MARGARITAVILLE AT SEA

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

Miami-Dade County Board of County Commissioners (BCC) is considering 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 is for the use of Cruise Terminal C and is anticipated to generate a positive fiscal impact of at least $23,148,594.00 over a five-year term, commencing January 9, 2027, through April 30, 2031, with two optional five-year renewal terms. The agreement includes a Minimum Annual Guarantee based on approximately 170 vessel calls and a unitary fee per passenger, subject to a 3% annual escalation. Incentives are provided for parking, marketing, non-peak day calls, and evening calls. The Aviation and Seaport Committee forwarded the resolution to the BCC with a favorable recommendation. 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, from the administration, 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 for the County to enter into the agreement, operating out of Terminal C. Commissioner Orbis confirmed no hesitation regarding granting berthing rights to a new cruise line.