Port Canaveral Launches $500M Infrastructure Overhaul
Port Canaveral has announced a $500 million investment in a sweeping infrastructure overhaul designed to modernize cruise terminals, expand cargo facilities and enhance public amenities under its “Port Canaveral Advantage” initiative. The multiyear program aims to balance today’s operational demands with preparations for future growth, ensuring that the Florida seaport continues to drive Central Florida’s economy.
At the heart of the project is a major expansion of Cruise Terminal 5, where BEA Architects of Miami will nearly double the facility’s footprint over a 16-month construction period while maintaining regular cruise operations. The enlarged terminal will accommodate larger ships and increased passenger volumes, cementing Port Canaveral’s position as a leading homeport for major cruise lines. Simultaneously, feasibility studies for Cruise Terminal 10 are slated for completion by June 2025; if approved, upgrades will enable CT-10 to serve vessels up to 1,200 feet long and carry as many as 5,600 passengers.
Cruise Terminal 1, one of the port’s busiest gateways, will receive a refreshed exterior beginning in May 2025. New canopies, walkways, landscaping and lighting will enliven the west entrance, while an adjacent parking garage will be repainted, fenced and outfitted with improved gangways to streamline embarkation. Together, these enhancements are expected to reduce congestion, improve passenger flow and elevate the arrival experience for more than 100 cruise sailings each season.
Beyond cruise operations, the Port Canaveral Advantage program dedicates funding to commercial cargo berths and access road improvements, ensuring efficient handling of container traffic and goods movement. Upgraded roadways will alleviate truck bottlenecks and support faster delivery schedules for regional shippers.
Port Canaveral is also investing heavily in its community-facing assets. Jetty Park, a 55-acre beachfront and campground that attracts nearly 400,000 visitors annually, is undergoing revitalization with new cabins, a camp store, a dog park, renovated bathhouses and enhanced recreational areas. These upgrades will cater to families, RV campers and anglers relying on the park’s pier and boat launch facilities. Nearby, Rodney Ketchum Park’s green spaces will be refreshed, and lighting and seating will be upgraded to support concerts, festivals and waterfront events.
The Cove, Port Canaveral’s dining and entertainment district, will see fresh landscaping, pedestrian walkway improvements and upgraded utilities for restaurants and bars that line the water’s edge. The enhanced public realm is expected to draw both local residents and cruise passengers seeking pre- or post-sailing leisure activities.
“Port Canaveral has been a driving force for the Central Florida economy for over seven decades,” said Capt. John Murray, Port Canaveral CEO. “Our challenge is balancing the business demands we have today while positioning ourselves for continued growth. This landmark capital program will serve our cruise partners, cargo customers and neighboring communities for decades to come.”
As construction unfolds across cruise terminals, cargo docks and public parks, Port Canaveral anticipates minimal disruption to ongoing operations. Phased scheduling and off-peak work hours will allow cruise sailings and cargo movements to proceed as usual. With the Advantage program set to reshape nearly every corner of the port, Port Canaveral is poised to meet the evolving needs of maritime commerce and coastal tourism well into the future.
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