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Disney Cruise Line announces Port Everglades in Broward County as second year-round homeport

BROWARD COUNTY, Fla. — A new gateway to Disney fun is coming to the state.

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On Tuesday, the Broward County Commission, alongside Disney Cruise Line President Thomas Mazloum and Captain Minnie Mouse announced a new agreement naming Port Everglades as Disney’s second year-round home port.

The 15-year partnership includes a minimum of 10.6 million passenger movements and three five-year extension options that could add another 11.25 million passenger movements, Disney said.

READ: Disney Cruise Line to require children ages 5 and up to be vaccinated for COVID-19

In addition, the agreement provides one ship to be docked at Port Everglades year-round beginning next fall and joined by a second seasonal ship in 2025.

“As we expand our fleet of ships and introduce innovative new cruise experiences, we couldn’t be more pleased to bring the magic of Disney to Port Everglades,” Mazloum said in a news release. “With a dedicated, specially designed cruise terminal for our guests, we look forward to creating magical memories starting the moment they arrive at this exciting new homeport.”

The addition of Port Everglades as a second home port will give Disney a dedicated terminal “in a market with direct highway access and one of the nation’s fastest growing airports, Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport,” a news release states.

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“We are diversifying our cruise portfolio and will have three major cruise companies sailing from Port Everglades, which will strengthen visitor numbers in support of our hospitality and tourism industry in Broward County,” said Port Everglades Chief Executive and Port Director Jonathan Daniels. “I extend a special thanks to our County Administrator Bertha Henry and our County Commissioners for their faith and trust. All we need is a little pixie dust to transform Terminal 4 and Disney is ready to sail.”

Disney’s original home port is Port Canaveral in Brevard County.

“Disney is a big name that will bring big business to Broward County,” said Broward County Mayor Michael Udine. “We welcome everyone under the sun, and Disney Cruise Line is an excellent fit for our inclusive, family friendly destination.”

READ: Disney Cruise Line unveils newest ship, the Disney Wish

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Adam Poulisse, WFTV.com

Adam Poulisse joined WFTV in November 2019.