The technology’s AI-powered, high-throughput screening promises a leap forward in service, efficiency, safety and guest satisfaction.

Evolv Express capability compared to conventional walk-through metal detector and manual bag checkIMAGE: EVOLV TECHNOLOGY
Miami-based Cruiseport Destinations Security became the cruise industry’s exclusive authorized provider of Evolv Technology, which provides cutting-edge security screening at high-volume venues such as sports stadiums and amusement parks.
10 times faster
Imagine screening at cruise terminals and destinations without the need to remove items from pockets or carry-ons, making the process 10 times faster and more customer-friendly — but safer, too, thanks to the power of AI.
Evolv Technology will be a ‘game-changer for the cruise industry,’ predicted Jorge Roig, president of Cruiseport Destinations Security and a highly experienced US Customs and Border Protection veteran. After a thorough review of the available technologies, Roig considers Evolv’s ‘the top tier.’
Recently a competitor upgraded its existing equipment with an AI software component. That’s great, Roig said, adding Evolv goes further by enabling high-volume throughput that’s critical to smooth cruise operations.
Walk through without emptying pockets
Evolv Express lets people walk through a detector at a normal pace, without having to pause and empty pockets of keys, wallets, cellphones and coins, or remove belts. Even a handbag, beach bag or small backpack may be carried. And adults can go through holding a child’s hand.
Unlike conventional metal detection systems, Evolv’s AI components can distinguish objects like keys and cellphones from guns and knives. And with machine learning, over time the systems improve to cut down on ‘nuisance’ alerts (false alarms).
Detects weapons, not keys
Instead of alerting to any metal, the technology is designed to detect concealed weapons with a high degree of accuracy, and uses a green light/red light system to alert security personnel. When a threat is detected, the system identifies the precise area for the screener to zero in on — no need to perform a time-consuming and invasive full-body pat-down or use a hand wand.
A separate baggage screening device, Evolv Expedite, allows passengers to drop larger items on the X-ray belt without having to remove laptop computers. If a threat is detected, a red light goes on, the conveyor belt automatically stops and the system pinpoints exactly where the suspect item is located — there’s no need to search through an entire bag.
Just one system or both can be deployed, making security screening much faster, speeding embarkation at cruise terminals and at destinations such as private islands and tender ports where bottlenecks often occur.
High throughput
The technology will provide a ‘huge benefit with bigger ships,’ according to Jeannette Pineiro, whose Cruiseport Destinations is an established South Florida ground handler. Her teams are adept at checking in passengers averaging 450 every 15 minutes, but then delays in security screening can cause backups.
Cruiseport Destinations CEO Jeannette Pineiro with Cruiseport Destinations Security President Jorge Roig PHOTO: CRUISEPORT DESTINATIONS
Just as facial recognition technology has become standard in many cruise port operations, Pineiro believes the Evolv systems will become widespread, giving another leap forward in service and efficiency.
The most important thing for her, though, is improving guest satisfaction, and easing the security screening process for cruisers will do just that.
‘This is the way of the future,’ Pineiro said.
Tracking and analysis
Evolv Technology provides ‘incredible tracking capabilities’ as well, according to Roig. Video is incorporated, so if an individual comes through with what appears to be a weapon, the interaction is captured and can be saved for future reference and analysis.
Stored images and statistics are used to help Evolv improve algorithms. After a red alert triggers further screening, the operator pushes a button to record whether it turned out to be a nuisance alarm or a weapon. By collecting this data, Evolv can adjust algorithms to improve.
It’s also possible to integrate facial recognition technology.
Easing the burden on screeners
The Evolv equipment is portable and can be moved on a collapsible trolley. Large monitors for screening are replaced by tablets.
Current X-ray bag scanners require trained personnel and thorough reviews of images, placing a substantial burden on screeners and slowing down the screening process. With Evolv Expedite baggage screening, AI enhances detection capabilities, reducing the need for continuous manual monitoring. Although specialized training and certification are still necessary, the system streamlines the process and improves overall screening efficiency.
If a threat is detected, the screen turns red and the conveyor belt stops. The connected tablet displays a box that locates the item and provides further X-ray detail.
Cost-benefit analysis
Roig said Evolv Technology’s solutions are a little more expensive than the best conventional metal detection systems but weighed that against the potential to reduce manpower 50%, saving money. Coupling that with other benefits — higher throughput, improved processes and, ultimately, customer service — mitigates the cost.
He also noted the software is continuously updated to stay current with new threats.
Cruiseport Destinations Security structured a subscription-type fee model. ‘We will work with the carrier to tailor a product cost that works for them,’ Roig said.
Tom Spina, VP business development for Cruiseport Destinations, said the company is talking with a South Florida port about a demonstration for cruise line executives in the near future.
And it plans to show how the systems work in partnership with Evolv Technology at the Seatrade Cruise Global exhibition in April.