MIAMI — The first images of Norwegian Cruise Line’s brand new terminal at PortMiami have just been released, depicting a facility that’s ultra-modern, sleek and spacious.

Pending the final approval by the Miami-Dade County Board of County Commissioners, the project will commence in May 2018. It is scheduled for completion by fall 2019, just in time for Norwegian Encore – the newest ship of the Breakaway Plus class – to make its debut in Miami with seasonal cruises to the Caribbean.

Upon completion, the multi-level, 166,500 square-foot terminal will boast indoor and outdoor waiting areas, a dedicated lounge and service area for large groups and charters, a new parking garage, and a valet parking area with direct access to the terminal and lounge. It will be able to accommodate ships of up to 5,000 passengers, and feature new technology to support faster embarkation and disembarkation processes, as well as expedited security screening and luggage check-in.

“Norwegian has been sailing from Miami for over 50 years, longer than any other cruise line, and we are honoured to be partnering with PortMiami and Miami-Dade County to construct an iconic terminal that will contribute to Miami’s world famous skyline and strengthen its position as the Cruise Capital of the World,” said Frank Del Rio, president and chief executive officer of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd., which operates the Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises brands.

As a result of the continued relationship with the cruise company, Miami-Dade County will invest US$100 million to build the new terminal dedicated to Norwegian Cruise Line, with Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. augmenting the county’s allocated funds with its own contribution.

“Investing in PortMiami’s infrastructure positions Miami as a global destination for visitors,” said Miami-Dade County Mayor Carlos A. Gimenez. “The construction of a new cruise terminal with the capacity to berth an additional 5,000-passenger cruise ship represents thousands of jobs and increased opportunities for our community. We are grateful for Norwegian Cruise Line’s continued partnership.”