cruise ship port everglades fort lauderdale

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Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades, Florida)

Cruise port schedule, live map, terminals, news.

Region Bahamas - Caribbean - Bermuda

Local Time 2024-04-24 16:29

Port Fort Lauderdale cruise ship schedule shows timetable calendars of all arrival and departure dates by month. The port's schedule lists all ships (in links) with cruises going to or leaving from Fort Lauderdale, Port Everglades, Florida. To see the full itineraries (ports of call dates and arrival / departure times) and their lowest rates – just follow the corresponding ship-link.

Port Everglades (Fort Lauderdale's cruise port) is a major seaport in Broward County (Florida USA), and currently ranked the world's 3rd-largest cruise port - after PortMiami and Port Canaveral . Port Everglades (locode USFLL) is one of Florida's largest economic hubs and South Florida's gateway for both international cargo- and passenger/cruise shipping traffic.

Annually, the port handles 4000+ vessels (passenger, bulk cargo, container ships), cargo tonnage 25,3+ million tons, TEU-containers 7,2+ million, passengers 3,86+ million. Port's annual revenue is ~USD 170 million, Net income ~USD 75 million, business activities ~USD 30 billion.

Port Everglades is one of the USA's main cruise departure (turnaround) ports for Caribbean roundtrip itineraries. Fort Lauderdale is approx 50 km (30 mi) from Miami .

Since 2011, the cruiseferry company BALEARIA Caribbean provides daily crossings from Fort Lauderdale to Freeport (Grand Bahama Island) . In August 2019, the company started a fast-ferry service from Fort Lauderdale to Bimini Island Bahamas (crossing time ~2 hours). The fat-ferry (catamaran ship) has passenger capacity 650, max speed 38 knots (70 kph / 44 mph) and offers 5 weekly crossings with departures on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.

Port Everglades cruise port

Port Everglades' cruise ship tourism-related operations have a total annual economic value of nearly USD 30 billion. It is accounted for approx 160,000 jobs (port-related businesses), including ~11,400 jobs in companies directly providing services to the port. On average, each cruise vessel generates approx USD 2,2 million in revenue for local businesses.

Port Everglades is South Florida's main seaport for importing, storage and distribution of petroleum products and alternative fuels. The waterway's depth is 43 ft (13 m), ranking it USA's deepest seaport on the Atlantic coast (south of Norfolk VA , not on the US East Coast in general).

Cruise port's statistics for season 2014-2015 showed that:

• approx 50% of all cruise ship passengers/pax were East Coast USA residents. Most international passengers were flying from Toronto, Canada .
• 62% of all cruise tourists stayed in South Florida hotels overnight (prior departure), 21% stayed overnight after the voyage, 46% stayed in Fort Lauderdale hotels.
• 51% of all pax had Fort Lauderdale hotel booked (prior departure).
• 21% of all pax arrived from Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, which is conveniently located next the cruise port.
• 31% of all pax booked cruises online (through port's website).
• 63% of all pax flying in Ft Lauderdale booked cruises separately from airfare.
• The average age of once-a-year cruising tourists was 55-64 yo, twice-a-year ones were 65-74 yo.

In 2014, the seaport generated USD 28+ billion and was accounted for over 224,000 jobs throughout Florida. In 2015, the cruise port was ranked world's 3rd busiest for handling 877 ship calls and over 3,4 million passengers. In 2016, Port Everglades handled almost 3,9 million passengers served by 9 different cruise lines with a total of 39 different vessels.

Among cruise port's new technology implementations are new CBP programs (US Customs and Border Protection), including the "Global Entry" program (allowing expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travelers upon arrival in the USA) and MPC (Mobile Passport Control, authorized smartphone app to expedite travelers entry process into the USA). Port Everglades is the ever first seaport offering this app. Travelers can use the MPC app to provide biographic info prior to speaking with Customs officers. Since summer 2015, the port gives preferential processing to cruise passengers with Global Entry cards.

In 2016, the cruise port completed pilot testing of APC kiosks (abbrev "Automated Passport Control") in 2 terminals. This is yet another CBP initiative to fasten the passenger inspection process. In 2017, port's "Navigation Improvements Project" received federal authorization for the US Army Corps of Engineers to dredge (deepen and widen) its navigational channels The project is anticipated to create around 2200 construction jobs plus around 1500 permanent local jobs as result of the increased cargo shipping traffic.

On November 4, 2016, world's largest cruise ships ( Royal Caribbean 's Oasis-class vessels Allure , Oasis and Harmony ) came together off Port Everglades for the first time. Carrying together over 16,000 passengers, the three liners joined up to celebrate the USA-homeporting of Harmony of the Seas (newest Oasis ship) in Fort Lauderdale. Of the three ships, Harmony was the newest but also the biggest - even though by only 1 ft (30 cm) and 1700 tons. Harmony OTS was finishing her inaugural Transatlantic repositioning crossing.

During season 2016-17, the world's top-three largest cruise homeports/turnaround ports handled the following numbers of passengers - PortMiami (4,98M), Port Canaveral (4,248M), Port Everglades (3,826M).

Following President Trump's executive order on immigration, in the end of January 2017 Port Everglades officials reported cruise tourists being detained by US Customs and Border Protection. All detainees had to provide background info about them, their families and also their past life in their native countries. The new President's order was signed on Jan 27, and included a 90-day ban on travel to the USA by citizens of Iraq, Syria, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Somalia and Yemen.

Starting December 22, 2017 (through April 2018), HAL Holland America Line ( Carnival Corporation brand) scheduled cruises to Cuba roundtrip from Port Everglades on MS Veendam . HAL's 7-, 11-12-days long Cuban itineraries from Fort Lauderdale also visited other Caribbean ports. HAL's prices started from USD 900 per person (double occupancy inside cabin rates). Bookings opened on May 26, 2017. The 210-passenger ship Pearl Mist became the ever-first to operate roundtrip Fort Lauderdale to Cuba cruises, with 10-day itineraries (January through April 2017).

For FY2019 (fiscal year) the cruise port handled ~3,892 million tourists (1% increase over FY18). On December 1st, Port Everglades reported a new "One Day World Record" with handled 55964 cruise passengers (arriving and departing). The previous single-day record was also in Port Everglades and reported on March 13, 2016 (55885 passengers).

On March 15, 2022, Broward County and Port Everglades signed a USD 495,000 agreement with FPL (Florida Power & Light Company/1925-founded, the state's largest power utility, subsidiary of NextEra Energy Inc) to explore providing shore-power supply/city-grid electricity to all cruise berths.

• The shoreside-power technology allows the docked vessels to switch off their diesel engines and use the city grid's electricity for all onboard operations and services. By the agreement, FPL will construct a new power substation and distribution facilities/infrastructure upgrades at the cruise port.
• In January 2023 was completed the study (conducted by Moffatt & Nichol/ Long Beach CA -based infrastructure advisory firm) for adding shorepower to Port Everglades' all 8 cruise terminals. The project is a cooperation between FPL and the shipowners (with homeporting operations in Fort Lauderdale) Carnival Corporation, RCG-Royal Caribbean Group, and DCL-Disney Cruise Line.
• The study assessed the Port's existing power grid's capacity, identified the needed infrastructure upgrades and also recommended a plan for installing the required equipment for a total of 16 MW of electricity to be delivered simultaneously to all passenger terminals.

The shore-power project's cost was estimated at ~US$20 million per terminal. The total ~US$160 million investment is expected to be financed through federal and state grants, plus contributions from Broward County , FPL, and the three participating cruise companies. Construction works are scheduled to start in 2024-Q2 and be completed in 2027-Q4.

Port Everglades

As container shipping (cargo) port, in 2013 Port Everglades was ranked Florida's 1st and USA's 10th busiest, handling over 1 million TEUs.

In 2015, the Port received its LEED certification (abbrev "Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design") for Cruise Terminal 4. Following a renovation project, Terminal 4 received major energy-efficient improvements. The features that made the Terminal 4 facility eligible for LEED certification include:

• use of regionally produced materials (within 500 mi / 800 km of the terminal)
• use of recycled asphalt and concrete in construction works
• use of natural light within the building
• use of low VOC products (abbrev "volatile organic compounds") for coating, flooring, paints, adhesives
• low-water usage toilets
• energy-efficient windows, air-conditioning, lighting (inside / outside)

In June 2017, the port invested USD 38,4 million for purchasing 3x container-handling gantry cranes (serving the world's largest Super Post-Panamax container carriers/boxships ) priced USD 13,8 million each. This class of cargo vessels can carry up to 10,500 TEU-containers each. Port Everglades' capacity improvements project was budgeted USD 437,5 million, and included construction of new berths (for larger cargo vessels) and installing a new rail infrastructure for new gantry cranes.

For FY17 (fiscal year 2017 / ending on September 30) Port Everglades reported increased cruise passenger shipping volumes as well as a record year for container shipping volumes.

• In 2017 it handled a total of 1,076893 million TEUs or an increase of 4% over FY16. The last record year was FY15 (1,060507 million TEUs). Petroleum shipping volumes (FY17 over FY16) increased by 1% - from 121,068561 million to 122,267524 million barrels.
• There was also an increase in reefer volumes (refrigerated containers) carrying produce from Central America. This containerized cargo segment represents over 50% of all perishable cargo shipped to Florida. The other major containerized import cargoes are apparel, tiles, beverages, machinery, auto parts.
• The increase in passenger shipping numbers (FY17 over FY16) was 1% as the port handled a total of 3,863662 million pax. Multi-day cruise ship tourists increased by 2% (3,680549 to 3,738252 million pax). Among the largest newcomers in 2017 were the liners Harmony of the Seas ( RCI ) and MS Koningsdam ( HAL ).
• Port's FY17 operating revenue was USD 163 million. The port's total economic value was nearly USD 30 billion, with 222,000+ local (Florida) jobs impacted, of which ~13,000 employed by companies providing direct services to the port.

On May 10, 2018, USCG Cutter James offloaded in Port Everglades approx 6 tons of cocaine (street value USD 180 million) interdicted in international waters in the Pacific Ocean. Drugs were seized by 3 USCG cutters (Bertholf, Bear, James) and from 6 separate drug smuggling ships navigating off Central and South America and Mexico in the period February-April 2018. In June-July were seized over 7 tons of cocaine by cutters Mohawk (3395 kg), Tampa (1363 kg), Venturous (741 kg), Alert (981 kg).

In June 2018, NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) installed an advanced sensor system designed for real-time monitoring of tides, water currents, sea levels and other meteo information at Port Everglades. The new "Port Everglades Physical Oceanographic Real-Time System" provides online data accessible to private boaters and commercial users.

In early-December 2018, Port Everglades and Empresa Nacional Portuaria de Honduras (Honduras Port Authority) signed an MOU as part of the Sister Seaports Program. Honduras is Port Everglades' largest trade partner by shipping volume, including total TEUs. Over USD 2,12 billion worth of goods are annually shipped through the seaport.

In 2020-2025, at Port Everglades will be conducted major infrastructure development works (~USD 1,6 billion) including navigation channels dredging (deepening from 42 to 50 ft / 13 to 15 m) and widening (to allow access to Neo-Panamax ships), building a new facility at USCG Station Fort Lauderdale, building a new cruise parking garage (to serve Terminal 2 and Terminal 4).

• Southport's turning was extended/lengthened from 900 to 2400 ft (274 to 732 m). By the Southport Turning Notch Extension project (USD 471 million) were also added new cargo berths and includes the port's Crane Rail Infrastructure project.
• By the end of 2020 were scheduled for delivery and installation 3x Super Post-Panamax container cranes (ship-to-shore gantry cranes).
• In 2020, at CenterPoint Properties was completed the International Logistics Center (2-building complex sized 17 acres / 6,9 hectares).
• In 2020, cruise ship terminals 2 and 4 received a new parking space (Heron Garage, with capacity 1818 vehicles), elevator banking, an air-conditioned passenger boarding bridge (mobile walkways link to Terminal 2).
• In December 2016 (by the Harbor Navigation Improvement project) the US Army Corps of Engineers deepened and widened the port's shipping channels. In 2020, the US Army Corps of Engineers received federal funding (USD 29,1 billion) to widen the Intracoastal Waterway (USA's Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico coasts).
• Road improvements will reduce traffic congestion. An APM (Automated People Mover) will link directly Port Everglades with Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood Airport and Broward County Convention Center in Fort Lauderdale (1950 Eisenhower Blvd).

