Big changes could be coming to the Port of Palm Beach in Riviera Beach.
The Port is moving forward with plans for a $43 million cruise terminal improvement project designed to accommodate larger ships, improve the passenger experience and attract more cruise traffic to Palm Beach County.
On September 24, 2026, the Port Commission voted to seek competitive proposals for the project, which was identified as a priority in the Port’s 2023 Master Plan.
What’s Planned for the Port of Palm Beach?
The proposed improvements would modernize the existing cruise facilities without expanding the Port’s footprint.
Plans include:
- A new parking garage for cruise passengers
- A new passenger loading bridge connecting the terminal to ships
- Expanded security screening and baggage handling areas
- Additional mooring structures to accommodate longer cruise ships
The upgrades would allow the Port to handle larger vessels and potentially expand its cruise offerings.
More Cruises From Palm Beach County?
The Port of Palm Beach currently serves more than 300,000 cruise passengers annually.
Its only homeported cruise ship is the Margaritaville at Sea Paradise, a 1,680-passenger vessel that has operated from Riviera Beach since April 2022.
Port officials hope the improvements will eventually attract additional cruise ships and passengers, generating more business for nearby hotels, restaurants and other local businesses.
When Will Construction Begin?
The $43 million project is still in the planning and procurement stage.
While the Port Commission has authorized a competitive solicitation, a construction start date and completion timeline have not been announced.
The plans come as the Port of Palm Beach celebrates its 100th anniversary in 2026, marking a century since its first passenger ship arrived in January 1926.
For now, the proposed expansion represents a significant step toward making Riviera Beach a bigger player in South Florida’s cruise industry.
