MSC Cruises Unveils World’s Largest Cruise Terminal in Miami

MSC Cruises has officially opened the world’s largest cruise terminal at PortMiami, setting a new global standard for cruise travel with a fully integrated biometric journey and digital identity verification for seamless embarkation. The state-of-the-art MSC Miami Cruise Terminal was inaugurated on April 5 and is poised to transform the guest experience through cutting-edge technology and innovative design.

Designed by the global architecture firm Arquitectonica and built by Fincantieri Infrastructure, the 492,678-square-foot terminal can process up to 36,000 passengers per day. Serving both MSC Cruises and Explora Journeys, it will be the homeport for the company’s new flagship, MSC World America, which will begin her inaugural Caribbean season next week following a naming ceremony at the terminal on April 9.

Guests can now check in from home via the MSC for Me app or the MSC Cruises website by uploading travel documents and preparing for biometric screening in advance. Upon arrival, the process is effortless, with a six-level garage offering over 2,400 parking spaces, a covered drop-off zone, and streamlined access to the terminal.

Baggage drop-off is simplified through strategically placed drop points in the garage. The terminal features 18 biometric face pods for fast ID validation and 20 security lanes to ensure an efficient screening process. For embarkation, 22 biometric E-gates allow guests to board directly from the terminal, saving time and enhancing comfort.

Inside, guests can relax in a bright terminal with expansive glass walls overlooking Biscayne Bay. Travelers in the MSC Yacht Club enjoy an exclusive private lounge with premium amenities. After the cruise, an advanced baggage handling system ensures quick disembarkation and luggage collection.

The terminal also doubles as a hub for public art, featuring seven curated works and a striking 10,816-square-foot digital projection on its exterior that uses real-time NOAA oceanic data. This dynamic installation, along with art featured in the MSC Yacht Club lounge, reflects the cruise line’s blend of technology, sustainability, and luxury travel innovation.