Port Miami recently marked a significant milestone with the official opening of MSC Cruises’ impressive four-story, 490,000-square-foot Terminal AA on April 5, 2025.
This monumental addition to the port’s infrastructure not only enhances operational capacity but also introduces a truly innovative and visually captivating element through the integration of one of the world’s largest transparent displays.
Central to this cutting-edge feature is the significant contribution from Gauzy, a leader in smart glass technology. Gauzy supplied over 11,000 square feet of exterior-grade grey polymer-dispersed liquid crystal adhesive smart film, seamlessly integrated into an impressive 75% of the terminal’s glass façade. This strategic application allows the terminal’s exterior to transform and adapt, offering a dynamic experience for visitors.
According to Gauzy CEO, Eyal Peso, the project represents a powerful demonstration of the potential for smart glass technologies in enhancing built environments, particularly within the travel sector. “We’re thrilled to work with MSC and Fincantieri Infrastructure, world leaders and amongst the largest players in the cruise industry, to bring this unique, interactive experience to life in Miami,” says Peso. “This project serves as a stage to show how built spaces, especially in travel, can be enhanced with Gauzy’s smart glass technologies.” 
The practical application of this smart film technology is both elegant and functional. During daylight hours, the glass façade maintains its transparency, allowing abundant natural light to flood the terminal and offering unobstructed views of the stunning Biscayne Bay. As night falls, the façade undergoes a remarkable transformation, becoming an expansive digital art display. This captivating visual spectacle, created by artist Danielle Roney, is not merely static imagery. It draws real-time data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), incorporating elements like tides, currents, and weather patterns to generate a dynamic and ever-changing animation of the marine environment.
This ambitious project, designed by Miami’s Arquitectonica and built by Fincantieri, represents a substantial investment of approximately $450 million and has been under construction since 2022. The new terminal is set to become the homeport for MSC Cruises’ newest vessel, the nearly 500,000-square-foot MSC World America.
The opening of Terminal AA at Port Miami signifies more than just increased capacity; it represents a forward-thinking approach to terminal design, blending operational efficiency with cutting-edge technology to create a truly memorable and engaging experience for cruise passengers and visitors alike. The integration of Gauzy’s smart film technology sets a new standard for port infrastructure and underscores the growing importance of innovative solutions in shaping the future of the travel industry.
Source: MSC with additional information added by GlassBalkan
