MARGARITAVILLE AT SEA

Aviation and Seaport Committee · 2026-06-08 · resolution

Miami-Dade County is approving a Preferential Berthing Rights Agreement with Classica Cruise Operator Ltd. d/b/a Margaritaville at Sea (MVAS). The agreement is for Cruise Terminal C and has a five-year term starting January 9, 2027, through April 30, 2031, with two optional five-year renewal terms. The anticipated positive fiscal impact to the county is $23,148,594.00 over the initial term. The agreement is expected to generate approximately one million passenger movements. Commissioner Milan Orbis expressed appreciation for the revenue and welcomed another cruise line but inquired about the advisability of long-term agreements with new lines. Mr. Wong explained the significant barriers to entry in the cruise industry and confirmed the agreement was advisable, noting it would operate out of Terminal C. The agreement includes incentives for off-peak utilization, terminal efficiency, traffic reduction, and cruise demand promotion. MVAS is a growing cruise operator with a focus on short- and mid-length Caribbean itineraries, expanding to a three-ship fleet by 2027, with one vessel homeporting in Miami.