Port Everglades Sets Passenger Record in 2026
The Fort Lauderdale port hosted over 5 million cruise guests last year, marking a third consecutive year of growth.
Updated on Oct. 23, 2026 in Cruises
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Port Everglades processed 5.38 million cruise passengers during 2026, setting a new record for the third consecutive year. The facility expanded its infrastructure and organizational focus to accommodate the increased volume.
Why it matters
The port established a new Cruise Services Division to streamline operations and support its growing cruise business line. These improvements aim to manage capacity more effectively as the facility attracts new cruise lines for future seasons.
Port Everglades now provides 6,386 total parking spaces following an expansion that added 850 spots at Terminal 18. The site also hosted 40 different cruise ships and 9 cruise lines during the recent season.
The players
Port Everglades
This is a major cruise and container shipping hub located in Fort Lauderdale that serves as a gateway for international travel.
Martin Jackson
He serves as the director of the newly created Cruise Services Division at Port Everglades after joining the organization in 2025.
Romero Britto
He is a famous artist who created the cover artwork for the 2027-28 Cruise Guide and the mural displayed on the Palm Garage.
The details
Infrastructure upgrades included a new paint scheme and interior renovations at Cruise Terminal 18 to enhance the passenger experience. Additionally, the port collaborated with artist Romero Britto to feature custom artwork on the Palm Garage.
Timeline
Martin Jackson joined the port staff in January 2025.
The port hosted 5.38 million cruise guests throughout 2026.
The official cruise season began in October 2026.
Royal Caribbean's Legend of the Seas arrived in November 2026.
Crystal's Symphony and Orient Express Sailing Yachts will homeport at the facility during 2027.
Travel Outlook
This growth tracks with the facility's long-term capacity objectives defined in the Port Everglades 2027-28 Cruise Guide. The expansion mirrors broader industry efforts to manage increased passenger volume through targeted infrastructure investments.
With 850 new parking spaces now available at Terminal 18, passengers should find easier access during busy departure windows. Travelers planning cruises should monitor the port's updated terminal configurations before their arrival date.
The takeaway
The port is actively scaling its services to maintain its status as a leading departure point for international cruises. Frequent travelers can expect continued infrastructure improvements as the facility adds more homeported ships to its 2027 schedule.
Further reading
Learn more about the local industry at Fort Lauderdale Cruises.
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Is the increase in cruise tourism in your area generally a positive development for your community?