On April 26, 2021, DCL-Disney Cruise Line requested the Port to negotiate for homeporting at "Cruise Terminal 4" and the adjacent "Berth 4" to move its operations from Miami to Port Everglades.

• The deal (signed in December) allows DCL to homeport for year-round roundtrips.
• The 15-year agreement (thru 2038) requires DCL to provide a minimum 10,6 million passenger movements. Three optional extensions (5-year each) will add another 11,25 million movements.
• Disney's Terminal 4 design (provided by "Bermello, Ajamil & Partners Inc" (1939-founded, Miami-based) was officially approved by the Broward County Commission on April 5, 2022.

The Port's investment into Disney's "Cruise Terminal 4" was ~US$ 35 million.

The first ship ( Disney Dream ) started year-round homeporting here on November 20, 2023. A second DCL vessel ( Disney Magic )  was scheduled to homeport only seasonally (starting on May 9, 2025). The new Disney terminal was officially opened/inaugurated on November 13th. The ceremony was attended by Sharon Siskie (DCL's Senior VP and General Manager).

Fort Lauderdale cruise terminal

The northern part of Port Everglades is called Northport (with terminals 2 and 4). The cruise port's central area is called Midport (terminals 18, 19, 21, 25, 26, 29). All cruise terminals (8 total) are located in Hollywood Harbor.

Port Everglades's address is "1850 Eller Drive, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33316". Cruise tourists usually arrive via flights to Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood Airport but also to MIA-Miami Airport (approx 29 mi / 47 km from Port Everglades). The driving time Miami-Fort Lauderdale is ~45 min.

Next map shows all berths locations.

In December 2020 was completed the new cruise parking garage (Herron Garage) that serves Terminal 2 and Terminal 4.

• Herron Garage has capacity 1818 vehicles and features an air-conditioned bridge (with autowalks linking directly to Terminal 2 Ocean Medallion Terminal), solar power (generated by 360x photovoltaic panels), 9 elevators, touchless parking management systems (entry and payments), dedicated drop-off/pick-up level.
• At the garage's corner (that faces the roadway) was painted a 3D-optical illusion mural (height 70 ft / 21 m).
• For the construction works were contracted two local companies ("Stiles Construction" and "Pirtle Construction"). For the facility's design and engineering was contracted "Cartaya & Associates Architects PA".

Herron Garage project cost USD 120 million.

Northport Cruise Terminals

Both Northport cruise ship terminals are provided with standard services and amenities, such as disabled access, check-in desks, full-served A/C, free seating areas, baggage handling areas. These terminals are utilized by MSC Cruises (Terminal 4) and Princess Cruises (Terminal 2).

Port Everglades' "Northport Terminal 2" and "Northport Terminal 4" share a car parking (a multi-story garage) with capacity thousands of cars. Parking prices are USD 15 daily.

Cruise Terminal 2 (Princess Cruises)

On November 10, 2017, Carnival Corporation completed Cruise Terminal 2's reconstruction and upgrade. This facility is used exclusively by Princess Cruises ships.

• Following the modernization, the terminal now features an optimized design, interactive experiences, indoor movie theater, re-designed pre-embarkation area.
• The project also included adding Carnival's xIoT network (serving the Ocean Medallion gadgets) which allows passengers on Medallion-equipped vessels expedited boarding (as soon as they enter the facility). The new interactive experience includes personal "Ocean Tagalongs" (serving as guests' digital avatars) displayed on a large LED screen surrounding the "Ocean Portal" (where passengers enter after security clearance and check-in). Ocean Tagalongs are created and personalized via the SocialOcean mobile app.
• The refurbished Terminal 2 now has Carnival's MedallionNet - top-quality Wi-Fi connectivity service.
• Regal Princess was the first cruise ship departing from the modernized Terminal 2 on NOvember 13, 2017.

Midport Cruise Terminals

All cruise terminals at Midporth provide usual facilities like disabled access, luggage handling, free areas for seating, automated gangway bridge (for passenger embarkation/disembarkation), restrooms, vending machines.

• Port Everglades' Midporth Terminal 18 has a large car parking. Midporth Terminals 19 through 29 all offer parking at the Midport's garage.
• Terminal 18 and Terminal 29 are utilized by various cruise ship companies and operators.

Exclusive cruise terminals are Terminal 26 ( Holland America Line ), Terminal 21 ( Carnival Cruise Line ), Terminal 19 ( Princess Cruises ), Terminals 18 and 25 ( Royal Caribbean ).

There are also plans for future using of Terminal 29. By the signed agreement, Carnival Corporation ships will use exclusively the facilities on terminals 2, 21 and 26. By the previously signed 15-year agreement (1995-2010), Port Everglades invested USD 54+ million in facility renovations and infrastructure improvements to the 4 terminals. Among the enhancements were 2 new mobile gangways (passenger bridges), separate (enlarged) baggage storage facilities, improved ground transportation.

T25 - Terminal 25 (Celebrity Cruises)

In early-June 2017 was announced that Port Everglades invests USD 114+ million in Terminal 25's renovations. This is the preferential berth for RCG-Royal Caribbean Group ships.

The agreement's period is through 2026, with optional extension until 2030, followed by additional 5 years.

Terminal 25 was redesigned and rebranded by Celebrity Cruises. The expansion project included larger luggage area, new VIP reception (The Retreat - exclusive lounge), private rooftop terrace, dedicated crew lounge (industry's first), elevator lobbies, screening areas, 136 m2 (1463 ft2) GKD Mediamesh-produced LED sign (interactive light wall wrapping building's exterior). For Terminal 25's new design was contracted the company "Bermello Ajamil and Partners". The new T25 offers expedited arrival with seamless check-in.

RCG (which also owns Celebrity Cruises ) homeported Celebrity Edge here, starting turnaround operations in 2018 (on December 1st). The new T25 terminal (in Hollywood FL) was officially inaugurated with the ship's arrival (on November 20th). The grand ceremony was attended by Richard Fain (RCG's President and CEO) and Lisa Lutoff-Perlo (Celebrity's President and CEO), plus key cruise brand executives and local officials. An exclusive event was hosted at NSU's Oceanographic Center.

Northport Cruise Terminal 4

Northport Terminal 4 was reopened in 2015 following a USD 24 million renovation and modernization project for greater efficiency and passenger convenience.

In mid-2017 were completed the works on Cruise Terminal 4's extensions (project cost USD 13,6 million) which allows now docking of larger vessels.

In August 2016, the port signed with Carnival Corporation an extension to their agreement to the year 2030. Plans for Cruise Terminal 21's expansion were included. The renovation and extension allow the handling of larger-sized (including Carnival's newest) vessels. As part of the addendum, Carnival Corporation receives preferential berthing at Terminal 4.

Since October 2017, larger vessels (LOA length up to 1100 ft / 335 m) can dock at Cruise Terminal 4 without extending into the ICW (Intracoastal Waterway - 3000 mi / 4800 km long inland waterway along USA's Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico coasts). The USD 18 million "Slip 2" project lengthened the slip from 900 ft (274 m) to 1125 ft (343 m). The extended berth now meets the needs of most modern cruise vessels, many of which were for the first time homeported in Port Everglades in 2017. For the slip extension project the port didn't use local taxes.

In December 2021 the Port signed with DCL-Disney a 15-year agreement (2023 thru 2038) for upgrading Terminal 4 (US$35M investment) to allow homeporting a larger liner (max passenger capacity 3500) for year-round roundtrips. This followed Disney's decision to change homeporting to Port Everglades from Miami.

Riverwalk is a paved riverside path on the banks of New River in Fort Lauderdale.

Stranahan House is the city's earliest residence built by the “father of Fort Lauderdale,” Frank Stranahan in 1901.

Fort Lauderdale History Center is themed on the city's history.

Bonnet House Museum And Gardens were built in 1920s by Frederick Clay Bartlett as winter residence to get away from Chicago.

Forth Lauderdale’s South Beach Park is the nearest to downtown beach. It is lifeguarded and unique as it borders a paved promenade street.

Fort Lauderdale tours, shore excursions, hotels

City tours and shore excursions.

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Fort Lauderdale - user reviews and comments

Complete guide to cruising from Fort Lauderdale's Port Everglades

Editor's Note

Update: Some offers mentioned below are no longer available. View the current offers here .

Port Everglades, in Florida's Fort Lauderdale, is one of the country's major gateways to cruise vacations -- only Port of Miami and Port Canaveral are busier. Some 3.86 million cruisers passed through Port Everglades in 2018. The port is conveniently located near both Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) and Miami International (MIA) , making it easy to fly in, stay a night or two in any of the many points hotels in the area and then board a cruise ship to the Bahamas, Caribbean and beyond.

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Port Everglades

1850 Eller Drive Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33316

Tip: Download the CruiseSchedule Port Everglades App for searchable cruise schedules, port-of-call itinerary lists with maps and turn-by-turn GPS navigation for terminals and parking.

Click the square on the upper-right edge of the map to zoom in and see points of interest in the Fort Lauderdale area.

Who sails from Port Everglades?

Port Everglades is a home port for ships from many of the industry's major cruise lines. In 2021, lines with a presence at the port will include Carnival Cruise Line , Celebrity Cruises , Cunard , Holland America Line , Princess Cruises , The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection , Royal Caribbean and Silversea Cruises . (Note that the coronavirus pandemic continues to shake up the industry with cruise cancellations , and home ports, ships and itineraries may shift as sailings resume.)

What kind of itineraries will you find from Port Everglades? Look for three-, four- and five-night cruises to the Bahamas and plenty of Caribbean sailings ranging from five to 21 nights on some of the world's hottest ships such as Celebrity Edge and Celebrity Apex; Holland America's Nieuw Statendam; Sky Princess ; Carnival Sunrise ; Royal Caribbean's Oasis of the Seas; and Silversea's Silver Moon. There's also a wide range of sailings to Mexico and the Panama Canal from the port.

In addition to the cruise lines that make Port Everglades home, the fast ferry Balearia Caribbean transports passengers from Fort Lauderdale to Grand Bahama Island.

Note that Port Everglades does not offer wheelchair service. If you need a wheelchair from the curb to ship, or parking lot to ship, contact your cruise line to make arrangements.

Disembarking from Port Everglades is also a breeze since it participates in the U.S. Customs and Border Protection's Global Entry program . Be sure to pack your Global Entry card and you'll zip through the immigration process so you can quickly make your way to the airport or your hotel.

Related: The 8 most exciting new cruise ships of 2020

Nearest airports

Port Everglades, the only U.S. cruise port adjacent to an international airport, is easily accessible and just 10 minutes from the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL). Alaska Airlines, Allegiant, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, JetBlue, Silver Airways, Southwest, Spirit and United all fly here from gateways across the U.S.

Farther away but still accessible are Miami International, just under 30 miles south, and Palm Beach International (PBI), which is 50 miles north. If you're traveling to Miami, look for flights on American, Delta, Frontier, Sun Country and United. From Palm Beach, fly Allegiant, American, Delta, Frontier, JetBlue, Southern Airways Express, Southwest, Spirit and United.

No matter which airport you pick, you can leverage airline programs to save money on airfare. Headed to MIA? Two airlines -- Alaska and Delta -- offer companion certificates as perks of their cobranded credit cards. Get the Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® credit card and receive a companion certificate on the card's anniversary. The certificate allows a companion to fly with you for $121 ($99 fare and the cost of taxes from $22). And, several Delta credit cards offer a similar companion certificate . Finally, you can bring a companion along for free (actually, just the cost of the ticket's taxes) if you have the Southwest Companion Pass .

If you're flying to MIA or PBI instead and are a member of Frontier's Discount Den , look for Friends Fly Free and Kids Fly Free offers, which the airline sells periodically. You can also check American's Reduced Mileage Awards to see if FLL, MIA or PBI are on the current list, and watch for JetBlue flash sales.

