Busiest Day at the Port in 

More Than a Decade 

For the first time in more than a decade, all the berths at the Port of Palm Beach were occupied. 

On February 1, 2024, the Port of Palm Beach achieved a total tonnage of 119,081 gross registered tons (GRT) thanks to the help of 15 vessels including:

-    Five Tropical Shipping container ships
-    Three tugboats
-    Two barges
-    One yacht transport ship
-    One general cargo ship
-    One mega yacht
-    Margaritaville at Sea Paradise cruise ship

and one Vietnam-era patrol boat.

Port of Palm Beach staff continues to focus on optimizing berths to enhance efficiency and boost revenue.

On the heels of a recent report showing Florida’s system of seaports experienced record-high cargo growth, the Port of Palm Beach is among those Florida seaports experiencing milestones in ships calling on the port, as well as record revenue.

Richards credits the additional revenue to operational changes related to the cruise industry and strategic improvements in the cargo areas.

On the cruise side, the number of passengers traveling through Port of Palm Beach soared by 183 percent compared to prior fiscal year. The significant increase combined with changes in cruise operations, further added to the Port’s revenue success.

“As this year’s chair of the Board of Commissioners, I will continue to work with my fellow commissioners and the Executive Director to continue to drive our Port to new heights,” Chairman Richards said. 

Update on Maintenance Dredging Project

On January 16th, the United States Army Corps of Engineers awarded the $3.5M project to The Dutra Group. The Notice to Proceed is expected in mid-February.

The Dutra Group will have until the end of May to complete the maintenance dredging.

The 100,000 yards that will be removed from the channel and settling basin will go to a near shore location, instead of the beach. Public Information Office Yaremi Farinas will keep you updated on the project. 

Port of Palm Beach Participating in Numerous Career Fairs to Promote Paid Summer Internship Program 

As the Port of Palm Beach gears up to open applications for its Summer Internship Program, port staff is scheduled to visit more than eight schools to promote the program.

                View list of schools here

With applications opening March 11^th, students enrolled in university, college, or trade school, are encouraged to apply early due to the high volume of applicants anticipated this year. 

The 2024 Summer Internship Program offers opportunities across a broad spectrum of industries.  Applicants can select to intern in finance/ accounting, administration, communications, engineering, information technology (IT), operations, planning, and tenant relations. New this year, port tenant Ozinga, is looking for a student interested in learning how to operate the company’s cement terminal.   

For information on program dates, student criteria, application requirements, and the selection process, visit our website.

 Cargo Tonnage Report

                                                     Actual                   Prior Year Actual

Rail cars                               2,441                   2,814

TEUs                                   48,637                  43,477

Break-bulk                          19,186                   31,889

Asphalt                                36,016                  20,273                       

Cement                                27,651                 12,627

Recyclable Steel                  11,346                  9,492                    

Raw Sugar                           90,600                  73,400

Molasses                             12,679                   0

Port of Palm Beach Contributes to Success of ManateeFest

This year's ManateeFest attracted more than 9,000 visitors to Manatee Lagoon, which is located just south of the Port of Palm Beach.

Overflow parking was available at the Port of Palm Beach thanks to port tenants Tropical Shipping and Ozinga. The companies provided land within their facilities to allow parking for more than 500 vehicles. 

“A special thanks to the security team Sgt. Peter Wright, Sgt. Jeff Farr, Port Security Officer Anthony Harrell and Manatee Lagoon parking personnel for directing traffic while maintaining port cargo operations during the event,” Director of Operations Rick Placeres said. 

Manatee Lagoon & External Affairs Emergency Preparedness Manager Zack Greenberg expressed his gratitude to the Port of Palm Beach for providing the free parking.

"ManateeFest was a huge success, far exceeding anyone’s expectations on attendance.  We would not have been successful had it not been for all of your support and help," Greenberg said.

Social Media Buzz

Margaritaville At Sea News and Promotions

In celebration of a record-setting year of serving Heroes and their families aboard the Paradise, Margaritaville at Sea is proud to announce industry-leading enhancements to the Heroes Sail Free program. 

HEROES NOW SAIL FREE, FIRST AND ALWAYS

Military, Veterans, First Responders, Law Enforcement, Educators, Heathcare Workers, and all eligible parties under the GovX membership program now receive the following benefits on all Margaritaville at Sea ships, including the all-new Islander, sailing from Port Tampa Bay to Key West and Mexico beginning June 2024.

HEROES SAIL FREE & FIRST (UPDATED FEBRUARY 3, 2024):

• All benefits apply on the all-new Islander or on the Paradise, sailing from Palm Beach to Grand Bahama Island
• Heroes can book unlimited sailings each year under the Heroes Sail Free, Heroes Sail First program
• Heroes receive a free fare or better, if the prevailing retail offer is a higher value
• For a limited time, Heroes AND 3rd and 4th Guests Sail FREE
• Heroes Sail Free and First reservations receive 1 Free Express Pass per cabin
• Free Express Pass includes priority boarding, priority debarkation at destination ports, and priority luggage delivery
• Plus, 2 Complimentary Welcome Drinks per Cabin (up to $15 value each)

Program Details

• Must be a verified member through GovX or ShopVCS platform
• Heroes Sail Free staterooms must be booked online after member verification
• Must be sailing with at least one paying guest in the same stateroom
• Blackout dates may apply based on available stateroom inventory

Taxes, Fees, Port Expenses, Gratuities and Onboard Charges not included. 

