Port Everglades Hosts Plaque and Key Ceremony for Sun Princess
Port Everglades welcomed Sun Princess, the newest addition to Princess Cruises’ fleet, with a plaque and key ceremony, marking its arrival to its winter homeport in Fort Lauderdale. The event was attended by key figures, including Princess Cruises’ President John Padgett, the ship’s Captain Paolo Arrigo, and local dignitaries like Broward County Mayor Nan Rich, who highlighted the economic impact of the cruise industry with over 4,000 jobs directly linked to it.
The ceremony celebrated the long-standing relationship between Princess Cruises and Port Everglades, spanning over 65 years. Sun Princess, the third ship to bear this name, is noted for its innovative design and significant legacy, including its connection to the iconic “The Love Boat” TV series.
Port Everglades’ CEO, Joseph Morris, emphasized the ship’s arrival as not only a technological advancement but also a continuation of a beloved tradition. The port expects a record-breaking cruise season with 4.4 million passengers and also includes ferry services to The Bahamas by Baleària. This event underscores the strong partnership and economic benefits between Princess Cruises and Port Everglades.
About Port Everglades
Port Everglades offers everything under the sun from Caribbean cruises to world voyages to fast ferry getaways — all from the vacation paradise of Greater Fort Lauderdale. Port Everglades’ enviable location in the heart of South Florida and the neighboring Caribbean, makes it one of the three busiest cruise ports in the world with nearly 4.4 million passengers anticipated this cruise season. Guests enjoy the port’s proximity to three international airports including rapidly growing Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) less than two miles away. For pre- and post-cruise stays, Port Everglades is a short drive to sweeping beachfronts, a vibrant art scene, world-class restaurants, craft breweries, entertainment, shopping, casinos, and family-friendly activities — including the area’s namesake, the Florida Everglades. View details on the latest cruise offerings at PortEverglades.net or contact us by emailing PortEverglades@broward.org.