PortMiami Faces Fuel Uncertainty After Depot Sale

PortMiami could soon face a major operational challenge after the recent sale of its main fuel depot, according to a report by WLRN South Florida.

Unlike other major ports, PortMiami does not operate its own fueling facility and instead relies on a privately owned bunker located on nearby Fisher Island. However, that facility was sold in September to the real estate investment firm HRP Group, which plans to redevelop the property — leaving the port at risk of losing its primary fuel source.

As one of the busiest cruise hubs in the world, PortMiami welcomed over 8 million passengers in 2024. The potential loss of its fueling depot sparked concern among Miami-Dade Commissioners during a meeting last Thursday. Officials urged the county to explore options for constructing a new, county-owned fuel facility within the port.

Commissioners warned that cruise lines could reconsider homeporting in Miami if reliable fueling access is disrupted. “There’s a certain tipping point where it costs too much and ships go someplace else. I felt like at the last meeting we were playing with fire. This meeting we’re playing with hell,” Commissioner Oliver said.

The Fisher Island site sold for approximately $180 million earlier this year. According to WLRN, the new owners have agreed not to move forward with any development plans until mediation with the county takes place on October 20.

County officials are considering two main options — acquiring the existing bunker site through eminent domain or developing a new fueling facility on Dodge Island, within the port complex.

Commissioners also criticized the county for not raising the issue earlier, warning that the situation threatens one of Miami-Dade’s key economic engines. “We find ourselves in a situation where we may not be able to provide fuel for the industry that we so say we care about and we cherish. It’s really unfortunate that we find ourselves in this predicament,” Commissioner René Garcia said.