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Port Canaveral Plots a $500 Million Course Toward the Future with Major Upgrades Across the Board
Anchors aweigh, because Port Canaveral is setting sail on a bold new journey—with a whopping half-billion-dollar investment into its future. Announced on May 1, 2025, the “Port Canaveral Advantage” initiative is a five-year improvement plan designed to elevate every corner of this bustling seaport. From massive cruise terminal upgrades to sleek new tech and expanded cargo capabilities, Port Canaveral is ready to chart a course into the next era of travel and trade.
Related: Animation Courtyard Gets Energetic Summer Makeover at Hollywood Studios
A Powerhouse for Central Florida
“Port Canaveral has been a driving force for the Central Florida economy for over seven decades,” said Capt. John Murray, CEO of Port Canaveral. “Our challenge is balancing the business demands we have today while positioning ourselves for continued growth.” And with these new enhancements, Port Canaveral is doing just that—investing in the future without hitting pause on the present.
The “Port Canaveral Advantage” is more than a clever name. It’s a port-wide transformation strategy that takes into account every aspect of the operation, from cruise terminals to cargo berths to recreational spaces like Jetty Park. It’s all about boosting efficiency, expanding capacity, and upgrading experiences—for passengers, shipping partners, and Space Coast locals alike.
Cruise Terminal Upgrades: Big Ships, Bigger Plans
Cruise fans, this one’s for you. Port Canaveral’s Cruise Terminal 5 (CT-5) is set for a major glow-up, expanding by 65% to better accommodate today’s larger-than-life ships. The terminal will remain open throughout the estimated 16-month build, so passengers won’t miss a beat (or a buffet).
Meanwhile, Cruise Terminal 10 (CT-10) is preparing for its own evolution, with a feasibility study underway to potentially welcome the world’s largest cruise ships—think up to 5,600 passengers and ships up to 1,200 feet long. And starting this May, Cruise Terminal 1 (CT-1) will get a fresh exterior with covered walkways, new lighting, landscaping, and upgrades to its parking garage and gangways.
Not to be overlooked, Cruise Terminal 6 just got a boost thanks to a new Cruise Automation Team, laser-focused on keeping boarding bridges running smoothly and guest experiences seamless. Talk about boarding brilliance!
Cargo Operations: Smooth Sailing for Global Trade
Port Canaveral isn’t just about vacationers sipping frozen drinks. The commercial side of the Port is getting a serious upgrade too. Renovations to the southside pier structures will open up more multiuse berth space, while North Cargo Berths 3 and 4 are adding 1,800 feet of new bulkhead space.
The Port is also welcoming a third mobile harbor crane later this year and undertaking vital dredging projects to deepen berths and accommodate larger vessels. On land, new roadway improvements are designed to make cargo traffic flow faster and smoother, cutting down on truck congestion and wait times.
Jetty Park & The Cove: Where Recreation Meets Renovation
Let’s not forget the beachside bliss! Jetty Park, the Port’s beloved recreational area, is receiving a magical makeover. Upgrades include:
- New camp store and guest cabins
- Renovated bathhouses and playground
- Roadway and lighting enhancements
- Dog park and improved boat ramps at Rodney Ketchum Park
Even The Cove—home to your favorite Port-side eats and drinks—is getting spruced up with new landscaping and entrance improvements. Whether you’re staying for a day or a dockside dinner, the visitor experience is leveling up.
Related: New Menu Items at Sci-Fi Dine-In in Hollywood Studios
From Ships to Shuttles: A Port Like No Other
Port Canaveral’s connection to the stars is still going strong. SpaceX and Blue Origin both operate from the Port, using its cargo berths to offload and transport recovered rockets and spacecraft. Yep, this port handles everything from moon missions to margaritas!
Final Thoughts
From coastlines to cargo, cabins to cruise terminals, Port Canaveral is thinking big and building bigger. With a $500 million infusion of improvements, the Port is reaffirming its position as one of the top travel, trade, and tourism hubs in the U.S.—and it’s doing it with a bold blend of ambition and Florida sunshine.
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