Seafarer Ministry of Miami Brings Joy and Care to Thousands of Crew Members with Beautification Project and Ship Visits

Miami, FL – February 6–7, 2026 – The International Seafarer Ministry of Miami recently hosted a day of service and outreach at Port Miami, bringing encouragement, hospitality, and joy to seafarers. The event included a major beautification project at the ministry campus on Friday and visits aboard Royal Caribbean ships on Saturday, providing crew members with much-needed care and a reminder that they are valued and appreciated.

On that day, according to general port traffic estimates, approximately 45,000 passengers arrived at PortMiami, along with more than 15,000 crew members serving aboard nine cruise ships docked across multiple terminals. These figures reflect overall port activity for that particularly busy day. Amid this significant influx of travelers and seafarers, the ministry was able to make a meaningful impact — personally ministering to approximately 1,200 crew members aboard two ships and serving another 450 seafarers at the ministry campus across from Terminal F, offering care, encouragement, and a welcoming presence.

This effort was made possible through the generous collaboration of Send Relief, Royal Caribbean, Westminster Christian School, Port Miami, and volunteers from numerous churches—including the Chinese Baptist Church of Miami, Riverside Baptist Church, and congregations from Washington D.C., Virginia, and beyond. The day was further supported by faithful partnerships with the Miami Baptist Association and the Florida Baptist Convention, demonstrating the power of community united in service to seafarers.

During the beautification project at the ministry campus, volunteers refreshed and enhanced the environment to create a welcoming space for seafarers. The project included landscaping, cleaning, and upgrades to hospitality areas, ensuring the campus remains a safe, comfortable, and inviting place for crew members seeking respite during their time in Miami.

The ministry teams also personally delivered care packages, snacks, and gifts—including Valentine’s cards created by the Middle School students from Westminster Christian School. Crew members, many of whom spend long months away from home, expressed heartfelt gratitude for the ministry’s hospitality and the students’ thoughtful gestures.

“Seafarers dedicate months of their lives to ensuring that passengers enjoy safe and memorable voyages, often far from family and home,” said Pastor Julio, director of the International Seafarer Ministry of Miami. “Our goal is to provide a warm welcome, a listening ear, and a safe, comfortable space where they feel valued. This collaboration with Send Relief, Royal Caribbean, Westminster Christian School, Port Miami, local and out-of-state volunteers, and our Baptist partners allowed us to do just that.”

Volunteers and ministry staff also offered internet access, recreation, and other amenities, creating a welcoming environment that helped seafarers relax, connect with loved ones, and experience the care of the local community. Many crew members expressed joy and gratitude, highlighting the positive impact of these ship visits and ministry efforts.

To see the pictures of both day events, please visit our social media page: https://www.facebook.com/ISMmiami

ABOUT THE INTERNATIONAL SEAFARER MINISTRY OF MIAMI:

The ministry provides care, encouragement, and hospitality to seafarers visiting Miami, offering a “home away from home” through programs, ship visits, and a welcoming hospitality center. The ministry relies on volunteers, donations, and partnerships to serve seafarers from around the world. To donate or get involved, visit www.ismportmiami.org/give or contact Dr. Julio Salas at 305-390-7424.

This partnership demonstrates the power of community, faith, and service in making a tangible difference in the lives of seafarers, who are often the unseen workforce behind the cruise industry. The International Seafarer Ministry of Miami plans to continue regular visits and campus improvements to serve crew members and provide a home away from home.

Our Mission

Our ministry exists to share the love of Jesus Christ by welcoming and caring for the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of international seafarers who pass through South Florida.

Our Vision

Our vision is to be a Christ-centered “Home Away from Home” in South Florida where international seafarers are welcomed, cared for, and pointed to the hope of the gospel—finding rest, love, care, and renewal while far from home.

Strategic Partnerships:

We look to partner with organizations and individuals that believe in our mission and core beliefs. Churches, church planters, businesses, corporate and government organizations are welcome to connect and partner. Email us at hello@ismportmiami.org

ISM Campus Tours: Send us an email to plan a tour of our “International Hospitality Center” ministry campus facility.

Moved to Give? Visit our website: www.ismportmiami.org/give

Write check payable to: International Seafarer Ministry of Miami

Mail it to:

International Seafarer Ministry of Miami

1180 South America Way
Miami, FL 33132