Your Ultimate Guide to Port Everglades Cruise Port in Fort Lauderdale

Welcome, cruisers! Are you dreaming of turquoise waters, sandy beaches, and a refreshing sea breeze? Your adventure is closer than you think, and it all starts in sunny Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The Port Everglades Cruise Port is one of the busiest and most vibrant cruise ports in the world, serving as the perfect launchpad for your dream vacation.

Whether you’re planning an exciting Fort Lauderdale cruise to the Caribbean or a quick Bahamas day cruise, we’ve got all the essential information to make your pre-cruise experience smooth and enjoyable. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about sailing from this fantastic South Florida hub!

Setting Sail: Cruise Lines at Port Everglades

Port Everglades is a “home port” to some of the biggest and best names in the cruising industry. You’ll find an incredible variety of ships here, from mega-ships packed with amenities to luxurious, intimate vessels. This variety means more choices for destinations, onboard experiences, and, of course, fun!

Some of the major cruise lines that regularly depart from Port Everglades include:

• Baleària Caribbean: Offering a convenient ferry to the Bahamas, perfect for a quick getaway to Grand Bahama or Bimini.
• Celebrity Cruises: Offering modern luxury with sophisticated dining, stunning design, and exceptional service.
• Holland America Line: A premium cruise line with a rich history and a focus on immersive travel experiences.
• Princess Cruises: Known for their classic cruise experience, taking guests to destinations near and far.
• Royal Caribbean International: Home to some of the world’s largest and most innovative ships, like those in the Oasis and Icon classes.
• Silversea Cruises: An ultra-luxury line providing an all-inclusive, personalized cruising experience.
• Viking Ocean Cruises: Specializing in destination-focused cruises on elegant, smaller ships.

With nearly 4 million passengers passing through annually, Port Everglades truly is a bustling gateway to paradise.

Your Pre-Cruise Stay: Top Hotels Near Port Everglades

Arriving a day or two before your cruise is always a great idea. It lets you relax, explore Fort Lauderdale, and eliminates the stress of same-day travel. Luckily, there are dozens of fantastic hotels just minutes from the cruise terminals.

Sweet Dreams & a Free Ride: Hotels with Airport & Port Shuttles

Want to make your journey even easier? Many nearby hotels offer complimentary shuttle services to and from both Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) and the Port Everglades Cruise Port. This is a huge convenience and can save you money on transportation! Be sure to confirm shuttle details and availability when you book.

Here are some popular hotels known for offering shuttle packages or services:

• Embassy Suites by Hilton 17th Street
• Renaissance Fort Lauderdale Cruise Port Hotel
• Hilton Fort Lauderdale Marina
• Hyatt Place Fort Lauderdale 17th Street Convention Center
• Crowne Plaza Ft. Lauderdale Airport/Cruise
• Holiday Inn Express & Suites Ft. Lauderdale Airport/Cruise Port
• Rodeway Inn & Suites Fort Lauderdale Airport & Cruise Port

Disclaimer: Hotel shuttle services and policies can change. It’s always best to call the hotel directly to confirm shuttle availability, schedules, and any potential fees before booking.

A Taste of Fort Lauderdale: Delicious Dining Near the Port

Before you indulge in the amazing food on your cruise ship, get a taste of the local Fort Lauderdale flavor! The area around 17th Street and the port is packed with excellent dining options for every palate and budget.

• For Fresh Seafood: Head to 15th Street Fisheries for waterfront dining and a chance to feed the giant tarpon from the dock.
• For a Casual Bite: Boatyard offers a fantastic ambiance with beautiful Intracoastal Waterway views and a diverse menu.
• For Italian Classics: La Spada’s Hoagies is a local legend for amazing sandwiches, while Louie Bossi’s Ristorante Bar Pizzeria on Las Olas Boulevard offers a more traditional sit-down experience.
• For a Lively Atmosphere: Coconuts is a local favorite with a laid-back vibe, great food, and stunning waterfront views where you can watch the boats go by.

Gateway to Paradise: Your Bahamas Day Cruise

Not ready for a full week-long cruise? No problem! Fort Lauderdale is the perfect starting point for a quick getaway. The proximity to the islands makes a ferry to the Bahamas an incredibly popular option. You can hop over to Bimini or Grand Bahama Island for a day or a short overnight stay, enjoy the beaches, casinos, and local culture, and be back in no time. It’s the ultimate mini-vacation!

We hope this guide helps you plan the perfect start to your next sea adventure from the Port Everglades Cruise Port. Happy sailing!