Sir Richard Branson, joined by Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava and Virgin Voyages’ CEO Tom McAlpin, made a splash with a ribbon-cutting ceremony marked by mermaid aerialists and a grand entrance via Virgin-branded electric Moke vehicles.
It also was the first time Scarlet Lady sailed from its new home.
LEED Gold certified
The terminal is LEED Gold certified, like Norwegian Cruise Line's new Terminal B at the port, with materials, air conditioning and electrical systems all designed to minimize environmental impact.
Terminal V is located at 718 N Cruise Blvd., an address that commemorates Branson’s birthday on July 18. It is found at the port's westernmost end and the berth is parallel to the mainland, providing stunning views of the Miami skyline.
132,000 square feet
The three-story, 132,000-square-foot structure sports a geometric design and a palm grove, a concept developed by the architecture and landscape firm Arquitectonica and built from the ground up by Suffolk Construction. Bermello Ajamil & Partners were the design architect of record.
Terminal V’s rooftop resembles the edges of a palm canopy with angular cutouts that allow natural light to stream through. Enveloped by more than 1,000 palm trees, the terminal features soaring floor-to-ceiling windows, skylights and lush indoor landscaping.
Emerald and ruby tones, local art
Inspired by Virgin Voyages' design ethos of the 'modern romance of sailing,' Terminal V’s interiors give a nod to mid-century design and are punctuated with emerald and ruby jewel tones. The space also incorporates changing LED screens, local artwork curated by the nonprofit organization Art in Public Places and an alfresco terrace. Outside, an expansive 'Sail the Virgin Way' sign and dramatic red lighting mirror the city's lights.
VIP and crew lounges
Sailors (passengers) who’ve booked suite accommodations have access to Terminal V’s VIP entrance, expedited security screening and an exclusive pre-boarding lounge. The new terminal also features a crew lounge.
Rounding out the design are designated areas for drop-offs, ride sharing and provisioning.
