Disney Cruise Line makes Port Everglades its second year-round homeport
Disney Cruise Line has confirmed it will sail roundtrip from Port Everglades year-round, making the port only the second after Port Canaveral from which it does so. Disney Cruise Line signed a 15-year partnership for one ship to be homeported in Port Everglades year-round beginning in the fall, 2023.
Port Everglades is the main cruising port in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and the Disney agreement includes a minimum 10.6 million passenger movements, and three 5-year extension options that could add another 11.25 million passenger movements.
A second cruise ship will homeport in Port Everglades seasonally from 2025, according to a press release. “As we expand our fleet of ships and introduce innovative new cruise experiences, we couldn’t be more pleased to bring the magic of Disney to Port Everglades,” said Thomas Mazloum, President, Disney Cruise Line.
“With a dedicated, specially designed cruise terminal for our guests, we look forward to creating magical memories starting the moment they arrive at this exciting new homeport,” he added.
The inclusion of Port Everglades as a second homeport for Disney Cruise Line gives it a dedicated terminal in a market with direct highway access and one of the nation’s fastest growing airports, Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL). It is unlikely that the new Disney Wish will be homeporting in Port Everglades, as the port is not equipped to accommodate LNG refuelling. Disney Wish is the cruise line’s first LNG-powered cruise ship and has already been earmarked for Port Canaveral.
“We are diversifying our cruise portfolio and will have three major cruise companies sailing from Port Everglades, which will strengthen visitor numbers in support of our hospitality and tourism industry in Broward County,” said Jonathan Daniels, Port Everglades Chief Executive and Port Director.
Port Everglades will provide a dedicated cruise terminal for Disney Cruise Line, with Cruise Terminal 4 set to be redeveloped for the line.
“All we need is a little pixie dust to transform Terminal 4 and Disney is ready to sail,” said Daniels.
“Disney is a big name that will bring big business to Broward County,” said Broward County Mayor Michael Udine. “We welcome everyone under the sun, and Disney Cruise Line is an excellent fit for our inclusive, family friendly destination.”
