On September 23, 2013 GrayRobinson held a Community Leader Forum at the Melbourne Rialto Hilton featuring John Walsh, Port Director and CEO of the Canaveral Port Authority. The Canaveral Port Authority offers cruise lines, cargo lines and shippers, businesses and vacationers the capabilities of a first-class deep-water port with the benefits of an uncongested setting and relaxed attitude.
Walsh began his presentation with the startling fact that more than four million passengers pass through the Canaveral Port Authority, which is more than any other port in the world, and the Port is growing. As ships grow in size, the Port is considering new facilities to accommodate the critical mass resulting from the new ship sizes. The Port benefits many industries in the surrounding area including the hotel and transportation industries. In fact, the average spend per passenger is $162 at the port of call.
In addition to the cruise lines, the Port also has a busy cargo business comprised of bulk shipments. The Port is working on a new cargo terminal and is focused on attracting a logistics warehouse. Walsh also mentioned that the Port is looking at intermodal options. As the Port celebrates its 60th anniversary on November 4th, the future is very bright.
Through its Community Leader Forums, GrayRobinson brings together clients, attorneys and friends of the firm to hear high-profile business and community leaders and elected officials discuss issues of importance to the state of Florida.