Cruise Port Fort Lauderdale Guide: Essential Tips for Travelers

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For those planning a cruise from Fort Lauderdale, knowing the ins and outs of Port Everglades can make your trip smoother and more enjoyable.

Whilst it may not be quite as well known as its fellow Florida cruise ports Miami and Port Canaveral, Fort Lauderdale is one of the busiest cruise ports in the world, handling millions of passengers every year.

Currently, there are 10 cruise lines sailing out of Port Everglades – and there are even more planned for the future.

This sometimes-forgotten port is expected to welcome almost 4 million passengers in 2024.

There are many great reasons to sail from this port.

It is closer to an airport than any other in the US. It is very conveniently located less than 2 miles from Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL).

Also, it is only 40 minutes away from Miami International Airport (MIA).

If you are arriving the day before your cruise (as you always should) there are plenty of excellent hotels, eating spots and things to do in the port.

Let’s take a look at the things you need to know before you sail out of Port Everglades, Fort Lauderdale.

PORT EVERGLADES: OVERVIEW

Address: 1850 Eller Drive, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316

Navigating the port itself is straightforward, with clear signage and multiple entrances such as the Midport entrance and the entrance at 1850 Eller Drive.

PORT EVERGLADES

Passengers can stay connected with complimentary Wi-Fi access available throughout Port Everglades.

Terminals and Facilities

Port Everglades has 8 cruise terminals. Each terminal is fully accessible and equipped to handle large passenger volumes efficiently.

Port Everglades offers a variety of cruise itineraries. These range from short 3-5 night cruises to the Bahamas to longer 5-21 day Caribbean voyages.

Here are the cruise lines that sail from Fort Lauderdale.

Terminal 2: Princess Cruises
Terminal 4: Disney Cruise Lines
Terminal 18: Royal Caribbean
Terminal 19: Holland America
Terminal 21: Holland America and Princess Cruises
Terminal 25: Celebrity Cruises
Terminal 26: Holland America
Terminal 29: Celebrity Cruises, Holland America and Royal Caribbean

Accessibility

All terminals are designed to be accessible to disabled persons. Parking fees are waived for disabled individuals driving their vehicles to the port.

Motorists picking up cruise passengers can wait in a free cell phone lot until their party is ready for pickup.

For more detailed information, you can visit Port Everglades’ official page.

One benefit that few people realize is that you can use Global Entry on your arrival back in the port and speed up the debarkation process as you can access the shorter lines.

Getting to Fort Lauderdale Cruise Port

There are a number of ways to travel to Port Everglades:

• Air
• Car
• Train

ARRIVING BY AIR

The port is served by 3 major airports:

• Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport
• Miami International Airport
• Orlando International Airport – I know it’s not close but there are reasons to fly here.

Some cruise lines offer a shuttle from the airport to the cruise port. Whilst this is usually not the least expensive option it is convenient if you are arriving on the same day as your cruise departs.

But there are other ways to make the transfer – here is how you can do this from each airport.

Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport

The closest airport to Fort Lauderdale Cruise Port is Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL). It is only a few miles away and your journey will usually take less than 10 minutes.

A taxi or rideshare service such as Uber or Lyft from FLL to the port typically costs between $13 and $19.

You can also reserve the Go Airport Shuttle. The pick-up point is at the front of the airport and there are representatives inside to assist you. Be sure to reserve your trip in advance.

Miami International Airport (MIA)

For those flying into Miami International Airport (MIA), the distance is further, but it is still only around a 40-minute journey to the port.

Even though it is further, it may be a better option with most major airlines flying there including Alaska, American, Delta, Frontier, JetBlue, Southwest, Spirit, and United.

As MIA is a major international hub it will also be the most likely arrival airport for those traveling from overseas.

The cost to the port ranges from $55 to $90 with rideshare services.

Pickup zones are outside doors 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 11, 15, 20 and 23 on the ground arrivals level. Head to the middle median for pick-up.

Orlando International Airport MCO

MCO is not exactly the obvious airport to fly into if you are sailing from For Lauderdale – but there may be a reason that you want to do this.

The reason? If you want to combine your cruise with a visit to Walt Disney World or Universal Studios Orlando. With Disney cruises now sailing from Port Everglades this may be a sensible option.

It is a 209-mile drive by car, but there is now a better option of how to travel between Orlando and Fort Lauderdale.

The Brightline Train.

The train is fast. But not super fast. Although it does reach speeds of 125 mph on certain stretches, it still takes

How do you get to the Fort Lauderdale Port from the Brightline station?

