Each year, the millions of cruise passengers passing through Fort Lauderdale's Port Everglades seemingly have something new to look forward to whether it's a new cutting-edge ship or an upgraded terminal.
Just last fall, the Carnival Corporation completed a multi-million-dollar redesign and upgrade of Cruise Terminal 2 and Celebrity Cruises recently revealed exciting details about its new Terminal 25, which is slated to open this coming autumn.
"We are replacing two smaller and outdated cruise terminals with an innovative facility that is inspired by the sleek, futuristic design of Celebrity Edge and can accommodate some of the world's largest cruise ships," said Port Everglades Chief Executive and Port Director Steven Cernak in a statement this past June. "The time was right to build a new Terminal 25 that uses cutting-edge technology, such as electronic media-mesh for innovative messaging, to attract contemporary travelers who want to explore the world."
Other recent renovations include Cruise Terminal 4, which was extended by 225 feet for a total 1,125 feet of berth length to accommodate larger cruise ships. Port Everglades is currently home to two of the world's largest cruise ships in Royal Caribbean's Harmony of the Seas and Allure of the Seas.
Beyond the cruise terminals, Port Everglades is in the midst of the largest expansion project in its history. The project includes the manufacturing of three super-sized cranes valued at $13.8 million each as well as the lengthening of the Southport Turning Notch from 900 feet to 2,400 feet to allow for up to five new cargo berths.
What's more, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) recently installed the Port Everglades Physical Oceanographic Real-Time System (PORTS) advanced sensor device, which provides real-time tides, currents, water levels and other meteorological information to boaters and commercial mariners.
"Having real-time tides, water levels and other meteorological information all online or via a toll-free phone number is truly an asset that we can all enjoy," said Broward County Commissioner Chip LaMarca in a statement. "Moreover, this equipment is collecting data about our natural resources that we can apply to preparations for storms, climate changes and sea level rise."
Overall, the multi-million dollar investment in the port's growth is poised to benefit the economy and the cruise industry at large.
"Port Everglades' growth opportunity is in the expansion and rehabilitation of our facilities to support the newer vessels that are already being delivered on the order books," added Cernak. "We expect that some of those vessels will be homeported in South Florida. To play in that game you need the terminals to handle the latest and greatest guest offerings."
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