Related: Best airline credit cards

As your packing for your trip, don't forget to bring any credit cards that confer lounge benefits. For example, while FLL doesn't have a Priority Pass lounge, it does offer a credit at Kafe Kalik in Terminal 4. Your Chase Sapphire Reserve® and Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card come with a Priority Pass membership (enrollment required) — as do many other credit cards .

The information for the Hilton Aspire Amex card has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

If you carry The Platinum Card® from American Express, you have access to the Delta Sky Club at FLL, MIA and PBI.

Related: The ultimate guide to getting Delta Sky Club access

How to get to the port

Cruise line transfers.

Many times, it makes sense to buy the cruise line's bus transfer from the airport to port and vice versa. Flying into FLL isn't one of those times. The airport is so close to Port Everglades -- a 10-minute drive -- that it makes sense to simply grab a taxi or Uber. It will cost less, and you won't need to wait around as the cruise line fills the bus with passengers.

If you're flying into MIA, however, which is about an hour's drive to Port Everglades, you should price out the cruise line's transfer option and see what's a better deal.

Related: Best credit cards for booking a cruise

Hotel shuttles

If you plan to spend the night in Fort Lauderdale before your cruise, look for a hotel that offers a free shuttle from the airport to the hotel as well as a free or paid shuttle from the hotel to the cruise port the next morning. These three points properties fit that bill:

• Hampton Inn & Suites Fort Lauderdale Airport/South Cruise Port has a free airport shuttle and paid shuttle to the cruise terminal. Rooms range from 26,000 to 50,000 Hilton Honors points per night.
• SpringHill Suites Fort Lauderdale Airport & Cruise Port has a free airport shuttle and a $10 one-way shuttle to the cruise terminal. Rates start at 25,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night on standard dates.
• Ramada Fort Lauderdale Airport/Cruise Port has a free shuttle service from the airport to the hotel and from the hotel to Port Everglades. Rooms start from 15,000 Wyndham Rewards points per night.

Independent van and car services

There are several van services from FLL, too. GO Airport Shuttle costs $11 per person to Port Everglades, and vans hold a maximum of 10 people. Alternatively, you can book a luxury sedan seating up to four through GO Airport Shuttle for $40 per person.

Metro Shuttle Service costs $8 to $15 per person for the ride from FLL to Port Everglades, depending on the number of people in your group. The more people on your reservation, the lower your per person rate.

Related: The ultimate guide to GroundLink's car service

Taxi and ride-hailing services

The average one-way metered taxi fare from FLL to Port Everglades is between $15 and $17. The fee jumps to $75 if you're taking a taxi from MIA and it's $130 to $160 for a taxi ride from PBI, which is about an hour from the port. Most cabs accept credit cards, but always ask before getting in.

Uber and Lyft also serve FLL, MIA and PBI. The average rate from FLL to Port Everglades is between $10 and $15.

Related: Best credit cards for Uber

Public transportation

While there are public buses in Fort Lauderdale, there's no easy or convenient way to transit from the airport to the port.

Port parking

Port Everglades offers secure, well-lit parking in two garages and three gated surface lots with patrols. You can park your car within walking distance of nearly all the terminals. Cruise terminals 2 and 4 share the 2,500-space Northport Garage, though a new 1,888-space parking garage is under construction to serve both terminals. Terminals 18 and 19 each have their own surface lots named after them; the Terminal 19 Parking Lot is shared between the two. Four terminals -- cruise terminals 19, 21, 25 and 29 -- share the 2,000-space Midport Garage, but only cruise terminal 29 has a complimentary shuttle service between the parking spots and terminal.

There's a $15 daily maximum charge for standard vehicles, while oversized vehicles that exceed the width and/or height of a parking space (think: RVs) have a $19 daily maximum fee.

Port Everglades also provides parking for people with disabilities with unimpeded access to crosswalks and elevators. Parking is free for anyone who:

• has a Florida Toll Exemption Permit
• drives a vehicle modified with specialized equipment, such as ramps, lifts or foot/hand controls
• displays the Florida "DV" license plate -- Disabled Veteran -- or an equivalent license plate from another state

Where to stay near the port

Fort Lauderdale is a major vacation destination in its own right, so there are plenty of hotels from which to choose. There are a lot of points hotels -- close to the port, near the beaches and at the airport -- as well as other boutique-style and luxury resorts. Here are some of our favorite places to stay before after a cruise.

Hotels closest to the port

Several good points properties are less than a 10-minute drive from Port Everglades. They include:

Crowne Plaza Fort Lauderdale (455 FL-84): Book a room from 20,000 IHG Rewards Club points per night (1.9 miles from the port).

Holiday Inn Express Fort Lauderdale Cruise-Airport (1500 SE 17th Street Causeway): Rooms are available from 15,000 IHG points per night (1.9 miles from the port).

Hyatt Place Fort Lauderdale Cruise Port (1851 SE 10th Avenue): This is one of the most popular pre-cruise hotels with travelers who often book cruise itineraries embarking from Port Everglades. Rooms are available from 12,000 World of Hyatt points per night. Don't forget, you can also transfer your Chase Ultimate Rewards points to your Hyatt account on a 1:1 basis. (2.3 miles from the port).

Stay on the cheap

These hotels are also less than 10 minutes from the port but are a great value -- on both points and in cash -- most nights of the year. Be sure to price out both the cash and points price to find the best value. During certain times of the year, the cash prices are so low, it simply doesn't make sense to spend your hard-earned points.

Four Points by Sheraton Fort Lauderdale Airport/Cruise Port (1800 South Federal Highway): Get a room from 35,000 points per night on standard dates or use a 35,000-point award night certificate like the one you'll get on the anniversary of the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless Credit Card. Just note that, depending on the season, cash prices may be a better value. (2.4 miles from the port)

Embassy Suites by Hilton Fort Lauderdale 17th Street (1100 SE 17th Street): Spend between 33,000 and 60,000 Hilton Honors points per night (2.5 miles from the port).

Ramada by Wyndham Fort Lauderdale Airport/Cruise Port (2275 W SR 84, Marina Mile Boulevard): Rooms from 15,000 Wyndham Rewards points per night (4.1 miles from the port).

Related: How to get free hotel breakfast

Full-service hotels

Hilton Fort Lauderdale Marina (1881 SE 17th Street): Stay here for between 27,000 and 60,000 Hilton Honors points per night.

Renaissance Fort Lauderdale Cruise Port (1617 SE 17th Street): This Category 5 Marriott property that costs 35,000 points per night on standard dates (or use a 35,000-point award night certificate).

Luxury hotels

If you'd prefer staying at a luxury property, look to the Conrad Fort Lauderdale Beach (available from 66,000 to 95,0000 Hilton Honors points per night); The Pillars Hotel , which you can book with your Chase Ultimate Rewards points; or The Ritz-Carlton, Fort Lauderdale (a Marriott Category 7 property available from 50,000 points per night on off-peak dates or using a 50,000-point award night certificate).

Where to shop near the port

Within Port Everglades, you'll find Seafarers' House. Its mission is simple: to be a "welcoming place where mariners can connect with their communities and families, seek guidance and get emergency help if needed."

While the 4,200-square-foot facility is designed to provide services to crewmembers, cruisers are also welcome. You can shop at the on-site convenience shop, access free Wi-Fi and visit the chapel.

If Seafarers' House doesn't have what you need before embarkation, there's a CVS at 1700 Federal Highway, about a 10-minute drive from port and close to the hotels we mentioned above. There's also a Publix grocery store (1940 Cordova Road) and Total Wine (1906 Cordova Road) in that area in the Harbor Shops plaza.

Where to eat

Fort Lauderdale is a cosmopolitan city with all types of restaurants, from casual diners to fine dining. You can find everything from Southern comfort food and local seafood dishes to Caribbean and Latin American cuisines, Asian fusion and more.

If you arrive at FLL early in the morning and need breakfast before heading to the port, try The Floridian Diner (1410 East Las Olas Boulevard). Open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, you can order your favorite egg dishes, pancakes, waffles, breakfast wraps and more. At dinnertime, they serve pork chops, country-fried steak, St. Louis ribs and fried chicken, among other hearty plates.

Lester's Diner (250 FL-84), just 10 mins from Port Everglades, is another favorite spot for all-day and all-night dining. It's been in business for more than 40 years and is a terrific place for a quintessential diner breakfast. Try the breakfast skillets, Belgian waffles and omelets. At lunch and dinner, order Greek and Italian specialties as well as burgers, deli-style sandwiches and roast chicken.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Lester's Diner (@lesters.diner) on Oct 15, 2019 at 4:01am PDT

Jaxson's Ice Cream Parlor & Restaurant (128 S Federal Hwy, Dania Beach) makes its frozen dairy treats on-site every day from fresh ingredients. Pick your favorite flavor and then take a look at the largest collection of rural American memorabilia in the country. This local legend is about 15 minutes from the port.

Tom Jenkins' Bar-B-Q (1236 S. Federal Highway, about 10 minutes from port) is a Southern-style restaurant known for its ribs and barbecue sauce. If you don't have time to taste its classic soul food dishes, you can still take home a bottle of its famous barbecue sauce.

Seafood restaurants abound, leading among them is 15th Street Fisheries at the Lauderdale Marina (1900 SE 15th Street), with amazing waterfront views. Other popular spots include the Rustic Inn Crabhouse (4331 Anglers Avenue) and Islamorada Fish Company (220 Gulf Stream Way, Dania Beach). All of these restaurants are within a 20-minute drive from the port.

For brew fans, the Ale Trail awaits. Greater Fort Lauderdale's thriving beer culture encompasses many nano- and micro-breweries that offer over 500 beers. How about a Hefeweizen made with Florida-grown mangos? New to the Ale Trail are 3 Sons Brewing Co. in Dania Beach as well as American Icon Brewery Kitchen and Taproom, Sistrunk Marketplace and Brewery and Dangerous Minds Brewing Company, all in Fort Lauderdale.

TPG also reached out to a local and cruise industry insider -- Mark Conroy, managing director of the Americas for Silversea Cruises and a Broward County resident -- to get his take on the best places to eat in Fort Lauderdale. He singled out Rainbow Palace (2787 E Oakland Park Boulevard) for "the best Chinese meal in South Florida." He said it's "not inexpensive" but serves "great food," adding, "It tastes like you are in Hong Kong, not Fort Lauderdale."

He also suggests Fort Lauderdale's Greek Islands Taverna (3300 N Ocean Boulevard) with "amazing flavors" and "reasonable prices." No reservations are taken, though, so visitors might have to go early and wait in line. "It's definitely worth the wait," Conroy promised.

Conroy also is a fan of Coconuts (429 Seabreeze Boulevard), on Route A1A adjacent to the Swimming Hall of Fame on Fort Lauderdale Beach. "It's a typical beachy seafood hang-out," he said, "with beautiful views of the Intracoastal Waterway with a casual, relaxed vibe."

Sights to see

There are plenty of things to see and do when in Fort Lauderdale. Here are a few of our favorite recommendations for cruise passengers passing through town.

Las Olas Boulevard

We love shopping along this 2.5-mile avenue that stretches from downtown Fort Lauderdale to the ocean. It's the city's premier shopping venue and the ideal place to stroll and people-watch. Just a few miles from Port Everglades, the promenade along New River features high-fashion boutiques, sidewalk cafes and bars, along with multiple art and entertainment venues and nearby attractions. If you're looking for somewhere to eat, you'll find a plethora of options here, including Greek, Peruvian, French, Italian, Mexican, Asian, Kosher and more.

The Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi, with multiple stops and commentary, provides easy access to the promenade. Other stops include the Hilton Marina and Convention Center, Beach Place and Hugh Taylor Birch State Park. Water Taxi tickets cost $28 for adults, $23 for seniors 65 and older and military personnel, and $14 for kids ages 5 to 11.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi (@fortlauderdalewatertaxi) on May 21, 2020 at 2:29pm PDT

Sawgrass Mills

In Sunrise (12801 W. Sunrise Boulevard), this mall offers 350 name-brand outlets and value shops -- everything from Nike to Kate Spade to Gucci, Lululemon, Tory Burch and Tommy Hilfiger. There's also a movie and IMAX theater as well as a variety of restaurants. Paul Maison de Qualite and SushiGami are two of our favorites. The mall is a 25- to 35-minute drive from Port Everglades.

