This is way up from the more than 4m in 2022 when Canaveral for the first time became the world's busiest cruise port. Last year its 4,072,396 multi-day count just topped PortMiami's 4,022,544.
It is also higher than the 6.4m estimated earlier this year.
Record operating revenue
Total operating revenue in FY 2023 reached a record $191m, including a high from cruise operations of $158m.
'This is a significant jump from last year when we finished the year at $127 million. It has been quite a year at this port,' CEO Capt. John Murray said during during his annual 'State of the Port' address at Cruise Terminal 1.
Economic powerhouse
Murray called Canaveral an economic powerhouse in Florida, with the central part of the state 'immensely benefiting from our operations, with numerous jobs created, businesses thriving and increased tourism. We play a crucial role in supporting Florida's tourism industry,' he said.
According to the presentation, Canaveral contributed $6.1b to Florida's economy, driving 42,700 jobs with $2.1b in wages. Additionally, the port generated $189.5m in state and local tax revenues.
7.3m cruisers projected in 2024
Looking to 2024, Port Canaveral will again homeport 13 cruise ships and projects a rise to 7.3m revenue passengers on 913 calls.
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