Port of Palm Beach Celebrates 49 Years of Tax-Free Commitment for Local Residents

In a move that underscores their commitment to the community, Port of Palm Beach Commissioners unanimously voted NOT to levy taxes for the 49th consecutive year. This decision means that residents living within the special-taxing district will continue to benefit from a port tax-free environment, providing significant financial relief to local taxpayers.

Since 1975, the Port has managed to maintain operational efficiency and generate revenue through business activities at the Port rather than through taxation.

“This proactive approach not only fosters economic growth, but also enhances the quality of life for those who call the district home,” said Chairman Wayne Richards.

Margaritaville at Sea Starts 3-Night Weekend Sailings

When two-night voyages just aren't long enough, enjoy Saturdays at Sea with three-night itineraries to The Bahamas aboard Paradise!

Margaritaville at Sea cruise passengers now have the option to take a 3-night weekend sailing from the Port of Palm Beach.

Departing on Fridays and returning Monday mornings, these extended weekend getaways offer the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. Whether you are soaking up the sun, sipping on a margarita, or engaging in theme night activities, this extra day at sea is your ticket to paradise. 

Port of Palm Beach Hosts United States Coast Guard Commissioning Ceremony for Marine Safety Unit Lake Worth

Lt. Giacomo Terrizzi III assumed command of the newly established U.S. Coast Guard Marine Safety Unit Lake Worth, on Friday, July 19th, as the unit's first commanding officer during an assumption of command ceremony held at the Port of Palm Beach cruise terminal.

The Port of Palm Beach was honored to host the commissioning ceremony celebrating Lt. Terrizzi's new appointment and the expansion of this vital unit. This significant development will enhance safety and security for our Port tenants and the entire community.

“The change from a marine safety detachment to an MSU in Lake Worth will bring more Coast Guard resources to the area," said Terrizzi. "The expansion in authority demonstrates our service's dedication to the surrounding maritime community as the area continues to expand and evolve."

Port Commissioner Vice Chair Dr. Deandre Poole, Dr. Jean L. Enright and Port Executive Michael Meekins congratulated Lt. Terrizzi following the ceremony. 

“We committed to hosting this event because we recognize the critical work the USCG does in ensuring the safety and security of our ports and waterways,” Meekins said. 

United States Customs and Border Protection Director David Scroggins attended the ceremony to show the agency's strong support and appreciation for their partnership. 

Riviera Beach Police Chief Coleman and two of his officers also came out to congratulate Lt. Terrizzi and his unit. 

Business Development Board President Visits Port

We were grateful to welcome Business Development Board of Palm Beach County President & CEO Kelly Smallridge to the port to discuss our future. During the meeting, Port Commissioner Varisa Lall Dass, a member of the BDB Board of Directors, shared valuable insights about the businesses operating at the port and the opportunities for cargo growth with Smallridge and her team.

Board Approves Proposed Tariffs

During the July Board Meeting, Commissioners passed the proposed tariff, which is set to take effect on October 1st. This decision comes after thorough discussions and considerations of the port's operational needs, market demands and feedback from tenants who attended the public hearings.

View Tariff #24-C and Freight Rail Tariff

Cargo Tonnage Report

                                              Actual              Prior Year Actual

Rail Cars                                       10,168             11,100

TEUs                                            194,467           209,888

Break-bulk                                     129,591          125,164

Asphalt                                          89,763             68,579

Cement                                          140,384           51,478

Recyclable Steel                            38,070             41,364

Molasses                                       174,957            81,387

Raw Sugar                                     452,716           417,000

Donta Smith Promoted to Facilities Foreman

Our new Facilities Foreman is a familiar face. 

Donta Smith, who has been part of the Port of Palm Beach maintenance team for three years, is bringing a wealth of experience and dedication to his new role. 

Donta's decision to apply for the Facilities Foreman position was driven by his confidence in his abilities and his alignment with the port's leadership team.

"I see and understand the vision and the direction that our executive Director Michael Meekins is taking the Port of Palm Beach and I want to be a part of helping complete that vision," Donta said.

With 15 and a half years of federal law enforcement experience, primarily in aviation, Donta's career was inspired by the events of 9/11.

His prior service also includes eight years with the Palm Beach County Parks & Recreation Division, where he held various positions, including in the role of North County Division Crew Chief.

Outside of his professional life, Donta has been married to his wife, April Smith, for 29 years. April has been a devoted travel nurse for over 12 years, reflecting the family's commitment to service. They have a 25-year-old son, Tyrell Smith, who graduated from Northwestern University with a bachelor's degree in criminal justice and recently completed fire academy training. Tyrell aspires to join the Palm Beach County Fire Rescue team, continuing the family's legacy of dedication to community service.

