Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, PortMiami has been affected by the continuous suspension by the cruise industry and is now looking for ways of collaboration to continue operations.
According to Miami Herald, PortMiami earns upwards of $35 billion from its cargo business. The port, however, has implemented cost cutting measures to help it manage in the current business climate. So far, the Miami Herald reports the port has not had to draw on its financial reserves.
Consequently, in efforts to support the cruise industry the port announced a 30-day waiver of all lay berth fees for PortMiami’s home-ported vessels. The waiver in fees has cost the port more than $8 million so far.
In the beginning, the cruise ships were using the port as part of their efforts to conduct repatriation flights for the crew members on chartered flights from Miami International Airport. However, regulations from the Centers for Disease Control later prevented the crew from disembarking, PortMiami continues to provide dock space.
In addition, Miami-Dade Mayor Carlos A. Gimenez announced that the port will again extend the waiver of lay berth and harbor fees for an additional 30 days. The waiver has been extended through August 11, 2020, subject to availability at PortMiami.
Mayor Gimenez stated that
Our partnership with the cruise industry is stronger than ever, and we will continue to offer our support.
Although the port had long-term construction programs in plan, cruise suspension and the cost of the terminals impact its plans, and now the port entered into agreements with Virgin Voyages and MSC Cruises for new terminals. Similarly, the port and Carnival Corporation had also agreed to plans to renovate the existing terminals used by Carnival Cruise Line.
