We’ve mentioned it several times before: the cruise industry is thriving, with more ships sailing the world’s oceans than ever and a passenger base that continues to grow. The 40 million cruise passenger milestone could be reached this year, or at least by 2026—a record! This is thanks in part to the revolution and innovations that began after the end of COVID.
A Continuous “Renewal”
Like every other tourism sector, the cruise industry also had its concerns about the future coming out of the pandemic. Perhaps even more so than others, given that a cruise means spending time in a relatively enclosed space with many other people…
But ultimately, things turned out well—very well, in fact. First, there’s this renewal the industry has embarked upon, now offering new formats, new approaches, and cruises that adapt to changing times and the new audiences interested in them. Younger, with an average age now under 50, more family-oriented, more diverse in terms of socioeconomic backgrounds, financial means, and expectations—this is the audience that has logically driven these changes in its own way.
To this, we must naturally add the technologies of our 21st century, which have also played their part. From prevention measures, particularly health-related ones, through high-performance equipment and new services, to more contactless features, smart connected bracelets for passengers, various apps, and increased use of augmented and virtual reality to assist cruise passengers—everything has been planned or reimagined. And not just onboard, as port terminals are also beginning their transformation to usher us into this new world of cruising.
The World’s Most Advanced Cruise Terminal
To see this in action, look no further than the MSC Cruises terminal inaugurated this year at PortMiami, Florida. This is the world’s largest and most innovative terminal, with over 485,000 square feet spread across four levels, capable of accommodating up to 36,000 passengers per day and three cruise ships simultaneously. Impressive, to say the least.
Naturally, everything has been designed around what’s called “the customer experience,” down to the smallest details, for passenger enjoyment and procedural efficiency. You can already check in and receive your boarding pass remotely before your cruise, via the internet or a dedicated app. Similarly, to save time, you can also prepare the biometric recognition necessary for boarding procedures in advance. For luggage, you can obviously check it in online, then scan your boarding pass to drop it off at one of 42 drop-off points where it will be handled—even from the terminal’s parking lot. And of course, the security and control phases are also simplified in this new terminal. Just scan your passport and look at the camera at one of the terminal’s 18 facial recognition kiosks to validate your identity, then proceed to one of the 22 security screening lanes offered for a quick and smooth procedure to board.
Welcome to Tomorrow’s Cruise Experience
In short, an ultra-modern terminal that contributes to what tomorrow’s cruise industry will be, including its infrastructure. Which, admittedly, bears a strong resemblance to what we already find in several major airports around the world that are, for their part, prefiguring what air travel will be tomorrow. Welcome, then, to the new world…
> Info: www.miamidade.gov
Hello! I’m Ben Fischer, a travel enthusiast who has journeyed far and wide to bring you unique and inspiring stories. Each destination is a new adventure for me, a chance to explore diverse cultures and share unforgettable experiences.
In my articles, I take you beyond mere descriptions of places. I share the encounters, special moments, and anecdotes that make each trip unique. My writing is an invitation to see the world through my eyes, blending practical tips with personal insights.
As a lifelong traveler, I approach each journey with respect and curiosity, eager to uncover the stories hidden in every corner of the globe.