Unfortunately, it isn’t close enough to walk, but it is only 4 miles away. You can take a taxi or ride-sharing service.

ARRIVING BY CAR

Driving to Fort Lauderdale Cruise Port is a popular choice for those within reasonable driving distance.

Parking is available at the port, with options for both short-term and long-term stays.

PORT EVERGLADES

The secure parking facilities charge a daily rate, making it ideal for travelers leaving their car for the duration of their cruise.

Directions are straightforward, with major highways like I-95 and US-1 offering direct routes to the port.

From the Florida Turnpike North or South: Take Exit 54 to I-595 East. Follow Exit 12B to Port Everglades.

From I-95 South: Take Exit 26 to I-595 East. Take Exit 12B to Port Everglades.

From I-95 North: Take Exit 24 to I-595 East. Take Exit 12B to Port Everglades.

From I-75 North or South: Take Exit 19 to I-595 East. Take Exit 12B to Port Everglades.

Upon arrival, there are clear signs directing you to the port terminals.

Parking at Port Everglades

Parking is available at the port two on-site parking garages and three parking lots. There are options for both short-term and long-term stays.

Prebooking is not available but with 5,500 parking spaces, you won’t have a problem finding somewhere to park.

If you are leaving from either Terminal 2 or 4, head to the 1,818-space Heron Parking Garage.

This has an air-conditioned bridge on Level 5 that leads directly to Terminal 2.

The Palm Parking Garage serves Terminals 19, 21, 25, 26 and 29. There is a shuttle service to Terminal 29.

Additionally, Lot A serves Terminals 19 and 26, Lot B serves Terminals 18 and 19, and Lot C serves Terminal 18.

Port Everglades’ on-site parking costs $20 per day or $25 for oversized vehicles. If you’re parking for less than a day, it’s $4 for the first hour and $8 for up to five hours.

Visit Official Port Everglades Parking Info to check current rates.

For more detailed information, you can visit Port Everglades’ official page.

Port Everglades also caters to disabled guests with designated parking spaces near the terminal, ensuring accessible routes.

Disabled parking is available in both on-site garages and lots. The parking facilities are compliant with ADA standards, offering ramps, elevators, and reserved spots close to the elevators or main entrances.

Off-Site Parking

If you want to save some money and are prepared to take the less convenient option then consider parking off site. You will have to take a shuttle from these parking lots, but it can save you some money.

Park by the Ports is a 10-minute ride from the port, but it offers parking for $9.99 per day plus taxes/fees. There is a free shuttle for the first 4 passengers in the vehicle and $8 for others over that.

Park ‘N Go is located just blocks from the Port and offers rates from $12.00 per day, plus taxes and fees. Those are advance booking rates which are higher if you don’t book ahead. It has a free shuttle to take you to the Port.

HOTELS IN FORT LAUDERDALE

As we always say, you should always arrive at least the day before your cruise departs. Stuff happens and you do not want to be that person who misses their cruise departure.

And if you have the opportunity to stay a little longer, Fort Lauderdale is a great place to spend some time with lots of things to do, great dining and of course the beach.

Embassy Suites by Hilton Fort Lauderdale 17th Street is 8 minutes’ walk from the Fort Lauderdale Port Everglades Cruise Port. It has an outdoor pool, on-site restaurant, and bar.

You can’t beat this for location close to the port. It has complimentary daily cooked-to-order breakfast, a fully equipped fitness center and complimentary evening reception. The shops and restaurants of Las Olas Boulevard are also easily accessible.

Hyatt Place Fort Lauderdale Cruise Port & Convention Center is a great value hotel option close to the Port. It is family-friendly, has a free continental breakfast, outdoor pool and a gym. There is a shuttle to the cruise port for $9 per person.

Four Points by Sheraton Fort Lauderdale Airport/Cruise Port provides free shuttle services and close proximity to both the port and local attractions. The hotel is 2 mi from Las Olas Boulevard entertainment district.

Crowne Plaza Hotel & Resorts Fort Lauderdale Airport/ Cruise is another good option. A free shuttle connects you with Fort Lauderdale International Airport 1 mile away. It is just a few minutes’ walk from the vibrant Riverwalk.

The Fairfield Inn & Suites Fort Lauderdale Airport-Cruise Port is a budget-friendly option. Located near the airport, it offers competitive rates if booked in advance.

If you are looking for luxury on the beach the Four Seasons Hotel and Residences Fort Lauderdale offers 5-star accommodations.

The W Fort Lauderdale is also right on the beach and close to the Port. If you are looking for a modern ultra chic hotel with exceptional amenities this is a great option.

Related: Port Canaveral Cruise Parking