Disney Cruise Line Celebrates Opening of New Cruise Terminal at Port Everglades

Disney Cruise Line’s magic arrived in greater Fort Lauderdale, Florida, at Broward County’s Port Everglades. Port and community officials joined Disney Cruise Line in celebrating the opening of the new dedicated cruise terminal and Disney Cruise Line’s second year-round homeport in Florida.

“The grand opening of our new dedicated terminal is an incredible milestone as we embark on the largest expansion in our cruise line’s history,” said Sharon Siskie, Disney Cruise Line’s senior vice president and general manager. “Now our guests will have even more options to experience the magic of a Disney vacation at sea and can begin creating lifelong memories with their loved ones from the moment they arrive.”

The ideal location of Port Everglades in South Florida allows visitors to enjoy gorgeous beaches, world-class entertainment, shopping, dining, and family and cultural activities before or after their cruise. The port is also close to major airports and roads, making it easy for travellers to get to and from.

When guests arrive at the port to begin their journey, they will “dive” into the world of Disney and Pixar’s “Finding Nemo,” with some of their favourite characters from the film displayed on colourful murals. The more than 104,000-square foot terminal was reimagined by Walt Disney Imagineering exclusively for Disney Cruise Line guests to provide a seamless embarkation experience.

Port Everglades’ CEO and port director, Jonathan Daniels, attended the dedication ceremony. “Disney Cruise Line is adding a new dimension to the Port Everglades experience,” he said. ” Our team is excited about this new adventure with Disney Cruise Line and expanding our cruise offering to reach a broader audience.”

Broward County Mayor Lamar P. Fisher joined federal, state, and local authorities at the grand opening event, saying, “Dream vacations start here in Broward County.” Disney Cruise Line’s arrival in our community increases holiday options at Port Everglades while improving our local economy and creating over 1,100 direct local jobs.

Disney Cruise Line is dedicated to making a long-term, positive difference in port communities. In tribute to Disney’s arrival at Port Everglades, the cruise company announced new community investments in Junior Achievement South Florida and the Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County. The funds will go towards various initiatives that encourage career development, creativity, and storytelling.

“It is critical to us to be good stewards in the port communities where Disney Cruise Line operates.” “We’re proud to continue investing in local youth programmes that empower and inspire the next generation of Broward County dreamers,” Siskie stated. Collaboration with these organisations will also allow Disney Cruise Line staff and crew to serve as mentors and connect with local kids via various educational programmes on land and at sea.

“Community partners, such as Disney Cruise Line, play a critical role in empowering today’s youth and shaping their futures for tomorrow.” This support is more than monetary; it is an investment in the future generation,” said Laurie Sallarulo, president and CEO of Junior Achievement of South Florida (JA).

The grant from Disney Cruise Line to Junior Achievement of South Florida will benefit the Junior Achievement (JA) Career Bound and JA Pre-Apprenticeship programmes and a particular marine service technician track that teaches students about the maritime industry, marine foundations, and engine fundamentals.

“The impact of Disney Cruise Line’s commitment reaches the very heart of our mission,” said Chris Gentile, Co-CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County, “which is to empower and uplift the youth of Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County.” The donation of Disney Cruise Line will assist in improving and supporting several of the organisation’s projects, including the Youth of the Year program.

The Disney Dream will set sail from Port Everglades on 20 November 2023, followed by the Disney Magic on 9 May 2024, offering guests a mix of three-, four-, and five-night cruises to tropical destinations in The Bahamas and the Caribbean.

Disney Cruise Line and Broward County announced a 15-year deal with a minimum of 10.6 million passenger movements and three 5-year extension options that may add another 11.25 million passenger movements as part of Disney Cruise Line’s expansion. The agreement provides for one ship to call Port Everglades home year-round, beginning with a second seasonal ship in 2025.