Controversial Mega Cruise Port Planned for Florida, Locals Not Happy

Editorial Summary

Doug Parker reports on several developments within the cruise industry, beginning with a proposed cruise pier in Manatee County. SSA Marine is considering a large facility near the Sunshine Skyway Bridge on a 328 acre coastal site. While the port would allow larger ships to dock by bypassing current bridge size restrictions, environmental groups have raised concerns regarding potential harm to ecosystems near the Terra Ceia Sea Aquatic Preserve. The project remains in the early stages and requires public hearings. In Port Canaveral, a microburst of wind caused delays for passengers embarking the MSCC Grandiosa. Strong gusts disrupted terminal operations and briefly knocked out power, forcing the terminal to remove the gangway. Passengers were held in the terminal for over an hour before boarding resumed in small groups. Additionally, P&O Cruises has reversed its previous stance on guest compensation following backlash. The line is now offering a future cruise credit worth 25 percent of the fare to passengers from a disrupted December 26 sailing of the Britannia. Some passengers continue to demand cash instead of credits. Finally, the report notes a decline in cruise stocks for Carnival Corporation, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, and Viking.

Written by TripBacon from this video's transcript.