MARGARITAVILLE AT SEA

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

Miami-Dade County Board of County Commissioners adopted a resolution approving a Preferential Berthing Rights Agreement between Miami-Dade County and Classica Cruise Operator Ltd. d/b/a Margaritaville at Sea (MVAS). The agreement grants MVAS preferential berthing rights at Cruise Terminal C. The initial term is from January 9, 2027, through April 30, 2031, with two optional five-year renewal terms. The agreement is anticipated to generate an estimated positive fiscal impact of $23,148,594.00 to the County over the initial five-year term, with potential for additional revenue from passenger volumes exceeding the Minimum Annual Guarantee. The agreement includes incentives for off-peak utilization, terminal efficiency, reduced traffic impacts, and cruise demand promotion. Commissioner Milan Orbis expressed appreciation for the revenue and the addition of 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, noted the agreement's structure (five-year term with two five-year renewal options), and confirmed it was advisable and that he had no hesitation regarding granting berthing rights to a new cruise line. MVAS is an emerging cruise line backed by private equity firm Sycamore Partners, focusing on short- and mid-length Caribbean itineraries, and will homeport in Miami starting January 2027 with a three-ship fleet.