Dania Beach Ocean Park and Pier

Locals adore Dania Beach, a 20-minute drive from FLL or Port Everglades, because it's one of the least-crowded stretches of sand in the area. Yet, it even has a marina and pier from which you can fish. If you just want to enjoy the views, grab a bite to eat at Quarterdeck Restaurant (300 N. Beach Road, Dania Beach), which is right on the pier itself. At the beach, there's a playground, restrooms with showers and lifeguards on duty. You can also rent kayaks from area vendors.

Jungle Queen riverboat tours

A visit to the "Venice of America" won't be complete without taking a trip down its beautiful waterways lined with landmark homes. A local institution since 1938, Jungle Queen Riverboats (Bahia Mar Yachting Center, 801 Seabreeze Boulevard) takes you on a 90-minute guided sightseeing tour up and down Fort Lauderdale's Intracoastal Waterway. The ship also offers a tour with dinner and show on a private island. (Tour tickets are about $24 for adults, $21 for seniors, $14 for children and free for infants.)

Museums and gardens

Historic home fans might tour Bonnet House Museum & Gardens (900 N. Birch Road; $20 for adults and $16 for kids ages 6 to 12) on Fort Lauderdale Beach or Historic Stranahan House Museum (335 SE 6th Avenue; $12 for adults, $11 for seniors and $7 for students), particularly lovely when it's decorated Victorian-style for the winter holidays.

Offering a robust "look back" into Fort Lauderdale's early days are several museum buildings of History Fort Lauderdale (231 Southwest Second Avenue; access to all three museums is $15 for adults, $12 for seniors and $7 for students). Located in the former 1905-era New River Inn is the History Museum with exhibits covering prehistoric times through the modern era. The 1907-era Pioneer House Museum is set up with period furnishings, antique dolls and toys, much as it was back in the day, while the 1899 Schoolhouse Museum has period wooden desks and textbooks.

Hollywood Beach Boardwalk

This 2.5-mile promenade (101 S. Broadwalk) along the Atlantic Ocean is a wonderful place to stroll. The boardwalk connects three parks, 50 restaurants and dozens of shops. You can walk the boardwalk or rent a bike, and there are benches and public restrooms along the way.

Hugh Taylor Birch State Park

Clocking in at 180 acres, the Hugh Taylor Birch State Park (3109 E, Sunrise Boulevard, between the Intracoastal Waterway and SR A1A) lets people leave the crowds of Fort Lauderdale behind for a more relaxed experience. Within the park, there's a concession stand where you can rent bikes, kayaks and book Segway tours. Or, just enjoy the walking trails at a leisurely pace. As you walk along the Intracoastal, keep your eyes peeled and you may spy manatees. There's also a Water Taxi stop here.

Related: The 12 state parks that will make you fall in love with Florida

Bottom line

Fort Lauderdale is a vibrant vacation destination on its own, but it's also one of the easiest home ports for embarking on a cruise. Port Everglades is so close to Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport; it's a breeze to make your way from your flight to ship. The array of cruise ships and itineraries available out of Port Everglades is also impressive, which is one reason why it's one of the most popular home ports in the state for Floridians driving to their cruise vacation. Check out upcoming cruise itineraries and see if it's the right embarkation port for you.

With additional reporting by Susan Young

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Port Everglades is the gateway to the most popular cruise destination in the world — the Caribbean! Discover the many ways you can cruise by using the Port Everglades Cruise Guide , published annually in October. It’s a one-stop guide to planning your next cruise vacation.

Quick Facts

• Secure, convenient parking in our 2 multi-story garages and 3 surface lots.
• Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International (FLL) is less than 2 miles away.
• Three conveniently located entrances with access to Florida’s interstates, highways and turnpike.
• A wide variety of multiday cruise lines and a ferry service to the Bahamas.

New for 2023 -2024 Cruise Season

• Azamara Onward makes her maiden call on October 21, 2023, after a multi-million-dollar makeover.
• Celebrity Ascent will be named on December 3, 2023, to begin her inaugural Caribbean season. She is the fourth and largest ship in Celebrity’s Edge class.
• Crystal Serenity from newly rebranded luxury line Cystal, is anticipated to begin homeporting at Port Everglades in December 2023.
• Disney Dream will homeport starting November 20, 2023. Port Everglades will be one of only two Disney Cruise Line homeports in the world.
• Silver Nova this environmentally- friendly luxury ship will make her maiden call on January 4,2024, using liquefied natural gas (LNG) as its main fuel.
• Sun Princess is scheduled to debut in October 2024 as Princess Cruises’ largest and first LNG-powered ship.
• Symphony of the Seas will shift to Port Everglades after returning from Europe in November 2023.  
• Third busiest cruise homeport in the world.
• First U.S. cruise port to resume sailing after a 15-month pause due to the COVID-19 pandemic. First ship to sail in the United States was Celebrity Edge on June 26, 2021.

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Hot Topic: Surprise Cruise Reveal Ideas

Complete Guide to Fort Lauderdale Cruise Port (Port Everglades)

Fort Lauderdale is a bustling city with a major airport and a world-renowned cruise port. This east coast destination has so many wonderful cruise opportunities and attracts millions of visitors a year. In fact, we've sailed from the port and appreciate how central it is in the city.

We're taking the guesswork out of Port Everglades for you with our guide to the Fort Lauderdale cruise port. We'll help you figure things out for your South Florida visit, including the closest airports and hotels to stay at before or after your cruise.

We will also share what cruise lines leave from Port Everglades and how to find last-minute Fort Lauderdale cruise port deals. 

Disclosure: This page has affiliate links, meaning we may earn a small commission if you click the link and proceed with a purchase  at no cost to you . We recommend cruises, experiences, products, and services we personally use. As Amazon Associates, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Fort Lauderdale Cruise Port FAQs Answered

Where is the cruise port in fort lauderdale.

The cruise port is in the southern United States. It's just inland from the east coast of Florida, north of the Dania Beach neighborhood and south of the city's famous Las Olas Boulevard district, which runs into the downtown Fort Lauderdale area. It's also right next to the Fort Lauderdale airport.

How far is Port Everglades (Fort Lauderdale cruise port) from the Fort Lauderdale airport?

Port Everglades and Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (code FLL) are in close proximity to one another; they are less than 4 miles apart. The short drive is approximately ten minutes between the two.

How much does a taxi cost from the Fort Lauderdale Airport to the Fort Lauderdale cruise port?

A taxi is approximately $12 to $15. You can reach the taxi area by following the signs for airport ground transportation when exiting your airline terminal.

The taxi cost is determined according to the taxi meter. By Broward County law (the county where Fort Lauderdale is), cab fares are regulated by the government.

Alternatively, you can use Uber or Lyft to get to the cruise port.

Is there a free airport shuttle service from the Fort Lauderdale International Airport to the Port Everglades cruise terminal?

How far is the fort lauderdale cruise port (port everglades) from the miami cruise port (port of miami).

The two popular South Florida cruise ports are approximately 30 miles apart, depending on what number cruise terminal you're going to. The drive is around 40 to 90-minutes, depending on traffic. Traffic can get really bad in South Florida!

How far is the Miami airport from the Fort Lauderdale cruise port?

Depending on traffic, it's approximately 28 miles and a 40 to 90-minute drive. It's the same time and distance as Port Miami, but the Miami Airport (code MIA) is inland, and the cruise port is on the coast.

Where can I view the live webcam of Port Everglades?

You're in luck if you want to view a live camera feed of ships in port in Fort Lauderdale, industrial and recreational. View the Port Everglades webcam .

Overview of Fort Lauderdale Cruise Port (Port Everglades): All You Need to Know

Fort Lauderdale is a hot spot in Florida — literally and figuratively! The city attracts nearly four million cruise passengers annually and millions of more visitors who are not going on a cruise. The official name of the cruise port is “Port Everglades.” It's in the best location for travelers.

Several terminals and parking lots are near the cruise port, which is next to the Fort Lauderdale airport.

✦ Closest Airport to the Fort Lauderdale Cruise Port

Depending on your travel needs and budget, there are four airports you can choose from when planning your cruise from Fort Lauderdale. The closest is certainly Fort Lauderdale Airport.

✧  Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (Airport Code: FLL) 

Fort Lauderdale Airport (FLL) is the closest airport to Port Everglades. It is only 2.7 miles away, and it's incredibly easy to get to the cruise terminals. This is the best airport to fly to and from for easy access to Port Everglades.

✧ Miami International Airport (MIA)

The next closest major airport is in Miami, which is about 30 miles away from Port Everglades. Paid shuttles, ride shares like Uber and Lyft, and private transportation are all options here.

Beware that the drive from the MIA airport to Port Everglades can take between 45 to 90 minutes, depending on traffic. It may be best to pre-arrange a private car service so the cost doesn't vary based on traffic, which can add up.

✧ Palm Beach International Airport (PBI)

A bit further out, at 50 miles away, is the Palm Beach International Airport. This may be a good option if you plan to do some sightseeing first. It's a small airport, so it's not overwhelming like FLL, MIA, or MCO; cars easily get in and out of this airport, and it's easy to navigate for people walking through the terminals.

✧ Orlando International Airport (MCO)

If you have your heart set on visiting Orlando to go to the world-famous theme parks, including Walt Disney World and Universal , then Orlando International Airport could be a more budget-friendly option despite its distance, at over 200 miles away.

The drive from Orlando to Fort Lauderdale is usually two-and-a-half to three hours, depending on traffic and how often you stop. 

This is the closest major airport to the Cape Canaveral area, where many cruises leave from Port Canaveral , on Florida’s Space Coast. There are also a ton of great things to do in the Cape Canaveral area.

✦ Top 3 Fort Lauderdale Cruise Port Hotels

Enjoy a post-cruise or pre-cruise stay in one of the many Fort Lauderdale hotels before or after your vacation. Stay at resort-like Port Everglades hotels near the terminals because the options are plentiful. Our favorite brand of hotels is Marriott because they offer the best perks for loyalty, including room upgrades depending on your loyalty level and free wi-fi for all Marriott Bonvoy guests. We also find their customer service to be the best out of any hotels we stay at time and again.

We have indicated which hotels offer shuttles to the Fort Lauderdale cruise port, but if a hotel you’re interested in does not offer one, know that it’s easy to take Uber or Lyft to Port Everglades or ask the hotel to call a taxi.

✧ Renaissance Fort Lauderdale Cruise Port Hotel (Also Known As Renaissance Fort Lauderdale Marina Hotel) 

Located in the bustling yachting area of 17th Street, this beautiful hotel is popular amongst cruise guests.  It's also a short walk to Broward County Convention Center, which you can reach on foot in less than 10 minutes.

In addition to its great location, you can unwind in one of the resort-style poolside cabanas or take advantage of Fort Lauderdale's Sun Trolley, which is next to the hotel and offers free city transfers. Ride to the luxurious Galleria Mall , the pristine beaches, or the chic Las Olas Boulevard for dining and shopping. 

Another perk of staying here is that it's within walking distance of several restaurants and cafes, including Einstein Bagels, a personal favorite spot for breakfast, coffee, and lunch.

Though it doesn't offer a complimentary shuttle service, it's available for a low cost per person.

Distance to Port Everglades: 1.7 miles

Shuttle to the port: Every half hour from 10:30 am; $8 per person

✧ Fort Lauderdale Marriott Harbor Beach Resort & Spa

Enjoy luxurious beachside living along a quarter-mile length of immaculate private beachfront at this high-end hotel.

Take advantage of being a 10-minute drive from Las Olas Boulevard stores, restaurants, and nightlife. Unwind in one of the newly renovated rooms or suites, many of which have private balconies with water views. Swim in the lagoon-style outdoor pool, enjoy jet skiing and snorkeling, the fitness center with beachfront views, or treat yourself to the opulent spa. 

