MSC Group’s cruise division has announced an agreement with Fincantieri for the construction of a new mega cruise terminal at PortMiami.

The terminal, which is due to be ready by December 2023, represents an investment of approximately €35om.

It will be able to accommodate MSC Cruises’ largest ships, including its newest flagship, MSC Seashore, as well as the line’s future LNG-powered World Class ships. Ships docked at the new terminal will also be able to plug in to the local power grid at berth.

MSC Group cruise division executive chairman Pierfrancesco Vago said: “For the past 35 years MSC Group has been an important partner for the US economy through our growing role as one of the world’s leading container shipping businesses as well as terminal operators for cargo and passengers alike. In this, Miami has always been a key hub and the new MSC Terminal at PortMiami consolidates our overall presence in this important maritime centre.

“Thanks to the Italian flair that Fincantieri will undoubtedly contribute to this project just like they do to many of our ships, this new state-of-the-art terminal will become a Miami landmark of style as well as comfort for passengers passing through what’s considered the cruise capital of the world.

“Moreover, it will serve as a platform to support and sustain the expansion of our cruise division across the region and in the Caribbean for years to come.

“It will also allow us to deploy there some of our most modern and environmentally high-performing vessels, representing together with our other investments in the US our commitment to the local market, our trade partners and guests.”

Fincantieri CEO Giuseppe Bono added: “Miami is undoubtedly the centre of world cruise tourism, as well as being the ideal hub for the entire Caribbean area, and is therefore the perfect showcase to host a work that will be representative of the best of made in Italy.”