Port Canaveral Florida USA experienced a bustling winter holiday season, surpassing previous records for both daily and monthly passenger counts in December.
With 734,485 passengers on its multiday cruise ships, December 2023 saw a notable increase compared to the 698,595 passengers in December 2022. Canaveral Port Authority Vice Chair Wayne Justice reflected on this significant growth, highlighting the remarkable transition from past passenger figures, which were once below 500,000.
The port's passenger count accounts for those boarding at the start of their cruise and again when disembarking, with ships based at the port counted twice. This tally includes passengers from ships making port-of-call stops but not based at the port, who are counted once.
The surge in numbers can be attributed to several factors, including an increase in ships based at Port Canaveral, the presence of larger vessels, and a higher volume of sailings.
In December, Port Canaveral welcomed 87 cruise ship calls, a notable rise from 72 in November and 64 in October. Furthermore, there were seven days in December when the port accommodated 6 cruise ships simultaneously, each docking at a major cruise terminal.
To address parking challenges, the port initiated a US$68.16 million construction project on its north side. This project aims to construct new parking garages near Cruise Terminals 6 and 10, providing relief for parking constraints. The development includes an 8-level, 1,940-space garage near Terminal 6 and a 6-level, 1,081-space garage near Terminal 10, slated for completion in late 2024.