project will modernize existing terminal, expand capacity to efficiently handle cruise industry's newest vessels
Port Canaveral is moving ahead with a major $95 million renovation of Cruise Terminal 10 as officials prepare for the arrival of larger cruise ships and increasing passenger traffic in the coming years. The project is designed to modernize the existing terminal and expand its capacity to efficiently handle some of the cruise industry’s newest vessels, which can carry up to 6,700 passengers.
BREVARD COUNTY • PORT CANAVERAL, FLORIDA — Port Canaveral is moving ahead with a major $95 million renovation of Cruise Terminal 10 as officials prepare for the arrival of larger cruise ships and increasing passenger traffic in the coming years.
The project is designed to modernize the existing terminal and expand its capacity to efficiently handle some of the cruise industry’s newest vessels, which can carry up to 6,700 passengers.
Rather than constructing a new facility, port leaders have opted to upgrade and reconfigure the current terminal to meet future operational needs.
As part of the initiative, the Canaveral Port Authority recently approved a $23 million contract with PCL Construction Services Inc. to complete critical infrastructure improvements at Cruise Terminal 10.
The work includes replacing aging waterside and landside trench drainage systems that have contributed to sinkhole issues in active vehicle and pedestrian areas.
Construction is expected to continue through November 2027.
According to Port Canaveral Vice President of Engineering and Construction William Crowe, planners are evaluating a range of terminal enhancements, including escalators, elevators, ramps, baggage handling areas, and overall square footage requirements.
Final design plans for the project are expected to be completed later this summer.
The upgrades come as major cruise operators continue introducing larger ships capable of carrying more passengers than ever before.
Increased capacity creates greater demands on security screening checkpoints, luggage processing systems, embarkation areas, and passenger flow throughout the terminal.
Port officials say the renovated facility will feature updated interiors, modern architectural elements, enhanced passenger amenities, and artwork intended to create a welcoming atmosphere for travelers.
The terminal project is one component of an ambitious capital improvement program underway at Port Canaveral.
The port has scheduled approximately $255 million in infrastructure and development projects during 2026 and plans to invest roughly $912 million in capital improvements over the next five years.
Port Canaveral is also nearing completion of a new parking structure at Cruise Terminal 6. The six-level garage will provide approximately 3,700 parking spaces and is expected to open in fall 2026.
With 18 cruise ships expected to be homeported at Port Canaveral next year and passenger volumes projected to reach about 9 million annually, officials say the upgrades are necessary to maintain efficient operations and support continued growth at what has become the world’s busiest cruise port.
