The proposed $2 billion Gold Coast cruise port faces criticism as three-time world surfing champion Mick Fanning joins the fight against the terminal.

Australian company, Leda Holdings plans to build the Ocean Terminal Project near Kirra beach on the southern end of the Gold Coast, The Mercury reported.

Last year the group even received Commonwealth approval for the project.

Fanning spent years surfing in the area and says Kirra has first favourite wave in the world.

“When I heard about the proposed cruise ship terminal, my first thought was we’re going to lose one of the greatest surf destinations on earth,” he explained.

“The more I looked into the proposed development, though, I realised we are at risk of losing so much more than the wave.

As well as creating pollution in the area, Fanning says the terminal would take the public beach away from future generations.

An online petition against the project has been signed by thousands of Gold Coast residents, who say the port will destroy beach and lifestyle in the area.

Locals are even planning a major protest “paddle-out” for 19 January.

However, a proposal for the terminal has not been submitted to the government.

Acting Premier Jeff Seeney said he hadn’t seen a formal proposal but is “very sceptical” about the idea.

“I haven’t had any serious approaches about those off-the-beach type options,” he said.

“I would have to say that I would be very sceptical that those types of options would ever receive the community support or government approval.”