MARGARITAVILLE AT SEA

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

Miami-Dade County Board of County Commissioners is considering a resolution to approve 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 at least $23.15 million in guaranteed revenues over a five-year term, commencing January 9, 2027, through April 30, 2031, with two optional five-year renewal terms. The agreement includes incentives for off-peak utilization and traffic management. The Aviation and Seaport Committee forwarded the resolution to the Board with a favorable recommendation. Commissioner Milan Orbis expressed appreciation for the revenue and the addition of a new 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, the year-long negotiation process, and confirmed the agreement's structure (five-year term with two five-year renewal options) and its operation out of Terminal C. Commissioner Gilbert III restated the question regarding advisability, which Mr. Wong confirmed. Commissioner Orbis also inquired about hesitation regarding granting berthing rights to a new cruise line, which Mr. Wong confirmed he did not have.