Distance to Port Everglades: 4.5 miles

Shuttle to the port: No

✧ The Ritz Carlton Fort Lauderdale

This oceanfront Fort Lauderdale hotel is a sought-after hideaway that is rich with nautical themes and elegant design. It offers modern amenities, like a 29,000-square-foot tropical sundeck with an infinity pool and private cabanas.

This Ritz Carlton luxury hotel is known for its welcoming, laid-back, and beachy vibe, on-site spa, and guest rooms with Atlantic Ocean views. What's more is that if your room isn't looking east to the ocean, it's looking west to the great view of the intracoastal waterway. Even the heated outdoor pool overlooks the water!

Distance to Port Everglades: 6 miles

Getting to Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale

✦ driving to the ft. lauderdale cruise port.

If arriving at the port by car, you can easily access Port Everglades via major highways such as Interstate 595, U.S. Route 1, and Interstate 95. 

Signs are well-posted and help guide you. Once you arrive in the area, follow the signs to your specific cruise terminal for drop-off points. Onsite parking is also available.

Here are the suggested driving directions from Port Everglades authority :

✧ From I-95: 

• From the south: Take Exit #26 to I-595 East
• From the north: Take Exit #24 to I-595 East

Once on I-595 East from either direction, follow signs to the Port Everglades exit. 

✧ From I-75 north or south:

Take Exit #19 to I-595 East, then take the exit to Port Everglades.

✧ From Florida Turnpike North or South

Take Exit #54 to I-595 East, then take the exit to Port Everglades.

✦ Parking at Port Everglades

Onsite parking garages and parking costs .

Parking at the Fort Lauderdale cruise port is on a first-come, first-served basis and is the best option if your budget allows. Parking fees start at $15 per day.

The Port has two parking garages with nearly 4,000 spaces and several lots: 

• Palm Parking Garage is the largest covered parking lot with 1,966 spaces and serves terminals 19, 21, 25, 26, and 29. 
• Heron Parking Garage is another covered lot with over 1,800 parking spots and serves terminals 2 and 4. 
• The surface lots are not covered (AKA: exposed to the Florida heat!). Lots 18 and 19 offer 600 and 400 spaces if you want to park outdoors. Truthfully, though, if you park at Port Everglades, they’ll likely direct you to the open lot that day closest to the embarking cruise ships. That's what they did when we sailed with Celebrity Cruises .

✧ Parking Offsite Near Port Everglades

If you want reassurance that you will have parking, choose privately run lots such as Park By The Ports , located in Dania Beach, where the Fort Lauderdale airport is; it's right next to the cruise port. A shuttle will take you to your cruise terminal, and you can reserve a spot in advance. Other options are Park N’ Go , and Parkway Parking , which offer the best prices. 

✧ Airport Shuttle Option 

If you’re flying into an airport to board your cruise, you can take a third-party shuttle from either Fort Lauderdale (FLL) Airport or Miami Airport (MIA), which includes the shuttle price, driver's gratuity, and Port Fees. There is no free shuttle service.

✧ Uber/Lyft

Taxis and rideshares are available to get to Port Everglades. Expect to pay between $15-$20 from FLL and between $80 and $120 to the port in Fort Lauderdale from MIA.

✦ Getting to Port Everglades via Public Transportation 

Though it’s not very direct, it's possible to get to the port by bus if you’re up for a bit of a trek. Local bus service stops at the Northport section of Port Everglades on SE 17th S. Look for scheduled bus routes 1 or 40 for more details.

If you’re traveling to Fort Lauderdale from Miami or Orlando, the Brightline train is a good option. You take the train to Fort Lauderdale, then can hop in a taxi, Lyft, or Uber to get to the cruise port, which is only 4 miles away.

Brightline tickets are as low as $10 each way for adults, depending on the route and day of the week.

✦ Getting to Port Everglades with Cruise Line Transfers

Cruise lines often provide port transfers between airports and hotels, and hotels and cruise ports. Be sure to inquire with your cruise line to see if this is an option. Some cruise lines include it, while others offer it at an additional cost. 

If there is an additional cost, compare it to the options we list here — like a paid shuttle or taxi — to see which is the best choice.

Who Sails from Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale? 

Many familiar cruise li n es call on Port Everglades, such as:

• Celebrity Cruises
• Viking Ocean Cruises
• Disney Cruise Line
• Princess Cruises
• Holland America Line
• Silversea Cruises
• Balearia Caribbean
• Royal Caribbean International
• Ritz Carlton Yacht Collection

Please note that the cruise lines with options from Port Everglades may change slightly each year.

✦ Where to Find Last Minute Cruise Deals from Fort Lauderdale 

Our favorite sites to find last-minute cruise deals and cruise packages are Cruise Direct and Cruise Critic .

✦ Port Everglades Cruise Port Terminals: Where Do Cruise Lines Dock?

Knowing where to embark on your cruise is an important piece of info. Docking terminals are assigned based on the type and size of the vessel. Be sure to check your booking information, but don’t worry if you don’t have it on hand upon arrival; the staff at the terminal will be happy to direct you to your ship and its specific terminal when you arrive. 

Below are terminal designations up to date as of 2023:

• Princess Cruise Line : Port Everglades Terminal 2, 19, 21
• Celebrity Cruises: Port Everglades Terminal 25, 29
• Disney Cruise Line: Port Everglades Terminal 4
• Carnival Cruise Lines: Port Everglades Terminal 4
• Royal Caribbean : Port Everglades Terminal 18, 25, 29 
• Carnival Cruise Line : Port Everglades Terminal 21
• Holland America Line: Port Everglades Terminal 21, 26, 29

Read this next:

• How to Text on a Cruise Ship for Free (and Other Ways to Get Wi-Fi Onboard)
• Complete Guide to Closed-Loop Cruises (and Open Jaw Itineraries)
• Southern Caribbean Islands Cruise Planning Guide

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Port Everglades is located on the southeastern coast of the Florida peninsula and straddles three cities: Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood and Dania Beach, as well as unincorporated Broward County.

The port is perfectly positioned near the Atlantic Ocean shipping lanes, the Florida East Coast railway, Florida's highway system, the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport and the beautiful beaches of Greater Fort Lauderdale.

Port Everglades serves South Florida and is near Miami (23 miles south), West Palm Beach (48 miles north) and Orlando (215 miles north).

The Port Everglades Administration building is located at 1850 Eller Drive in Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316. The sea buoy for Port Everglades is located at: 26° 05.5’ North Latitude 80°04.8’ West Longitude

There are three entrances into Port Everglades. The SE 17th St. entrance is located at Eisenhower Boulevard; the I-595 East entrance and the State Road 84 entrance is located off U.S. 1. Proper identification such as driver's license or a passport is required of each person entering the port and your vehicle is subject to search.

When traveling on I-95 south, take Exit #26 to I-595 East. Follow exit sign to Port Everglades.

When traveling on I-95 north, take Exit #24 to I-595 East. Follow exit sign to Port Everglades.

When traveling on I-75 north or south, take Exit #19 to I-595 East. Follow exit sign to Port Everglades.

When traveling on Florida's Turnpike north or south, take Exit #54 to I-595 East. Follow exit sign to Port Everglades.

If you are already in Fort Lauderdale, the SE 17th St. or East State Road 84 entrances may be more convenient to use. Colorful wayfinding signage inside Port Everglades will direct you to parking and cruise terminals.

Directions to the Port Everglades Administration building

From SE 17th Street enter on Eisenhower Blvd. by the Greater Fort Lauderdale/Broward County Convention Center. Continue south on Eisenhower.  The road curves and changes into SE 19th Ave. Make a right (west) at the traffic light at Eller Dr. The Port Administration building will be on the left. It is a six-story glass building with red trim.

From S.R. 84/Spangler Blvd. travel east to Eisenhower Blvd. and make a right turn at the traffic light (south). The road curves and changes into SE 19th Ave. Make a right (west) at the traffic light at Eller Dr. The Port Administration building will be on the left. It is a six-story glass building with red trim.

From I-595 travel east directly into the Port on Eller Dr. The Port Administration building will be on the right just past the security gate, 1850 Eller Drive. It is a six-story glass building with red trim.

Port Tariff

Port publications.

Fort Lauderdale-Port Everglades Cruise Port Guide

Hollywood, Florida is the home of the third largest cruise port in the world, Port Everglades, which is situated in Greater Fort Lauderdale. This one-of-a-kind recreational holiday destination offers breathtaking beaches on the Atlantic Coast and a variety of attractions just around the corner. You can enjoy amazing shopping, taste incredible food, and have the time of your life on the vast Florida Everglades.

As everything is within a walking distance, getting from the port to any of the destinations is a piece of cake. The efficient taxi service won’t cost you more than $20 in any direction, and if you are staying in a hotel, you will be provided with a free shuttle service. The best hotels on Fort Lauderdale and the wide Hallandale beaches are no more than 12 miles away from the port. Fort Lauderdale is the best place to be, whether you are preparing for your cruise or relaxing after it. This astonishing area offers you a magnificent variety of activities and a high quality satisfaction on Florida’s best beaches. A seven day stay here is barely enough for you to enjoy all that this place have to offer and it definitely won’t be easy to choose where to spend your limited time first.

One of the suggestions of a time well spent is to aim first towards the centre of Fort Lauderdale, where you will find a great number of shops, lovely restaurants and astonishing galleries. You will enjoy a water taxi, a nice walk along the Riverwalk and an interesting and educational visit for you and your children in the Museum of Science and Discovery.

What’s even better is that they are all within close range. Las Olas Boulevard will take care of your social life by offering you extravagant boutiques and restaurants, together with its enchanting nightlife and  the famous bars, such as American Social, Mangos, O Lounge, Big City Tavern and Cash Only. 

Cruises from Florida

Embark from Florida: A Gateway to Caribbean Wonders & Beyond

Port Everglades: A Premier Gateway for Caribbean Cruises

Cruise Terminals at Port Everglades

Carnival Cruise Line often departs from Terminal 2, where modern facilities and a range of passenger amenities set the stage for a festive embarkation experience. This terminal is designed to echo Carnival’s lively and fun atmosphere, welcoming passengers with an efficient and enjoyable start to their voyage. Click here for directions to Cruise Terminal 2 .

Recently renovated to enhance the cruising experience, Terminal 4 serves Disney Cruise Line passengers. This terminal is outfitted with magical Disney touches and enhanced services, ensuring families and Disney fans begin their journey with excitement and ease. Click here for directions to Cruise Terminal 4 .

Terminal 18

Known for its flexibility, Terminal 18 accommodates a variety of cruise ships, like Holland America Line , offering spacious facilities and a streamlined process for a broad spectrum of passengers. Its versatile design allows it to host different cruise lines, ensuring every traveler enjoys a swift and comfortable embarkation. Click here for directions to Cruise Terminal 18 .

Terminal 19

Terminal 19 is a versatile facility used by several cruise lines, like Viking Cruises . Its adaptable nature makes it a hub of activity, providing efficient services and a welcoming atmosphere for passengers as they prepare to set sail on their chosen adventures. Click here for directions to Cruise Terminal 19 .

Terminal 21

Recently updated to meet the evolving demands of the cruise industry, Terminal 21 offers efficient services and modern amenities. This terminal caters to various cruise lines, like Royal Caribbean , ensuring passengers experience a seamless check-in and boarding process. Click here for directions to Cruise Terminal 21 .

Terminal 25

Celebrity Cruises primarily uses Terminal 25, which is a testament to contemporary cruising. Its contemporary design and upscale amenities reflect Celebrity’s commitment to modern luxury, providing an elegant start to the cruise experience. Click here for directions to Cruise Terminal 25 .

Terminal 26

Mainly serving smaller and luxury cruise lines, Terminal 26 offers an intimate and refined embarkation experience. Its focus on high-end services caters to the discerning traveler looking for a personalized and sophisticated start to their journey. Click here for directions to Cruise Terminal 26 .

Terminal 29

Like Terminal 18, Terminal 29 boasts flexibility in accommodating a range of cruise ships, like Princess Cruises . Its facilities are designed to cater to various passenger needs, ensuring everyone, from adventure-seekers to relaxation enthusiasts, begins their cruise with ease and comfort. Click here for directions to Cruise Terminal 29 .

