Over the course of just two weeks, Port Everglades (Fort Lauderdale FL) in Broward County concluded the naming ceremonies, Plaques-and-Keys events and maiden sailings of three new cruise ships, underlining its emerging prominence as a premier homeport for major industry debuts.
The sequence began with Star Princess of Princess Cruises, named on November 6th, followed by a formal plaque ceremony on November 7th.
Next came Disney Destiny of Disney Cruise Line, christened on November 10th, and then Celebrity Xcel of Celebrity Cruises, named on November 16th with its own plaque ceremony earlier in the week.
With each new ship’s arrival, the port marked its maiden departure with traditional tug-boat water sprays, sending the vessels on their inaugural voyages — a gesture that also drew well-wisher gatherings along the port channel.
The three new additions are among the most advanced in current service, each powered by alternative fuels — including LNG and green methanol — aligning with the port’s growing emphasis on environmentally sustainable cruising.
Port leadership interpreted the rapid succession of ship launches as a sign of confidence from major cruise operators. The port’s 2025 fiscal year, which began in October 2024, has already recorded a preliminary passenger count exceeding 4.7 million, underscoring the strategic value of Port Everglades as a central gateway for Caribbean and international cruising.