Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, has recently completed a comprehensive study, engaging with over 7,000 travelers to gain insights into their experiences and the economic impact of the port.
The findings indicate a promising recovery for the cruise industry and highlight the significance of the port for Broward County’s economic well-being.
Conducted by Moffatt & Nichol and Dickey Consulting Services (DCS), the study surveyed passengers from various cruise lines, including Celebrity Cruises, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Silversea, Viking, and the Baleária Caribbean ferry. The survey took place over 20 days during peak and non-peak times from December 2022 to March 2023.
Key findings from the 2022/2023 Port Everglades Cruise Passenger Study include:
- 94% of surveyed passengers rated the “Ease of Sailing” from Port Everglades as Excellent or Good.
- The majority (53%) of domestic cruise guests reside in the U.S. Southeast, indicating a higher drive market compared to 2015.
- In the 2022/23 study, 26% of passengers drove their own vehicles to the port, while 35% opted for a taxi or ride-share service. These numbers increased from 2015 when 18% drove their own vehicles and 30% took a taxi.
- Canadian citizens accounted for 57% of international guests at the port.
- 56% of surveyed passengers had previously cruised from Port Everglades.
- The main considerations for booking a cruise were destination (42%), cruise line (28%), and cost (26%).
- 35% of passengers regarded the Fort Lauderdale area as a significant factor in choosing their cruise vacation.
- Hotel stays prior to the cruise decreased from 51% in 2015 to 34% in 2022-23, possibly due to the availability of shorter cruise itineraries attracting more local passengers.
- On average, passengers spent $288 on lodging, $134 on food and beverages, and $450 on other expenses per day during their visit to South Florida.
Port Everglades CEO and Port Director Jonathan Daniels expressed confidence in the cruise industry’s recovery, with an expected increase from 1.9 million passengers this fiscal year to 3 million passengers, and further growth projected for the 2023/24 season.
As the third largest cruise homeport globally, Port Everglades contributes significantly to the local economy, supporting 2,575 direct jobs and generating $786 million in economic activity. The study’s findings align with global trends reported by Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), which predicts a strong rebound in cruise tourism, with an anticipated 31.5 million passengers sailing in 2023.
Port Everglades remains committed to investing in its cruise facilities to meet the increasing demand and maintain its position as a premier cruise destination. The study underscores the importance of the cruise industry for the region’s economic prosperity and highlights the positive trajectory for the future of cruising.
Photo credit: Broward County’s Port Everglades