Each terminal at Port Everglades is uniquely equipped to handle different sizes of ships and passenger volumes. In light of the ever-changing nature of cruise schedules, passengers are urged to consult their cruise line directly for precise terminal details.

Port Facilities and Amenities

Fort Lauderdale’s Port Everglades, a favored embarkation point for Caribbean journeys, stands out for its modern terminal facilities and wide range of passenger amenities. With a focus on creating a pleasant and efficient embarkation experience, Port Everglades ensures every traveler’s needs are met from the moment they arrive.

• Varied Food and Beverage Outlets : The terminals offer a selection of dining choices, from fast-food eateries to gourmet restaurants, catering to diverse tastes and dietary requirements.
• Shopping Opportunities : Terminal shops present a broad spectrum of products, including fashion apparel, beauty products, souvenirs, and duty-free items.
• WiFi Connectivity : Complimentary internet access is provided throughout the terminals, enabling passengers to stay connected with friends and family or manage last-minute travel arrangements.
• Live Entertainment : The terminals occasionally host live entertainment, such as musical acts and cultural performances, adding to the festive atmosphere.
• Streamlined Check-In Process : Dedicated check-in areas facilitate a quick and hassle-free boarding process, allowing passengers to start their vacation with ease.
• Advanced Security Measures : Comprehensive security screenings and customs facilities ensure a safe and secure environment for all travelers.
• Information Services : Information centers offer valuable insights into terminal amenities, cruise schedules, and local points of interest.

These represent only a fraction of the amenities and services available at Port Everglades terminals. It’s worth noting that the offerings can differ based on the terminal and cruise company. For a comprehensive overview of amenities and services at a specific terminal, it’s advisable to check the terminal’s official website or reach out to the cruise line directly.

World-Class Cruise Lines from Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades)

• Celebrity Cruises offers a sophisticated and upscale cruising experience, with a focus on modern luxury, gourmet dining, and immersive itineraries.
• Disney Cruise Line provides family-oriented cruises filled with Disney magic, making it perfect for a memorable family vacation.
• Holland America Line is known for its elegant ships, premium services, and enriching programs, catering to a more discerning traveler.
• Princess Cruises delivers a refined and relaxed cruising experience, with an emphasis on personal service, fine dining, and engaging onboard activities.
• Royal Caribbean boasts some of the world’s most innovative cruise ships, offering a broad array of activities and entertainment for all ages.
• Viking Cruises specializes in intimate, destination-focused itineraries, providing a more in-depth exploration of each port of call.

The cruise lines setting sail from Port Everglades are renowned for their elegance and diverse itineraries, offering passengers a gateway to indulge in the lap of luxury, explore exotic destinations, and enjoy a seamless blend of relaxation and adventure.

Exotic Destinations Awaiting Discovery from Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades)

• The Bahamas : Set sail to the Bahamas, where the charm of Nassau’s colonial architecture and the untouched beauty of Princess Cays offer a perfect mix of cultural immersion and beach relaxation. From bustling markets to private island retreats, every moment is a treasure.
• Eastern Caribbean : The Eastern Caribbean beckons from Fort Lauderdale, with the romantic allure of St. Kitts and the natural beauty of St. Lucia. Discover the historical richness and lush rainforests that make these islands a haven for explorers and nature lovers alike.
• Western Caribbean : Journey to the Western Caribbean, where the ancient civilizations of Roatán, Honduras, and the vibrant life of Grand Cayman await. Dive into the deep blue to explore mesmerizing coral reefs or soak in the rich cultural tapestry of these storied islands.
• Southern Caribbean : Venture to the Southern Caribbean’s enchanting islands like Grenada, known as the “Spice Island,” and the idyllic shores of Aruba. Experience the blend of Dutch, British, and French cultural influences amidst stunning natural landscapes.
• Panama Canal : A journey through the Panama Canal from Fort Lauderdale is an adventure through one of the world’s most impressive engineering feats. Experience the passage through its complex lock system and explore the rich biodiversity of the surrounding tropical rainforests.

Departures from Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale unfold into journeys brimming with discovery, where each stop along the Caribbean and beyond is a chapter in a traveler’s tale of adventure, relaxation, and cultural exploration.

Preparing for Your Cruise from Fort Lauderdale

Navigating to Port Everglades

The Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL)

Port Everglades is easily accessible by car, taxi, or shuttle from the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) and surrounding areas. Public transportation options are also available for convenient access.

Parking Facilities at Port Everglades

Port Everglades provides a range of parking options close to the cruise terminals, with secure spaces available for both short-term and long-term parking, accommodating the needs of every cruiser.

Enhancing Your Cruise Experience in Fort Lauderdale

Unveiling Fort Lauderdale’s (Port Everglades) Gems

Arriving early in Fort Lauderdale allows you to immerse yourself in the city ‘s unique blend of beachside charm and cultural richness. From strolling along the iconic Riverwalk to exploring the lush landscapes of the Everglades, early arrival enriches your cruise vacation with unforgettable Floridian experiences.

Port Everglades Cruise Monthly Guide

A quick review of the Port Everglades cruise monthly guide will equip you with insights into Fort Lauderdale’s seasonal events and weather, ensuring a well-rounded experience both on land and at sea during your cruise journey.

Embarkation Tips

• Arrival Guidelines : Follow your cruise line’s recommended arrival times to allow for a relaxed check-in process and to take advantage of terminal amenities.
• Travel Documents : Ensure all necessary documents, such as passports and boarding passes, are readily accessible for a smooth check-in experience.

• Port Overview
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• Which Airport Should I Use?
• Transportation to the Ports
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Easy Ways to Get to Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale for a Cruise (Port Transportation)

Whether you are driving to the port or flying into Fort Lauderdale, you need to get to the cruise terminal before you can start your vacation! We’ve sailed from Port Everglades several times and can tell you about all your options (including our favorite) for getting to the cruise port.

Sitting north of Miami, Port Everglades may not get the same amount of attention as its sister port, but it is one of the busiest departure ports in America, with millions of passengers sailing each year.

Thankfully, given the location its relatively simple to get there. Below, we have provided directions to the port and your best options for reaching the port.

Location of Port Everglades Cruise Port

First things first, despite the name, Port Everglades is actually located in Fort Lauderdale, right on the Atlantic coast. (You’ll often hear Port Everglades and Fort Lauderdale used interchangeably when talking about the port.)

The cruise terminal is just about three miles from the Fort Lauderdale/Hollywood International Airport and about 25 miles north of the Miami International Airport .

Here is a map showing the cruise port in relation to the airport:

The port’s official address is 1850 Eller Drive, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316 if you wish to map your route using GPS.

However, if you are sailing out of terminals 2 or 4 (which are located on the north side of the port), we recommend using 1801 SE 20th St, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316  as the address. This will put you entering the port closer to your terminal. 

If you are driving to the port, click here for parking information .

Getting From the Fort Lauderdale Airport to Port Everglades

Given the short distance, it’s easy to transport back and forth from the Fort Lauderdale/Hollywood airport to Port Everglades. Unfortunately, there is not free shuttle that runs between the two points. That means you’ll need to arrange transportation. 

Uber/Lyft (Recommended)  You can use Uber or Lyft to get to the port from the airport easily ( see our guide here ). Rates will actually be a little lower than a taxi, and most people prefer to use these rideshare services due to their lower cost and higher convenience.

Rates for Uber/Lyft from the Fort Lauderdale airport to Port Everglades are about $15-20 per car.

One thing to note is that for that rate up to four people can ride in a car. With luggage, you might need a larger vehicle or take two cars if you are traveling with more than three people.

If you are unfamiliar with companies like Uber and Lyft, here’s how they work. First, you download the app to your smartphone, setting up an account and payment information. When you are ready for a ride, you simply open the app and select where you want to go.

A nearby driver will confirm your pick up and arrive shortly. After the ride, you’ll rate the driver through the app and also confirm payment through your credit card. No money changes hands, it’s all through the phone app.

At the Fort Lauderdale airport the pickup stops for these services are located in between terminals. You can follow the signage to get to the correct spot to then call your ride.

We will say that this area can get busy. We’d recommend having some patience as it can take 10-15 minutes before your car arrives. Other times, we’ve arrived and had no wait at all.

Given the price and convenience, we recommend taking Uber or Lyft, and it’s what we personally use to get to the port.

• Cost: ~$15-$20 one-way per car

Taxis (Recommended)  If catching a cab, the ride is short (only about three miles or 10 minutes). Fares will run you about $18-21 each way . Remember that the fare is per car, not per person. Split the fare between four passengers and you pay only a few bucks each for a ride directly to the port (or any other location you desire). You can head to ground transportation at the airport and get a cab immediately whenever your plan arrives.

The upside of a taxi is that there should be no wait in order to get a ride. You simply arrive, and head to the taxi stand to be on your way. If you see a long line at the rideshare station, consider just using a cab.

• Cost: ~$20 one-way per car

Hotel Shuttles to the Port One option that many people don’t think about are hotel shuttles. Because Fort Lauderdale is such a hub for cruising, a number of hotels offer perks to attract cruise passengers.

One such perk is a shuttle to the cruise port. Since the airport and cruise port are close to each other, many hotels will have a free (or low-cost) shuttle to/from the airport and then will also give you a ride to the cruise port if you stay with them for a night.

So if you’re staying the night in port, these hotels can be ideal to save some money on transportation.

We have a full list of hotel options with shuttles here . Below are several that offer both an airport and cruise port shuttle:

• Embassy Suites by Hilton 17th Street
• Hyatt Place Fort Lauderdale 17th Street Convention Center
• Hampton Inn Ft. Lauderdale Airport North Cruise Port
• Hampton Inn & Suites Ft. Lauderdale Airport/South Cruise Port

Other Ways of Getting to the Fort Lauderdale Cruise Port From the Airport Given the ease and cost of a taxi and Uber/Lyft from the Fort Lauderdale airport, there really isn’t a reason for alternate ways to get there.

For instance, cruise lines offer shuttles from the airport to the cruise port. However, these are typically expensive compared to catching a cab or rideshare and charged on a per-person basis. In this case, a ride might be $15-20 per person, each way. At that price, you could get a ride for up to four people in an Uber or taxi.

Similarly, independent shuttle services will likely end up being just as much — if not more — than a private ride. You’ll also have to wait on all the passengers heading to the port before you can leave.

Getting from the Miami Airport to Port Everglades (Fort Lauderdale)

One of the benefits of sailing from South Florida is that you have two major airports to fly into for your cruise — Fort Lauderdale and Miami. This way, if Miami has a better schedule or is cheaper, you can fly there and then head to Port Everglades.

Fortunately, there are transportation options to get you from Miami to Fort Lauderdale to catch the ship. Expect the ride to take at least 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic.

Uber/Lyft (Recommended)  You can use Uber or Lyft to get from Miami to Port Everglades easily. Rates are significantly cheaper than using a taxi. For example, Lyft estimates a ride from the Miami airport to Port Everglades would be $50-55 one-way for up to four people . (Note that during busy times we have seen this price jump to $100 each way.)

That’s about $20-30 less than the rate of a taxi cab, making rideshare services like Uber and Lyft our preferred method of reaching the port.

What’s also a plus is that you can catch an Uber or Lyft from the airport and head anywhere you want (including hotels or points of interest). You don’t have to just head right to the port.

• Cost: ~$50-$55 one-way per car

Taxis For our purposes, we’re assuming that you are flying into Miami for a Port Everglades cruise. Miami-based cabs are an estimated $100 from the Miami airport to Port Everglades . That price could vary based on traffic.

That seems expensive, but remember that is the fee for the entire car. Most shuttles, on the other hand, charge per person, which can make them more expensive for an entire group.

• Cost: ~$100 one-way per car

Cruise Line Transfers Cruise lines offer transfer service from the Miami and Fort Lauderdale airports to the cruise terminals.

Royal Caribbean, for example, offers a shuttle between Miami and Fort Lauderdale for $37 per person, each way .

Cruise line transfers offer convenience, but we also find they can be expensive and restrictive. Many are only available on the day you cruise and the day you depart and only go from the airport to the cruise ship. If you’re flying in the day before, then a transfer from the cruise line won’t work.

