Cruise Passengers May Face Higher Parking Fees to Counter Port Canaveral Tariffs

PORT CANAVERAL, Fla. – What cruise passengers pay to park at Port Canaveral is about to become more expensive, and the reason is tariffs.

Wednesday, port commissioners are eyeing an increase to offset its increased costs.

The commission agenda states, “We are suggesting selective increases to certain tariff items, including adjusting the daily cruise parking rate from $17 to $20.”

With nearly a million individuals embarking on cruises each month during the port’s peak times, the port is currently generating record revenue from passenger parking.

Brevard County Community Correspondent James Sparvero asked Michelle Carlson about the proposed increase.

Carlson said she’s been on cruises from the port.

“It’s a bit high, honestly, but I suppose it would benefit the local economy,” she mentioned. “However, one must consider what advantage this poses for those cruising.”

The cruise enthusiast expressed that she believes raising parking costs wouldn’t negatively impact the port’s record-breaking attendance in general, though some might rethink their plans. “They’ll continue to come, but it might dissuade certain individuals,” Carlson stated. “Costs are rising overall, so naturally, some people from various economic backgrounds might not be able to enjoy these leisure trips with their families.”

Increases aren’t limited to parking fees; the port is allocating $1.2 million to manage the expense of tariffs on its mobile harbor cranes.

If the commission Wednesday approves raising parking fees, the increase goes into effect Oct. 1.