PortMiami, known as the Cruise Capital of the World, experienced a historic moment on February 8 when it welcomed 10 cruise ships in a single day. This event allowed approximately 68,000 passengers to set sail from South Florida’s main port. Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava highlighted the importance of this achievement, reaffirming PortMiami’s role as the epicenter of world cruise tourism.
This record reinforces PortMiami’s position as a leader in the industry, but also reflects its economic impact, generating $61 billion annually and supporting more than 340,000 jobs. In addition, the port continues to innovate with sustainability initiatives, such as the shore power system, which reduces emissions and noise from docked cruise ships.
Cruisers that participated in PortMiami’s historic journey
The 10 cruise ships that docked at PortMiami included vessels from major cruise lines:
- Carnival Cruise Line: Carnival Magic, Carnival Sunrise.
- Holland America: Zaandam.
- MSC Cruises: MSC Seascape.
- Norwegian Cruise Line: Norwegian Escape, Norwegian Gem.
- Oceania Cruises: Sirena.
- Royal Caribbean International: Icon of the Seas, Independence of the Seas.
- Virgin Voyages: Scarlet Lady.
New additions for 2025 at PortMiami
PortMiami continues to expand its fleet with the arrival of new cruise ships in 2025:
- Cunard: Queen Anne (January 2025), Queen Elizabeth (October 2025).
- MSC Cruises: MSC World America (April 2025).
- Norwegian Cruise Line: Norwegian Aqua (April 2025).
- Royal Caribbean International: Wonder of the Seas (August 2025).
- Virgin Voyages: Brilliant Lady (October 2025).
- Oceania Cruises: Allura (November 2025).
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Innovation in sustainability: Onshore energy
One of PortMiami’s most significant advances is the shore power system, launched on June 17, 2024. This technology allows cruise ships to turn off their engines and connect to the shore power grid while docked, significantly reducing emissions and noise.
PortMiami is the first major cruise port on the U.S. East Coast to offer shore power at five piers. This initiative is the result of a collaboration between Miami-Dade County, Carnival Corporation & plc, MSC Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, Royal Caribbean Group, Virgin Voyages, and Florida Power & Light Company.
PortMiami is not only a benchmark in the cruise industry but also a key economic engine for Miami-Dade. With more than 340,000 supported jobs and an annual contribution of $61 billion, the port continues to attract millions of tourists and generate opportunities for the local community.
Tips for travelers departing from PortMiami
- Arrive early: The port can be congested, especially on busy days.
- Know your transportation options: Use public or private transportation services to get to the port.
- Explore Miami: Take the opportunity to visit attractions such as South Beach, the Art Deco District or the Vizcaya Museum & Gardens before or after your cruise.
- Verify travel requirements: Make sure you have all the necessary documentation for your cruise.
With its record 10 cruises in a single day and its commitment to innovation and sustainability, PortMiami is a global leader in the cruise industry. This achievement not only benefits travelers but also strengthens the local economy and promotes more environmentally friendly practices.
