Demolition Underway at PortMiami to Make Way for New Royal Caribbean Terminal

Big changes are underway at the world’s busiest cruise port. Royal Caribbean has begun demolishing its ageing Terminal G at PortMiami to make way for a sleek, high-capacity facility that promises faster boarding, better technology, and a more seamless start to your holiday.

If you’ve cruised from Miami before, you’ll know the difference a well-designed terminal can make and this one is shaping up to be a game-changer.

All Rendering Credits in This Article: Bermello Ajamil & Partners

What Is Terminal G and Why the Upgrade?

Terminal G has long been the forgotten sibling of PortMiami’s cruise terminals. Built in 1999 to welcome Voyager of the Seas, it served its purpose for decades. But compared to newer facilities, it now feels outdated and inefficient.

Until recently, it was mainly used for older or smaller Royal Caribbean ships, a step down from the state-of-the-art Terminal A nearby. With modern cruise ships carrying more guests than ever, Royal Caribbean decided it was time for a serious upgrade.

What to Expect from the New Terminal

A modern cruise terminal lounge featuring curved white seating, ocean-themed wall art, and blue wave-like fabric structures hanging from the ceiling. Several people are seated or walking around, creating a calm, welcoming vibe. — Credit: Bermello Ajamil & Partners

The new Terminal G isn’t just a renovation – it’s a complete transformation. Once complete, it will be able to process up to 7,000 passengers per day, making it capable of handling Royal Caribbean’s largest ships, including the Icon and Oasis Class vessels.

Terminal A will no longer be the only place in Miami for these mega-ships. The upgraded facility will also be used by Celebrity Cruises and Silversea, extending its benefits across the Royal Caribbean Group.

Design Features and Passenger Flow

Terminal G is being built with passenger flow in mind. Its multi-level layout separates arriving and departing guests, helping to reduce congestion and speed up the boarding and disembarkation process.

The design will also support simultaneous embarkation and disembarkation, keeping operations smooth. A multi-storey parking garage, with ground-level bus parking and designated drop-off zones, will make arrivals and departures more efficient for all travellers.

Spacious and brightly lit cruise terminal interior with multiple security lanes, people queuing at check-in, and colorful marine-themed murals on the walls, including vibrant fish and underwater scenes. — Credit: Bermello Ajamil & Partners

Smart Technology and App Integration

Royal Caribbean is well known for making the boarding process easy, and the new Terminal G will take that even further. Guests will be able to check in, upload passport photos, complete health questionnaires, and access a mobile boarding pass – all through the Royal Caribbean app.

Unlike cruise lines that still rely on printed documents, Royal’s digital-first approach means you can go from curb to bar in minutes, avoiding paperwork and long waits.

Sustainability and LEED Certification

Terminal G is being built with sustainability at its heart. Royal Caribbean is aiming for LEED Silver certification, a globally recognised mark for environmentally responsible construction.

The terminal will prioritise energy and water efficiency, renewable energy production, waste reduction, and the use of sustainably sourced materials. It reflects Royal Caribbean’s broader commitment to greener cruising, both at sea and on land.

Construction Timeline and PortMiami Redevelopment

Exterior view of Royal Caribbean’s new cruise terminal with sleek blue branding, including logos for Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, and Silversea, overlooking the waterfront with a clear, sunny sky. — Credit: Bermello Ajamil & Partners

Demolition of the old Terminal G began on July 9, 2025, and the new terminal is expected to be mostly complete by 2027. It forms part of a wider $2.8 billion deal signed by Royal Caribbean Group in 2022, which includes a 36-year lease on the terminal site.

The redevelopment extends beyond Terminal G. A shared terminal with MSC Cruises is set to open in October 2028, and new corporate headquarters are also being built on Dodge Island, securing Royal Caribbean’s Miami presence through to at least 2072.

While the new terminal will be a major upgrade, the construction phase could mean temporary disruption. PortMiami traffic is already challenging, and construction at Terminal G may increase congestion at nearby terminals, particularly Virgin’s Terminal V and Carnival’s Terminals E and F.

Final Thoughts

Royal Caribbean’s new Terminal G represents a significant step forward in the cruise experience. With increased capacity, streamlined technology, and a focus on sustainability, it promises to make cruising from Miami faster, easier, and more enjoyable.

There may be some short-term inconvenience, but by 2027, Terminal G is set to become one of the most impressive cruise terminals in the world.