Following a close call with Hurricane Matthew in October, Port Canaveral in Florida now estimates about $7 million in damages. Earlier assessments had put the figure between $2 million and $3 million, but more thorough inspections have revealed a significantly higher total.
Damage estimates cover several areas, including roof repairs on port buildings, leaks at the cruise terminal, potential harm to port roads and the likely need for dredging to restore affected channel areas. While the storm stayed offshore and avoided catastrophic impacts, these issues still require substantial repair work.
Because the hurricane skirted the coast, more widespread destruction was averted and the port was able to reopen the day after the storm passed. Still, the port is pursuing assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency to help cover repair costs.
The storm disrupted cruise operations: two sailings were canceled — Disney Dream and Royal Caribbean’s Majesty of the Seas — and Disney Magic omitted Port Canaveral as a scheduled port of call. Additionally, three other ships sought shelter at the port to ride out the storm.
Port officials continue inspections and assessments to finalize repair plans and costs. The combination of building repairs, terminal maintenance and dredging work will guide the timeline for returning all port facilities and services to full capacity.