As well, prices are per person. A family of four taking a $37 transfer each way from the Miami airport to Port Everglades would pay $296 to get back and forth! That’s why we suggest finding alternate ways to the port.

If you are still interested in cruise transfers, you can call your cruise line for more information about their shuttles.

• Cost: ~$35-$40 one-way per person

Miami to Fort Lauderdale Shuttles In addition to the cruise line shuttles, there are independent shuttles that can get you to and from Port Everglades and the Miami airport. They can be cheaper than the cruise line transfers, but if traveling with more than one person, a rideshare still comes out on top.

In general, expect to see prices starting around $25 per person each way to get from Miami to Port Everglades . Keep in mind these prices can vary.

Shuttle Companies: GO Airport Shuttle | Metro Shuttle Service | South Florida Elite Shuttle |

• Cost: ~$25 one-way per person (varies)

Hotel Shuttles While many hotels in Miami offer shuttles to the Miami port and many Fort Lauderdale hotels offer shuttles to Port Everglades, we don’t know of any Miami hotels offering shuttles to Fort Lauderdale.

If you plan to stay a night in the area, you can take an Uber or taxi to Fort Lauderdale and select a hotel that offers a shuttle to the port.

See our list of Fort Lauderdale hotels with cruise port shuttles here .

Private Cars/Limos It’s easy to go in style in south Florida. There are plenty of companies that will pick you up in a private car or even a limo. In fact, many of the same companies that provide shared shuttle service also have private car service too.

Of course, this service is typically a little pricier. However, if splitting the cost between four or more passengers, it can be surprisingly affordable.

We don’t recommend or discourage any of the following car services (we’ve never used them), but provide them as a starting point for you to see what’s available.

Private Car/Limo Companies:  Family Car & Limo Service | A1 Luxury Limousine   | Elite Limo  | Ft Lauderdale Limo | Quality Limo Service

• Cost: Varies

More on Cruising From Port Everglades

Port Everglades Cruise Parking — Parking at the port? We’ve got you covered with all your parking options, including costs and discounts.

Port Everglades Park and Cruise Hotels — If you plan to stay in the area the night before your cruise, look at this list of hotels that offer cruise parking with a one-night stay.

Port Everglades Overview & Guide  — First time sailing from the port in Fort Lauderdale? We have everything you need to know about the ins and outs taking a cruise from Port Everglades.

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You totally missed another option… rental car shuttle. Many rental car companies don’t upcharge for one-way rentals in state, thus someone from Orlando may find that one-way rentals would be cheaper or comparable in price to long-term parking. I noticed that parking options are in another article.

When staying at a nearby precruise hotel on 17th terminals 1,2 and 4 are within walking distance however you CANNOT easily walk into terminal 4 due to the security fence and check point. It’s doable but not advised with luggage. Might be ok for B2B shore walk though.

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Fort Lauderdale and Port Everglades - Cruise Ship Ports

Popular Caribbean Cruise Ship Embarkation Ports

Fort Lauderdale (Ft. Lauderdale) is used by several cruise lines as an embarkation and disembarkation point for Caribbean cruises. The actual port in Ft. Lauderdale is known as Port Everglades, and it is the third-busiest cruise port in the world, drawing almost 3 million cruise passengers in its 11 cruise terminals. If you were to look at a topographical map of the eastern seaboard of the United States, you will see that Port Everglades is the deepest harbor south of Norfolk.

History of Fort Lauderdale and Port Everglades

Ft. Lauderdale is often called the "Venice of America" because of its 270 miles of natural and artificial waterways. The city was founded by Major William Lauderdale during the Seminole War of 1837-1838. The city grew rapidly during the land boom in Florida during the 1920s. Ft. Lauderdale has continued to grow, and its metro area now has over 4.5 million residents.

Port Everglades is an artificial harbor that got off to a somewhat inauspicious start. A developer named Joseph Young purchased 1440 acres in the 1920s for the Hollywood Harbor Development Company. President Calvin Coolidge was brought to Ft. Lauderdale on February 28, 1927, and asked to press the explosion detonator to open the harbor. Thousands gathered to watch the show. Unfortunately, he pushed the detonator and nothing happened! The harbor was unceremoniously opened later that day, and the new seaport was named Port Everglades in 1930.

Getting to Ft. Lauderdale and Port Everglades

By air -- Access to the large cruise terminal is easy and only about 2 miles (5 minutes) from the Ft. Lauderdale airport. Cruise line buses meet inbound flights for transfer to the port if you make arrangements in advance. If you choose to take a taxi from the airport to the pier, it should cost less than $20. Port Everglades is only about 30 minutes north of the Miami International Airport, so that is an additional option for cruisers.

By car -- For those that arrive at the port via car, Port Everglades has 3 passenger entrances: Spangler Boulevard, Eisenhower Boulevard, and Eller Drive. There are two large parking garages that cost $15 per 24-hour period in October 2008. The 2,500-space Northport Parking Garage next to the Ft. Lauderdale Convention Center serves terminals 1, 2, and 4. The 2,000-space Midport Parking Garage is closer to terminals 18, 19, 21, 22, 24, 25, and 26. Both garages have controlled security, are well-lighted, and will accommodate recreation vehicles (RVs) and buses.

Things to Do Before (or After) Your Cruise from Ft. Lauderdale

Visit a Beach Those of us who grew up during the 1950s and 1960s remember Ft. Lauderdale as a popular spring vacation destination for college students. Ft. Lauderdale is no longer the "in place" for college students, but it still has over 20 miles of beautiful beaches and great weather . The city also has hundreds of miles of navigable canals and waterways. Ft. Lauderdale spent over $20 million renovating the beach area a few years ago, and the area looks wonderful. Florida A1A shares the beach road with Atlantic Boulevard.

If you only have a short time to spend before boarding, you might want to go over to John U. Lloyd Beach State Recreation area across from the port. The park is excellent for fishing or for watching the cruise ships and other craft go in and out of the port. The beach is broad and flat and popular with swimmers and sun bathers. (You can start your tan early!) The beach is also one of Broward County's most important sea turtle nesting sites, and is also home to many of the endangered Florida manatees.

Go Shopping Want to do some last minute shopping? Las Olas Boulevard is an upscale street of shopping boutiques, often thought of as the "Rodeo Drive" of Ft. Lauderdale. Las Olas is good for strolling and window shopping and also has several good restaurants. Serious bargain shoppers might want to check out the Sawgrass Mills Mall on Sunrise Boulevard. This mall has over a mile of shops! Another popular shopping area is the Fort Lauderdale Swap Shop, a huge flea market also on Sunrise Boulevard.

See the Sights of Ft. Lauderdale The Museum of Discovery and Science is a fun interactive science museum with an IMAX Theater. The Museum of Art on Las Olas Boulevard is small, but has a good collection of modern and contemporary art. If you are into history, you might want to check out the Bonnet House. This estate is located on 35 acres and reflects the lives of the "pioneers" of the Ft. Lauderdale area. Butterfly World features over 150 species of butterflies. Visitors walk through a screened-in aviary and have an opportunity to see all stages of the life of a butterfly.

Take a Riverfront Cruise in Ft. Lauderdale If you can't wait to get on the water, you might want to explore Ft. Lauderdale on a day cruise. Riverfront Cruises will take you on a 1.5 hour cruise to see the fascinating sights along the New River, the Intracoastal Waterway, and Port Everglades.

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Port Everglades, Fort Lauderdale FL Terminal Information

Last updated on January 22nd, 2024 at 02:24 pm

Known as the "Cruise Capital of the World," Fort Lauderdale boasts multiple cruise terminals that provide easy access to the beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and cultural attractions of the city. Enjoy a seamless embarkation process before setting sail to your desired destination.

Port Everglades is located at 1850 Eller Drive, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33316 . Easy to access via car, taxi, bus, rail, and ship, the port is also conveniently located next to Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL), making it very convenient to fly in to Fort Lauderdale and get right on a cruise. It is a large and busy cruise port, but there are lots of signs to help you on your way.

Port Everglades cruise terminal has three entrances:

– 17th Street Causeway, located at Eisenhower Boulevard – State Road 84, located just off of US 1 (Spangler Blvd) – I-595 East (Eller Drive)

There is a security checkpoint at each entrance where you will need to show your ID and cruise tickets. Check the large digital signs as you enter the port to see which terminal at which your ship is docked.

There are 8 cruise terminals located within Port Everglades:

• Terminal 2 is primarily used by Carnival Corp. ships equipped with Ocean Medallion technology
• Terminal 4 is being redesigned for Disney Cruises which is set to open in Fall 2023
• Terminal 25 is primarily used by Celebrity’s most innovative ships (i.e. Beyond, Edge and Apex).
• The other terminals are interchangeable between cruise lines.

Because Port Everglades is such a busy port, it is important to arrive after 11:30am, and no later than 2 hours prior to your ship’s departure time, but it’s advised to follow the boarding time given to you in your cruise documents.

Check out this Port Everglades Map to give you a better idea of where you’re going, or if you like to day-dream before you even get to port, check out your upcoming view by checking this out: Port Everglades Web Cam

Port Everglades Parking

Port Everglades Hotels

Transportation to Port Everglades

Port Everglades Embarkation Tips:

– If coming from FLL, allow 45 mins – 1 hour to get your luggage, find transportation, traffic to the port and clearing the security checkpoint inside the port entrance

– There are large digital signs at each entrance which will show you at which terminal your ship is docked. Follow the brightly-colored signs to more easily navigate to your terminal and parking garages.

– Check-in typically begins around 11am, but most cruise lines will give you a check-in time. While most people like to get aboard the ship as early as possible, this makes for very, very long lines, especially when boarding a large ship.

– It is recommended that luggage is dropped off at the terminal prior to parking

– Passengers with Special Needs – before you go and stand in the long line with everyone else, ask a uniformed staff person if there is a line for those who are unable to stand for long periods of time or walk long distances. There is usually an expedited line,  and staff with wheelchairs if assistance is needed getting from the terminal to the ship.  On a previous cruise from Fort Lauderdale (2019), we were travelling with a wheelchair, and as soon as we stepped into the cruise terminal, a porter came right over to push the chair, and instead of waiting in a line, an employee came to us with an iPad and checked us in, before the porter wheeled us onto the ship. From shuttle to ship, the whole process took about 10 minutes.

– Make sure you have all your cruise documents handy, and make sure you are following the most up-to-date health protocols as laid out by your cruise line.

Cruises From Port Everglades

Port Everglades is the home port for many different ships from different cruise lines, mostly during the Spring, Fall and Winter:

Royal Caribbean

Holland America

Princess Cruises

Viking Ocean Cruises

Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection

See Excursions in Fort Lauderdale

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Fort Lauderdale Cruise Ship Schedule For 2024

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Easier Access to Princess Cruises in Florida with Improved Train Service

Andrea Santillan

• April 8, 2024

Princess Cruises and passenger rail company Brightline made it easier for guests to catch their sailings in Fort Lauderdale and Port Canaveral (Orlando).

The two companies are offering a “Rail and Sail” Program. It allows cruisers to book a Princess cruise and train tickets to their port of embarkation while enjoying discounts and a more seamless experience. 

Passengers of Princess Cruises get to travel in brand-new train cars designed with the Love Boat’s branding. Brightline’s 5 Florida terminals will also have the same look and feel. 

Brightline’s rail service is available at two price points: Smart and Premium. Savvy passengers can enjoy handstitched leather seats with multiple ports for USB and power connections. In addition to these features, the Premium service comes with Premium Lounge access and free food and beverages.

Aside from shorter travel times than other modes of transport, one of the Rail and Sail’s most attractive offers is the luggage express service. Instead of passengers transferring their luggage from the train to the port, their bags will be securely moved to their cruise ship staterooms, ready for arrival. This additional service is available for $35 per bag.

Princess Cruises President John Padgett noted the added convenience for customers. “A Princess cruise is already the best value in travel and this new partnership with Brightline makes it even easier and more enjoyable to sail with us from the top-rated ports in South and Central Florida,” he said.

