After several months under construction, the second-busiest cruise port in the world has finally re-opened one of its terminals. Started in March of last year, the recent renovations to Cruise Terminal 4 of Florida’s Port Everglades introduce cruisers to a variety of modernizations and upgrades, along with plenty of new perks that promise to make the process of getting on and off their ships even more pleasant.
An expanded parking lot now serves the terminal. In addition to over 170 more spaces, the lot offers improved traffic flow and new, covered pick-up and drop-off zones.
Inside, the 100,400-square-foot terminal has undergone a facelift to achieve an airy and sun-filled space. Improved acoustics, brighter lighting, and a high-efficiency air-conditioning system provide a pleasant, more agreeable atmosphere throughout the facility. Passenger embarkation has also been streamlined with the addition of 50 new check-in counters and several more elevators and escalators.
The massive refurbishment isn’t limited to upgrades in efficiency. Over the next few weeks, a beautiful tile mural entitled “Pelican Path” will be installed by local artist, Xavier Cortada. The colorful artwork will be the final flourish on a comprehensive overhaul that, according to officials, will dramatically improve the passenger experience at Port Everglades.
The renovation of Cruise Terminal 4 is the sixth one in the last five years at Port Everglades, which is undergoing a major multi-year expansion. In addition to upgrading its cruise terminals, the port also is making dock improvements, such as a 250-foot extension of a slip adjoining Cruise Terminal 4 that will allow it to accommodate much larger cruise ships.
In 2014, 4 million cruisers passed through Port Everglades, making it one of the busiest in the world. The facility hosts ships from a number of popular cruise lines, including Royal Holiday affiliates such as Royal Caribbean and Carnival.