Please visit the GovX site for more details on GovX membership eligibility.

THE BEST CRUISE DEAL OF 2024

Escape to the crystalline blue waters of the Bahamas—again and again—with the Margaritaville at Sea Ultimate Paradise Pass. The first, and only, cruise deal of its kind, you’ll enjoy year-round access to all the relaxation of Margaritaville at Sea as you set sail to the tropical island paradise of Grand Bahama Island. See important Terms and Conditions below.

For a limited time, lock in your Ultimate Paradise Pass for just $999 per pass. From there, get ready to experience the Margaritaville State of Mind all year long. Sip on poolside cocktails, try your luck at the Margaritaville Casino, or experience the magic of the Bahamas with exciting shore excursions. 

Did we mention each Ultimate Paradise Pass allows you to cruise with a friend for FREE (taxes, fees, and port expenses not included)?

Experience Limitless Paradise for $999

Say goodbye to days spent daydreaming about your next vacation. Here’s how the Margaritaville at Sea Ultimate Paradise Pass works: 

• Book NOW and enjoy 2 extra months of limitless sailings - Passes are valid starting November 3, 2023!
• Unlimited non-consecutive 2-night sailings thru December 31, 2024
• Valid for Double Occupancy—bring a friend for free
• Must book 24-72 hours before departure
• Best available Ocean View or Inside Stateroom—assigned at terminal check-in
• Does not include taxes, fees, port expenses, gratuities, fuel surcharges, or onboard expenses
• Ultimate Paradise Passes are limited and while supplies last
• Pass Blackout dates: Nov 23, 2023; Dec 31, 2023; May 25, 2024; Aug 30, 2024; and Dec 31, 2024.

GET THE PASS

BUY ONE, GET ONE FREE

DOUBLE THE FUN FARES

BOOK NOW

Warm up your winter in the Western Caribbean and Mexico! Buy one, get one FREE on Margaritaville at Sea and soak in the savings. With two distinctive floating resorts and excursions to meet every desire, you can chart your perfect course with your favorite plus one.

NOW AVAILABLE ON THE ALL-NEW ISLANDER, SAILING SUMMER 2024

We’re making waves with BOGO deals on the all-new Margaritaville at Sea Islander. Book your cruise for 2 from $149 per person and set sail from Port Tampa Bay to Key West and Mexico. With live music on deck, a dozen dining options, and epic excursions at each port of call, there’s always an adventure on the horizon.

Save up to $1,500 and treat yourself to a Grand Terrace Corner Suite, Grand Terrance Suite or Junior Suite and enjoy upgraded amenities like nightly dining in the Islander Dining Room, priority boarding, complimentary in-room water, and more!

BUY ONE, GET ONE FREE DETAILS

Here today, gone in a flash! Book Margaritaville at Sea’s Buy One, Get One Free sale today to get our fan-favorite BOGO fares including:  

• 2nd Guest Sails Free 
• Cruises for 2 to The Bahamas for $99 
• Cruises for to Mexico and Key West aboard the all-new Islander for $149 per person
• Reduced deposits on all Islander cruises for a limited time

CRUISE FOR TWO, PAY FOR ONE

Job Opportunities

Tropical Shipping

Marine Engineering Director

Marine Engineering Manager

Marine Fabricator Welder

Marine Mechanic

Apply Here 

Or Contact Human Resources to set up an interview today at careers@tropical.com

Heavy Lift Services/ Gulfstream Line 

Forklift Operators

Truck drivers      
                
Please contact President Glen Dias at glen@gulfstreamline.com or Vice President Tina Dias at tina@gulfstreamline.com 

Learn about Heavy Lift Services

SSI Petroleum

Fuel Dispatcher I (Riviera Beach)

Transport/ Tank Wagon Drivers (Belle Glade, Riviera Beach and Fort Lauderdale)

Please contact Human Resources Manager Vivian Prescott by phone at 863-508-1406 or email vprescott@ssipetro.com.

About SSI Petroleum 

Palm Beach Parking

Southeast Hay Distributors 

Warehouse/ Forklift Operator

Semi-truck CDL Driver

Email resumes to sadams@southeasthay.com 

Other Port-related jobs

Terminal Operator- South Florida Materials

Construction Laborer- Ranger Construction

Water Truck Driver- Ranger Construction

Crane Operator- Murray Logan Construction

February Work Anniversaries For 

Port Employees 

Congratulations to the following employee who is celebrating a work anniversary:

Security Officer Federico Valverde- 8 years (February 1)

Upcoming Commission Meetings

You're invited to attend our Board of Commissioners meetings.  

• February 15
• March 21
• April 18

View agendas and minutes 

Listen To Board Meetings Online

Audio recordings of the Board of Commissioners Meetings are now accessible on the "Agenda Center." We have removed the webpage "Board Meeting Audio Recordings" from our website.

How to listen to meeting recordings?

1. Go to Agenda center
2. Scroll down to "Available Archives." Locate the meeting you want to listen to and click on "Video" link adjacent to the "Agenda packet" link.

Please note, audio recordings of meetings prior to October 19, 2023, will only be available on the Port's YouTube channel. 

If you need assistance or have any questions, please email District Clerk Jackelin Machado.

Port of Palm Beach administrative offices will be closed Monday, February 19, 2024 in observance of Presidents Day.

We will resume regular business hours Tuesday, February 20, 2024 at 8:30 AM.

For immediate assistance, cal the Main Security Gate at 561-383-4144.

Download the "Connect PBC" app.