Passengers of the cruise line can select from 16 daily roundtrip transfers between Fort Lauderdale and Florida:

• Northbound trains from Fort Lauderdale to Orlando, with stops at West Palm Beach and Boca Raton
• Southbound trains from Orlando to Fort Lauderdale, with stops at Boca Raton and West Palm Beach
• Aventura and downtown Miami trains that stop at Orlando and Fort Lauderdale

Princess Cruises will provide complimentary motorcoach services to guests to move between its embarkation terminals and Brightline’s Fort Lauderdale and Orlando stations.

Love Boat cruises from Fort Lauderdale and Port Canaveral

From Fort Lauderdale, cruisers can take weeklong sailings to the Caribbean and longer 10—to 20-day cruises that explore the Panama Canal. 

Meanwhile, the Caribbean Princess will be the first to host a Love Boat cruise from Port Canaveral starting November 27, 2024. Four- to 14-day itineraries allow guests to experience popular Caribbean destinations like Grand Turk, St. Thomas, San Juan, Belize, and Mahogany Bay.

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7 places to retire for people who love cruises

Cruising is back, and it just keeps getting bigger. 

Some 31.7 million passengers sailed on cruises worldwide in 2023 — almost two million more than in prepandemic 2019, according to a report by the Cruise Lines International Association, and cruise ships are expecting to reach 35.7 million passengers in 2024. The industry pumped $138 billion into the global economy in 2022.

About half of cruisers are baby boomers and Generation X, (age 59 and over) and 84% of both groups plan to cruise again, CLIA says. 

The appeal of a cruise lies in its all-inclusive floating hotel/restaurant concept — once you’re on it, it takes you from place to place without any need to pack and unpack. Boarding those big cruise ships the first day can be an all-day affair—and you don’t want to miss your ship, so many people fly in a day early and stay in a hotel near the port. That adds time and expense to the trip. 

So if you cruise a lot, or plan to in retirement, being within driving distance of a major port can open up the world to you.

There are cruise ports all over the coastal U.S., including New York, New Jersey, Alaska, Seattle and Oregon. (Cruise ships will no longer start their journeys from Charleston, S.C. , by the end of 2024, the South Carolina Ports Authority said.) Most of the busiest cruise ports in the U.S. are in warmer climates in Florida, Texas, Louisiana and California. Here are some places to retire less than three hours drive of some of those biggest cruise ports.  

Florida: Close to the three largest cruise ports in the U.S.

There are three major cruise ports in the Fort Lauderdale-Miami area: Port Canaveral, PortMiami, and Port Everglades, and they happen to be the three busiest in the nation.

Florida’s favorable tax structure makes the state popular among retirees, with no state income tax and no tax on Social Security benefits, pensions, IRAs 401(k)s or other retirement income.

Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale’s Port Everglades is a port of call and departure point for most major cruise lines, including Royal Caribbean Disney Holland America, Princess, Celebrity and Viking Ocean Cruises. It’s north of Miami and is known as an embarkation port for cruises to the Bahamas, Bermuda, Cuba, Caribbean and the Panama Canal, as well as repositioning cruises where travelers can often score bargains when a ship is moving to another port for the season.

Fort Lauderdale was chosen as one of Livability ’s 100 best places to live in 2023, thanks to its blend of leisure and luxury, golden beaches, year-round sunshine, easy access to water sports, vibrant arts and entertainment district and diverse economy.

It was also No. 3 on WalletHub’s 2023 list of best places to retire, which considers activities, cost of living, healthcare and quality of life. 

It’s just over an hour’s drive to PortMiami, another major cruise port and three hours from Port Canaveral.  

Fort Lauderdale:

• Pop.: 183,146 (Miami -Ft. Lauderdale metro area is over six million)
• Median home sale price: $573,000 (Redfin Feb. 2024)
• Rent, 2BR average: $1,413 / mo
• Cost of living: 10.5% higher than the U.S. average
• Climate risks: Heat risk is highest: 95/100 (where 100 is worst) according to ClimateCheck.com.

Boca Raton, Fla.

A longtime favorite and traditional retirement community for New Yorkers, Boca was ranked the No. 3 place to retire by Livability in 2016 , citing its slower pace of life than its busier Miami and Fort Lauderdale neighbors just to the south. It’s popularity as a retirement spot is evidenced by its high percentage of residents over age 65 (21%).

Boca Raton was WalletHub’s No. 3 best place to retire in Florida in 2021, ranking in the top four for both healthcare and activities, it was also ranked as a top destination for snowbirds in 2021 . It’s about an hour’s drive to PortMiami, and even closer to Fort Lauderdale’s port.

This upscale community offers a serene environment with luxury amenities, golf courses, and beautiful parks.

Outdoors lovers will enjoy Boca’s beautiful beaches and parks, including Red Reef Park, which has a nature center with trails, a butterfly garden and a sea turtle sanctuary. There are numerous golf courses in the area too.

Boca Raton:

• Pop.: about 99,000
• Median home sale price: $686,250 (Redfin, Feb. 2024)
• Rent, 2BR average: $1,731/mo.
• Cost of living: 14.1% higher than the U.S. average
• Climate risks: The highest risks are heat (96/100) and precipitation (70/100) (where 100 is worst.)

Delray Beach, Fla.

Just north of Boca Raton is the smaller city of Delray Beach, Fla., where homes are much cheaper. Delray is also on the ocean, it has lakes and golf courses, and there’s plenty to do, from wine tastings, festivals and cultural experiences to golf and other sports. Stroll along the boardwalk and look at the wildlife in Wakodahatchee Wetlands, where you can see birds, turtles and alligators. There is an arts district with public art and galleries, too. Delray Beach is a little over an hour’s drive to PortMiami, and even closer to Fort Lauderdale’s port.

Delray Beach, Fla.:

• Pop.: about 67,000
• Median home sale price: $402,500 (Redfin, Feb. 2024)
• Rent, 2 BR average: $1,580 /mo
• Climate risks: Heat (69/100) and precipitation (69/100) (where 100 is worst.)

Close to the Port of New Orleans

The Port of New Orleans is the country’s seventh largest cruise port with cruises to Mexico and the Caribbean on major cruise lines including Carnival, Norwegian and Royal Caribbean. But it is also a launching point for river cruises up the Mississippi.

Baton Rouge, La.

Baton Rouge is about a 90 minute drive from New Orleans. Louisiana’s capital city provides a blend of southern charm, cultural attractions, and outdoor activities. It’s one of the cheapest places on this list, with cost of living and median home prices below the U.S. average. It ranked No. 74 on WalletHub’s 2023 ranking of 189 places to retire. Home to Louisiana State University, the city is packed with football fans during the fall and there’s a lively nightlife scene too.

Baton Rouge:

• Pop.: 221,453
• Median home sale price: $220,000 (Redfin, Feb. 2024)
• Rent, 2BR average: $970/mo.
• Cost of living: 6.8% lower than the U.S. average
• Climate risks: Heat is the highest risk here, (98/100) followed by precipitation (67/100) (where 100 is worst.)

Covington, La.

Located on the north shore of Lake Pontchartrain, Covington is a charming town with scenic parks and a historic downtown known for its art galleries and small public areas called ox lots, where vendors once sold their wares from wagons and oxcarts. It’s less than an hour’s drive across Lake Pontchartrain — on the world’s longest continuous bridge over water — to get to the New Orleans port. Southern Living recently named it a best small town in Louisiana.

• Pop.: around 12,000
• Median home sale price: $281,500 (Redfin, Feb. 2024)
• Rent, 2BR average: $1,065 /mo
• Cost of living: 1.6% lower than the U.S. average
• Climate risks: Heat (95/100) and storms (67/100) are the greatest risks (where 100 is worst.)

Close the Port of Galveston, Texas

Houston itself ranks middling on WalletHub and US News & World Report’s retirement lists — No. 118 and 119 respectively. While the big bustling city has low home prices well below the country’s average, according to ClimateCheck, flooding is a risk here: of 1,675 census tracts in Houston, there are 1,567 where more than half of buildings have significant risk of flooding, as evidenced by 2017’s hurricane Harvey.  

The Woodlands, Texas

But north of the city, The Woodlands , a master-planned community built around the old town square, is 1.5 hours’ drive to the port and flood risks are minimal. The Woodlands is still close to all the amenities of Houston: such as professional sports, museums and shopping. 

The Woodlands has 151 parks and 220 miles of hike and bike trails, and is also known for its golf, corporate headquarters, schools, places of worship, shopping, dining, hospitality and healthcare.

The Woodlands, Texas:

• Pop.: 118,402
• Median home sale price: $537,500 (Redfin, Feb. 2024)
• Rent, 2BR average: $1,525/mo.
• Cost of living: right around the U.S. average
• Climate risks: Heat risk is high here, 98/100 (where 100 is worst.)

Close to ports in Southern California

Over on the West coast, the biggest cruise ports are located in San Diego and the Los Angeles area. Cruises from these ports on major cruise lines take you to places like Mexico’s Baja peninsula, Hawaii, the Mexican Riviera, Panama Canal, Pacific coast, South America and Alaska. You can even take a cruise around the world out of Los Angeles.

If money is no object, there are plenty of lovely oceanside places to retire in San Diego, such as upscale La Jolla or charming Coronado. Median home prices in San Diego and L.A. are above $900,000, and cost of living is well above the U.S. average. But a little farther inland is the Coachella Valley.

Palm Springs, Calif.

Once a popular destination for stars, with streets named after Gene Autry, Frank Sinatra, Bob Hope, Dinah Shore and more, Palm Springs is less than 2.5 hours to the ports in San Diego, Los Angeles and Long Beach. It’s one of California’s longtime favorite retirement communities , drawing active adults from all over the world with its beautiful landscapes, interesting architecture, rich culture, fine restaurants, diverse communities, and outstanding attractions, according to TopRetirements.

The city of Palm Springs can be pricey, but real-estate experts recommended the Coachella Valley, which includes Palm Springs, as a best place to retire in Travel & Leisure last year. There’s an international airport, many types of housing in a range of prices, excellent healthcare, plenty of great shopping, museums and lots of outdoor activities, including golf, tennis and hiking, with Joshua Tree National Park nearby. Summers can be extremely hot in the desert, so the population fluctuates somewhat. 

• Pop.: about 45,000. The Coachella Valley is about 370,000.
• Median home sale price: Palm Springs: $850,000, Coachella: $477,500, Indio $529,500 (Redfin, Feb. 2024)
• Rent, 2BR average: $1,290 (Palm Springs) $1,232/mo. (Riverside county)
• Cost of living: 31.2% higher than the U.S. average
• Climate risks: Drought (98/100) and heat (76/100) are the biggest risks (where 100 is worst.)

Cost of living and rent figures are from Sperling’s Best Places, climate risks are from ClimateCheck.com.

Watch CBS News

Holland America crewmember missing after going overboard before vessel docks at Port Everglades

By Hunter Geisel

Updated on: April 13, 2024 / 4:52 PM EDT / CBS Miami

FORT LAUDERDALE  — A search is underway for a cruise ship crewmember who went overboard while the vessel was still at sea before docking in South Florida this weekend.

Around 11:18 a.m. Saturday, deputies with the Broward County Sheriff's Office Port Everglades District responded to a report of a missing crewmember on a Holland America cruise ship.

According to Holland America, the crew member was reported missing when the Rotterdam vessel docked in Fort Lauderdale on Saturday. After reviewing the security camera video, the crew member went "purposefully overboard" around 9:45 p.m. Friday while the vessel was still en route between Cuba and Key West, the cruise line told CBS News Miami.

BSO's Homicide and Crime Scene units have responded to Port Everglades to investigate, while the U.S. Coast has been notified and is currently searching the sea for the crew member.

"All of us at Holland America Line are deeply saddened by this incident and our thoughts and prayers are with the team member's family at this difficult time," the cruise line shared in a statement with CBS News Miami.

This is a developing story. Tune into CBS News Miami on-air and online for the latest updates.

• South Florida
• Fort Lauderdale
• Cruise Ship
• Broward County

Hunter Geisel is a digital producer at CBS News Miami. Hunter has previously produced digital content for local and national outlets, covering several topics from breaking news and current events to politics and pop culture.

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