The opening ceremony was attended by officials from around the world, including members of the US House of Representatives; Secretary J. Alex Kelly of the Florida Department of Commerce; Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava; and Edoardo Rixi, Deputy Minister of Infrastructure and Transportation of Italy. Also present were Pierfrancesco Vago, executive chairman of the cruise division of the MSC Group, and Pierroberto Folgiero, CEO and managing director of Fincantieri.
Pierfrancesco Vago emphasised that ‘this state-of-the-art facility will not only enhance the travel experience, but will also bring significant economic benefits to the region, creating jobs and fostering the growth of the local economy’.
The terminal incorporates advanced technology to optimise energy efficiency. Among its most notable efforts is the implementation of shore-side electrical connectivity provided by Miami-Dade County, which helps reduce local emissions when ships are docked. In addition, the facility has waste management systems, water recycling and the use of sustainable materials. It is currently in the process of obtaining LEED Gold certification (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design), reaffirming MSC's commitment to sustainability and respect for the environment.
The terminal has been designed to ensure a better experience for passengers, who can check in online from the comfort of their home, upload their travel documents and receive their boarding pass in minutes. In addition, the option of advance biometric processing is available, saving time upon arrival.
Access to the terminal is easy, with a variety of transport options, including car, bus, taxi and carpooling. For those arriving by car, the terminal has a six-level garage with more than 2,400 spaces available.
A state-of-the-art baggage handling system, developed by Leonardo, ensures efficient processing for both passenger and crew baggage. In addition, check-in and security screening are optimised with biometric booths and efficient check-in lanes, enhancing the boarding experience. Passengers can relax in modern waiting areas, with an exclusive lounge for MSC Yacht Club members. The boarding process is completed with biometric electronic gates, allowing passengers to start their holiday without delay. Disembarkation and baggage reclaim are also streamlined, ensuring that passengers can return home quickly.
In addition to its impressive size and operational capabilities, the terminal is distinguished by its commitment to art and culture. MSC Cruises has collaborated with Miami-Dade County's Art in Public Places programme to commission seven works of art by both local and international artists, further enriching the passenger experience and highlighting the terminal's connection to the region's artistic community.
This opening is part of MSC Cruises' broader strategy to strengthen its presence in North America. Together with the division's new U.S. headquarters in Miami and expanded office in Fort Lauderdale, this infrastructure reinforces MSC Cruises' strategic and long-term commitment to the region.
The opening of the MSC Miami Cruise Terminal marks a significant milestone in the cruise industry, setting a new standard in terms of design, technology and sustainability, and consolidating MSC Cruises as a leader in the global cruise market.
