Disney Cruise Line to stay at Port Canaveral
Mar 26, 2008

An agreement has been reached between Disney Cruise Line and Port Canaveral, ending speculation that DCL was seeking an alternate home port.

Under the terms of the 15 year contract, Disney's two new ships, expected to set sail in 2011 and 2012, will be stationed at Port Canaveral during the first three years of operation.

The new ships will be able to accommodate 4000 guests, 1300 more than the Disney Magic and Wonder. The Port Canaveral Authority has committed to building a 1000 space parking garage as well as expanding the dock, enhancing the terminal and enlarging the check-in area.

The construction is scheduled to be completed by October 1, 2010. In order to offset the $22 million cost, a $7 per person charge will be applied to Disney Cruise Line tickets beginning in 2010.

Over the course of the 15 year agreement, the Port anticipates generating $200 million in revenues.

The contract satisfies Disney's need for flexibility and the Port's need for a long term commitment to justify the necessary capital improvements.

Port Canaveral has also announced that Royal Caribbean's Freedom of the Seas will replace Mariner of the Seas in 2009.