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Port Everglades Welcomes Cruise Passengers with New Mural by Ernesto Maranje
Published on
December 31, 2025
Port Everglades, one of the busiest cruise ports in the United States, has unveiled a stunning new mural, Plumage Passage, designed by renowned Miami-based Cuban-American artist Ernesto Maranje. This new masterpiece, painted on the 12-story Harbormaster Tower, depicts the beauty of Greater Fort Lauderdale’s native birds, featuring the great blue heron and roseate spoonbill. These species, emblematic of the region’s vibrant wildlife, symbolise both the natural beauty of the area and the spirit of the destination itself.
The mural adds to Port Everglades’ already impressive collection of more than 40 public art installations, most of which have been commissioned through the Broward County Cultural Division. The port’s ongoing dedication to public art enriches the experience of millions of cruise passengers who pass through this major gateway each year, adding a cultural layer to the journey before they even set foot on the island.
Celebrating Art and Nature at Port Everglades
The Plumage Passage mural is the second artwork Maranje has completed at Port Everglades, following his 2019 mural Avian Odyssey, which also celebrated local birdlife. Maranje’s work is known for its bold use of colour and dynamic compositions, which in this case highlight the interconnectedness between Fort Lauderdale’s natural habitats and its cultural energy. The mural, commissioned by the Broward County Cultural Division, transforms the towering Harbormaster Tower into a visual beacon for cruise visitors, creating an immersive art experience before they embark on their travels.
The mural’s unveiling comes at a significant time as Broward County prepares to celebrate 50 years of public art in 2026. This milestone represents a commitment to integrating art into everyday spaces, enhancing public experiences and bringing creativity into the public realm. The Port Everglades collection is part of this larger vision, with installations placed throughout the port to showcase local talent and contribute to Fort Lauderdale’s identity as an artistic and cultural hub.
Impact of Public Art on Fort Lauderdale Tourism
Public art plays a crucial role in enhancing the travel experience in Fort Lauderdale, particularly for visitors arriving by cruise. As Phillip Dunlap, Director of the Broward County Cultural Division, pointed out, the cruise port serves as the first impression for many visitors, making the integration of bright, welcoming art essential in setting a positive tone for their journey.
With murals like Plumage Passage, Port Everglades has become not only a key transportation hub but also a destination for cultural experiences, with passengers encountering the island’s artistic offerings before even stepping off their ships. The public art collection draws attention from tourists and locals alike, highlighting the region’s artistic vitality and the strong connection between nature, culture, and tourism in Fort Lauderdale.
Port Everglades’ Ongoing Role in Promoting Local Art and Culture
In addition to murals like Plumage Passage, Port Everglades regularly features a wide range of art forms throughout its terminals. From sculptures to interactive installations, these works contribute to the port’s reputation as a cultural destination in its own right. By investing in public art, Broward County ensures that Port Everglades is not just a place of transit but an experience—one that showcases local talent, celebrates Fort Lauderdale’s natural beauty, and promotes the region’s identity as a dynamic cultural destination.
As the port continues to grow and develop, the integration of art and design into its spaces will undoubtedly play an essential role in shaping the experiences of thousands of cruise passengers each year. This makes Port Everglades a more inviting place, not just for arriving visitors, but for the community as well, fostering a connection between travel and local culture that sets it apart from other ports around the world.
Port Everglades’ Art Collection as a Gateway to Greater Fort Lauderdale
With the introduction of Plumage Passage by Ernesto Maranje, Port Everglades continues its legacy as a leader in integrating public art into its operations. The mural, which greets cruise passengers with vibrant depictions of local wildlife, exemplifies how art can enhance the traveller experience and bring the destination to life before visitors even leave the port. As Broward County celebrates 50 years of public art in 2026, the port’s growing collection stands as a testament to the region’s commitment to both creativity and tourism.
For travellers, these art installations offer a unique, culturally enriching experience, blending Fort Lauderdale’s natural beauty with its vibrant arts scene. As Port Everglades prepares for the next chapter in its artistic journey, this mural reminds all visitors that they are not just entering a transportation hub, but an artistic gateway to the heart of South Florida.
