PortMiami has officially commenced construction on a new, state-of-the-art cruise facility. Officials from Miami-Dade County and Royal Caribbean Group held a groundbreaking ceremony for Cruise Terminal G, a project representing a $345 million investment in the city's vital tourism infrastructure.
The new terminal is designed to accommodate the next generation of cruise ships and is slated for completion in late 2027. This development is a key part of the port's strategy to enhance its capacity and efficiency as a global cruise hub.
Key Takeaways
- PortMiami has started construction on the new Cruise Terminal G, a project valued at $345 million.
- The facility is a partnership between Miami-Dade County and Royal Caribbean Group.
- It is designed to be LEED-certified and will have the capacity to process up to 7,000 passengers.
- The terminal is expected to be fully operational by the end of 2027.
A Landmark Project for Miami's Waterfront
The groundbreaking event was attended by key figures including Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava and Royal Caribbean Group Chairman and CEO Jason Liberty. The ceremony marks the beginning of a multi-year construction process aimed at transforming a section of the port's waterfront.
The project involves the design and construction of a modern facility capable of serving ships from Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, and Silversea. Officials state the terminal will significantly enhance the passenger experience through innovative technology and streamlined processes.
“This world-class facility will enhance Miami-Dade County’s skyline while marking another milestone in PortMiami’s evolution,” said Mayor Levine Cava. “Our modern terminals are transforming how we do business and move people, delivering greater efficiency through innovative technology.”
The development is a strategic move to secure Miami's position as a leading cruise port and prepare for future growth in the industry. The terminal's design focuses on both aesthetics and functionality, aiming to become a new landmark for the city.
Designing for the Future of Cruising
The new Cruise Terminal G is being developed with a strong emphasis on sustainability and technological advancement. The facility is designed to meet LEED certification standards, an internationally recognized mark of excellence for green buildings.
What is LEED Certification?
LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is the most widely used green building rating system in the world. Certification provides a framework for healthy, highly efficient, and cost-saving green buildings. Achieving LEED certification demonstrates a commitment to sustainable practices in construction and operation.
The terminal will be equipped to handle some of the largest cruise vessels in the world, with a capacity to process up to 7,000 passengers during peak operations. This high-capacity design is crucial for accommodating the newer, larger ships entering service in the coming years.
Jason Liberty, Chairman and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group, highlighted the project's forward-looking approach.
“Cruise Terminal G represents a major investment in Miami’s future. Built with advanced technology and sustainable design, this new facility will deliver a smarter, faster, more seamless experience for guests,” Liberty stated. “It reflects what matters most to us: innovation, collaboration and delivering the world’s best vacations responsibly, while creating jobs and supporting the local economy for years to come.”
The project is being delivered by Lemartec-NV2A Joint Venture, with architectural designs provided by Perez & Perez Architects & Planners. The collaboration aims to deliver a product that is both visually striking and operationally superior.
Economic Impact and Project Details
The $345 million price tag for Cruise Terminal G is funded through a public-private partnership between Miami-Dade County and Royal Caribbean Group. This collaborative funding model underscores the shared interest in bolstering the region's cruise industry, a major driver of the local economy.
Cruise Terminal G by the Numbers
- Total Investment: $345 million
- Passenger Capacity: Up to 7,000
- Target Completion: Late 2027
- Key Partner: Royal Caribbean Group
- Sustainability Goal: LEED Certification
While the terminal will be dedicated to Royal Caribbean Group's brands, it is being designed with multi-vessel functionality in mind, ensuring flexibility for PortMiami's broader operations. This adaptability is essential for managing the complex logistics of one of the world's busiest ports.
The construction and subsequent operation of the terminal are expected to generate significant economic benefits, including job creation and increased local spending. The port's press release emphasized that the project adds substantial value to its existing infrastructure and reinforces Miami's competitive edge in the global cruise market.
With a completion date set for late 2027, the project timeline reflects the scale and complexity of building a next-generation terminal. Once finished, Cruise Terminal G will play a pivotal role in the future of cruising from South Florida.
