnership with its cruise partners.”
Looking ahead, Kuryla believes that PortMiami is poised for yet another exceptionally strong cruise season. “We expect to welcome five million cruise passengers, another world record, supporting a host of new cruise brands and newbuild ships that rank among the most innovative vessels on the seas today.”
Many of PortMiami’s current cruise partners are expanding their Miami fleets. New for the 2015-2016 cruise season is the Norwegian Cruise Line newbuild, Norwegian Escape. AIDA Cruises also added two cruise ships to its PortMiami line-up, AIDAmar and AIDAvita; and Resort World Bimini continues to sail from PortMiami to Bimini. Carnival Cruise Line’s Carnival Splendor recently started sailing from Miami, and its largest ship to date, Carnival Vista, is scheduled for itineraries starting in winter 2016. Additionally, Carnival Corporation named PortMiami as the homeport for the launch of its new social impact travel brand, Fathom, which will embark on seven-day voyages aboard its ship Adonia starting in spring 2016. Also this spring, Royal Caribbean International’s Empress of the Seas will homeport in Miami. With all of this to look forward to, Kuryla concludes: “The future is bright at PortMiami.”