Port Canaveral, Florida reported a record-breaking 925,994 cruise passengers in March 2025 making it the busiest month in the port’s history. These passenger numbers at the world’s second busiest cruise port helped generate $23.34 million in revenue for the port. The port is on track to welcome 8.4 million cruise passengers and complete a record Fiscal Year.
“It wasn’t long ago when we exceeded 500,000 guests in a single month. Now, with numbers like this approaching nearly a million, it’s not just remarkable, it demonstrates the strong demand for sailings from our Port. We’ve been predicting it, and we were ready for it,” stated Capt. John Murray, Port Canaveral CEO.
Murray also stated the port is investing millions of dollars to expand terminals, update parking facilities and technology which will enable quicker boarding. Currently home to 16 ships from 7 different cruise lines, the port is welcoming some of the industry’s newest and largest vessels. Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Aqua arrives on Saturday, April 25, 2025 and Royal Caribbean’s Star of the Seas will debut on August 20, 2025. Additionally, Carnival Cruise Line’s Carnival Festivale and MSC Cruises’ World Atlantic are expected to homeport from Port Canaveral in 2027.
Murray continued, “Port Canaveral has become the homeport of choice for new ships with more cruise lines deploying newer and larger existing tonnage, which speaks volumes about our partners’ confidence in our ability to consistently deliver high-quality experience for their guests.”
Naturally, more cruise passengers equates to more revenue for the port and local businesses. According to a study by the Space Coast Office of Tourism, 91% of cruisers stay overnight in the area with 27% extending their trips with a hotel stay before or after their cruise. Boosting the economy of local restaurants, hotels and businesses, cruisers spend an average of $3,072 during their visit.
The port is also looking to build more terminals and expand Cruise Terminal 5 allowing it to welcome larger ships. Once completed it will be nearly 65% larger at 150,000 square feet.