Port Authority plans major expansion projects for Cruise Terminals and infrastructure upgrades

The Canaveral Port Authority is gearing up for a major transformation, with plans for significant expansions and upgrades set to begin later this year. The highlight of the August 20, 2025, commission meeting was the announcement of a substantial expansion of Cruise Terminal 5, which will increase its size from 90,000 to over 170,000 square feet. This ambitious project is expected to enhance passenger experience and accommodate growing cruise traffic.

In addition to the terminal expansion, the port authority is set to demolish the existing parking garage serving Cruise Terminals 5 and 6, replacing it with a larger facility to better serve guests. A new parking garage is also planned for the East Side of the port, particularly at Cruise Terminal 3, in anticipation of increased demand due to a festival scheduled for 2027.

The port's capital expenditures for the upcoming fiscal year are projected at $43 million for cargo and infrastructure improvements, $18 million for road enhancements, and $6 million for parks and recreation. Over the next five years, the authority plans to invest nearly $1 billion, with key projects including the expansion of Cruise Terminal 10 and modernization of North Cargo Berths 1 and 2.

The most significant investment will be a new Cruise Terminal 4, with a budget exceeding $300 million, slated to kick off in 2027 and be completed by 2029. These developments signal a robust commitment to enhancing the port's capacity and infrastructure, positioning Canaveral as a key player in the cruise industry.