Port tenants CEMEX, Heavy Lift Services, and Ozinga Give Back to Local Teachers

The Port of Palm Beach is proud to announce the success of its Second Annual Sponsor a Teacher's Classroom School Supply Drive, aimed at supporting local educators in Riviera Beach. 

On Monday, August 5th, the Port's Public Information Officer Yaremi Farinas, Human Resources Manager Raquel Rivera, Heavy Lift Services/ Gulfstream Line's Vice President Tina Dias, CEMEX, Terminal Manager Matt Horne, and Lead Operator Charles De Armas delivered an impressive collection of school supplies to four local schools: Washington, Lincoln, Grove, and Dr. Mary McLeod Elementary Schools. This initiative underscores the Port’s commitment to enhancing educational resources for teachers and students alike.

Many teachers often face the financial burden of purchasing classroom supplies out of their own pockets. The donations collected during this drive are designed to alleviate some of that burden and to show appreciation for the hard work teachers do every day.

The Port of Palm Beach would also like to extend its heartfelt gratitude to Ozinga for their generous donation to this cause.

Summer Interns Explore Different 

Port Operations

Commissioners Honor Interns with Certificates of Completion 

During the July Board Meeting, our Port Commissioners and Executive Director Michael Meekins presented the students with a certificate of completion. The interns spent eight weeks working in varies administrative departments at the Port.

The great thing about interning with the Port of Palm Beach is our staff will continue to be their mentors even after the students complete the program.

Celebrating the Success of Our 

Former Interns

On the last day of the internship program, we invited our former interns from last year’s program to join us at a cookout hosted by CEMEX; four of them participated.

 Alex, who interned with the communications and planning departments, just completed a 12- week internship with Orangetheory, she took the LSAT’s and is entering her senior year at Cornell University. 

Paula, who interned with IT, is working as the project manager for a company called Site Stacker. 

Taylor, who interned with the finance department, is entering her second year at FAMU and playing in the marching band. 

Lastly, we caught up with Nestor, who interned with administration. He has maintained a 3.7 GPA at Carnegie Mellon University.

Port of Palm Beach Seafarers' Center offers New Service to Agents

Agents in need of ice for their ship crews can now save trips to the store by purchasing ice bags from the Port of Palm Beach Seafarers' Center. The new ice purchasing service is intended to better serve the hardworking mariners and their agents. 

For more information or to place an order call the Seafarers' Center at 561-480-4806 or 954-907-2263. You can also email the nonprofit at contact@palmbeachseafarerscenter.org. 

Tropical Shipping Announced as Main Sponsor for Caribbean Tourism Organization 2024 Regional Tourism Youth Congress in the Cayman Islands 

Click here to read article 

A Message from the 

Palm Beach Propeller Club 

The Palm Beach Propeller Club invites everyone in the Port community to come out and join them on Wednesday, Septmeber 11 for their next social event. 

Those interested in becoming a member are welcome to attend and learn about the organization's mission. 

The location for the social will be posted on the club's website palmbeachpropellerclub.com.

For more information email the club at propellerclubofpalmbeach@gmail.com.

Social Media Buzz

Margaritaville At Sea News and Promotions

Three Sail Free Sale

Our Best Sale of The Year is Back!

Our most talked-about sale of the year is back, for a very limited time.

Bring your besties on new 3-Night Weekends and 4-Night Sailings from Palm Beach to Key West and The Bahamas. Or, island hop around the Caribbean on 7-night voyages from Tampa on the all-new Islander. Bring your kids, your parents, your friends or your best crew - whomever you bring along, bring them all for free.

This Deal is as easy as 1 - 2 - 3!

• Booking a double occupancy stateroom? Get one guest free!
• Booking a triple stateroom? Two guests come free!!
• Bringing along the whole crew in a room for 4? Bring all three guests for free!!!

THREE SAIL FREE SALE DETAILS 

• 2nd, 3rd and 4th guests all sail for $0 cruise fare
• Taxes, fees and port expenses are extra, assessed per person, based on itinerary and due at the time of booking
• Discount applies to 2nd, 3rd and 4th guests sailing in a single stateroom
• Not all stateroom categories accommodate 3 and 4 guests in a single stateroom; the number of available $0 guest fares is limited by the maximum number of guests a stateroom can accommodate in the desired stateroom category
• Get 0% Financing through Uplift for a limited time

Blink, and you'll miss your chance to snag this incredible deal again!

BOOK NOW

COLLEGE STUDENT DISCOUNTS

Call your friends and pack your bags for the ultimate trip to paradise. Our latest partnership with XNow allows you to bring your entire crew aboard Margaritaville at Sea and enjoy exclusive vacation savings. As an XNow member, enjoy exclusive cruise discounts for college students and millennials.

