MIAMI — The sale of a privately-owned fuel depot near PortMiami has triggered alarm within Miami-Dade County’s leadership, who say the port’s future as a cruise and cargo hub may be at risk without swift action. At a board meeting on October 9, County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava called the situation “an issue of critical importance,” noting the port’s role as a key economic driver for the region.
Located on Dodge Island, PortMiami relies on a fuel depot on nearby Fisher Island rather than on-site storage. That depot was sold in September to real estate firm HRP Group, placing the port’s fuel supply in limbo.
The Problem: No On-Site Fuel and a Sold Facility
Unlike many major ports, PortMiami does not own its fuel-storage facility. Instead, it uses the Fisher Island site, which holds hundreds of thousands of barrels of fuel. With its sale completed for approximately US $180 million in late September, the port now faces the possibility of losing access to a key service for both cruise ships and cargo vessels.
Industry executives warn that home-porting decisions hinge on reliable fuel and bunkering infrastructure. If access is disrupted, ships may relocate to other ports, costing the region jobs and revenue.
Proposed Solutions and How They Protect the Port
Acquisition of the Fisher Island Site
County officials are pursuing mediation with HRP Group and are prepared to invoke eminent domain if needed to secure the Fisher Island facility. Acquiring the existing infrastructure offers the quickest route to preserving current operations and safeguards against immediate disruption.
Building a New On-Port Fuel Facility
In parallel, the county is evaluating potential sites at PortMiami for a new, county-controlled fuel depot. Mayor Levine Cava acknowledged that while this represents a true “energy independence” solution, logistical constraints—limited acreage, berth availability and high cost—make it a longer-term option.
Securing fuel access enables PortMiami to maintain its competitive edge, retain cruise homeports and protect the broader [Miami-Dade](http://In parallel, the county is evaluating potential sites at PortMiami for a new, county-controlled fuel depot. Mayor Levine Cava acknowledged that while this represents a true “energy independence” solution, logistical constraints—limited acreage, berth availability and high cost—make it a longer-term option.) economy—including tourism, hospitality and logistics. With over 8 million passengers in 2024 and multibillion-dollar economic impact, the stakes are high.
Timeline: When Can Results Be Seen?
In the short term (within 12 – 18 months), acquisition of the Fisher Island facility offers the fastest path to stabilization. Mediation is scheduled for October 20, 2025.
In the medium term (2 – 5 years), preparatory work for a new on-port facility—site selection, environmental review, funding—can proceed.
In the long term (5 – 10 years), full construction and commissioning of a new fuel depot on PortMiami may be achievable, but only if permitted and funded accordingly. One industry source estimates five to ten years before the new facility could be operational.
PortMiami’s fuel supply disruption isn’t merely a technical hiccup—it threatens one of South Florida’s most vital economic engines. The county’s dual-track strategy of securing the existing facility while planning long-term infrastructure positions the port to not only avert crisis but emerge stronger and more resilient. The next few weeks will be decisive as mediation and county reviews unfold.
As Editor in Chief of The Maritime, I lead content development, interviews, and digital storytelling across our multimedia maritime platform. With over 10 years of experience in the maritime industry, I create and publish in-depth stories and video features that highlight key players, emerging trends, and operational realities across global shipping. Before launching The Maritime, I worked as a Vessel Operator at Imza Marine A.S., gaining hands-on commercial shipping and voyage operations experience. I also served as Marketing Communications Specialist at Gimas Ship Supply & Services, where I managed corporate communication, digital strategy, and industry outreach for shipowners and maritime clients. I hold a Master’s degree in Maritime Transportation Management from Istanbul Technical University and a Master’s degree in Publishing from Marmara University. My work is driven by the belief that the maritime world deserves strong, informed, and accessible media representation. I am committed to sharing the stories of maritime professionals and contributing to the sector’s visibility, knowledge exchange, and future development.
