Port Canaveral Inner Harbor Re-opens; Ship Channel Remains Closed

Small vessels were permitted through the Canaveral Lock and Barge Canal to re-enter Port Canaveral. However, the channel remains closed to ship traffic pending completion of harbor surveys and repositioning of navigational aids. Assessments show several buoys out of alignment and some additional shoaling at the entrance to the channel. Dredge operations are expected to resume Tuesday morning, subject to wind and wave conditions. The project to restore the channel depth nearly was complete before Hurricane Jeanne caused additional shoaling. "These certainly have been trying times for all of us, but as in the aftermath of Frances," says Stan Payne, Chief Executive Officer of the Canaveral Port Authority. "The U.S. Coast Guard, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Canaveral Pilots Association, and the Port Authority are working together with us for a quick and safe re-opening of the harbor." Repairs also began today on some cruise terminal facilities that received minor water and roof damage. Power also has been fully restored throughout the Port. The busing of cruise passengers from Port Canaveral to South Florida ports is expected to continue tomorrow because of the Port’s closure to ship traffic. The process today went smoothly and without any major problems. Passengers should direct questions to the individual cruise lines.