DISCOUNTS FOR COLLEGE STUDENTS

Save up to $1,600 while you soak up endless entertainment options, tropical cocktails, unforgettable Bahamas activities, adventures to the Gulf, and much more—Margaritaville at Sea is your perfect choice for a cruise getaway with friends. Dare we say this will be your best friendcation, girls getaway, or college spring break yet?

XNOW MEMBERS EXCLUSIVELY ENJOY:

• Sailing on the all-new Islander sailing from Port Tampa Bay or on the Paradise sailing from Port of Palm Beach
• Unlimited benefits-packed savings per year
• All the benefits of the prevailing retail offer 
• Plus, a $25 onboard credit per person

Program Details: 

1. Must be a verified member through XNow
2. XNow staterooms must be booked online after member verification
3. Must be sailing with at least one paying guest in the same stateroom (benefits apply to double-occupancy staterooms only)
4. Blackout dates may apply based on available stateroom inventory

          XNow Millennials - Claim Your Cruise Offer Here!

ultimate staycation

For the first time ever, Margaritaville at Sea is partnering with Margaritaville Resort Orlando to create the Ultimate Land and Sea Florida Staycation. If you aren’t quite ready to leave Margaritaville, then this offer is just for you!

Arrive early or stay late when you add a 2-night resort stay to your cruise to the Bahamas. Slow down, soak up the sunshine, and bask in the Margaritaville State of Mind with this one-of-a-kind cruise deal.

2-NIGHT RESORT STAY IN ORLANDO

Extend your stay with Margaritaville Resort Orlando and take advantage of the exciting on-site amenities and exceptional location. Make a splash at the Fins Up Beach Club just steps away from your room, indulge in relaxation at St. Somewhere Spa, or catch some live music at Euphoria Lounge. Plus, don’t forget to explore the surrounding area attractions, including Island H20 Water Park, the Promenade at Sunset Walk, and much more.

LAND + SEA STAYCATION PACKAGE DETAILS

Packages start at just $399* per person. Call a Margaritaville at Sea vacation specialist to reserve the Land + Sea Staycation cruise deal.

Land + Sea Staycation Packages include 2-night double occupancy standard hotel accommodations at Margaritaville Resort Orlando, hotel taxes and resort fee. Plus, a cruise getaway on Margaritaville at Sea Paradise* from the Port of Palm Beach to Grand Bahama Island.

Packages do not include transfers between the Port of Palm Beach and Margaritaville Resort Orlando (or vice-versa), and guests are responsible for their own transportation between properties.

*Rates quoted are per person, based on double-occupancy inside stateroom and do not include Margaritaville at Sea cruise taxes, fees and port expenses ($94.40pp due at time of booking).

Learn more about Margaritaville Resort Orlando.

SOLO TRAVELERS

Welcome to your easy getaway for one, where your escape to Paradise is all yours to savor. Book an inside stateroom starting at just $169, plus taxes, fees and port expenses, when you sail Sunday through Thursday on a easy-breezy getaway to Grand Bahama Island. Explore the newly refreshed Margaritaville at Sea Paradise, where you can say hello to Paradise Pickleball, sing your heart out at Keys on the Water and come away amazed at Caribbean Heat - all-new experiences to discover starting June 2, 2023.

Make the most out of Paradise by adding a Solo License to Chill package, designed just for you.

BOOK YOUR NEXT CRUISE HERE

Job Opportunities

Palm Beach Parking

Heavy Lift Services 

Jockey/Yard Truck Operator

Email Glen Dias at glen@gulfstreamline.com or Tina Dias at tina@gulfstreamline.com

Tropical Shipping

Contact Human Resources to set up your interview today at: apernsteiner@tropical.com or lvelez@tropical.com 

CEMEX

Terminal Operator

Supervisor Block Plant 

Leadman Block

Driver Ready Mix

Welder

View more career opportunities here

SSI Petroleum

Fuel Dispatcher-Riviera Beach

Tank Wagon and Transport CDL Drivers-Fort Lauderdale

Mechanic Assistant-Belle Glade

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

About SSI Petroleum 

E.N. Bisso & Son, Inc.

Service Technician/ Marine Engineer

Upcoming Commission Meetings

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

• August 15 (following Budget Workshop)
• September 19
• October 17

View agendas and minutes 

August Work Anniversaries For 

Port Employees 

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

Security Officer Austin Doiron- 2 years (August 2)

Security Officer Bassam Gaballa- 6 years (August 9)

Janitorial Worker Thania Walter- 2 years (August 15)

District Clerk/Senior Manager of Administration Jackelin Machado- 20 Years (August 19)

Director of Operations & Security Rick Placeres- 

9 years (August 20)

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.

The Port of Palm Beach administrative offices will be closed Monday, September 2nd in observance of Labor Day. 

We will resume regular business hours Tuesday, September 3rd at 8:30 a.m.

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