Fort Lauderdale Cruise Port Guide: Hotels, Parking & Shuttles

Mar 25, 2024

Patrick O'Halloran

Ready to Set Sail from the “Venice of America”?

Fort Lauderdale Cruise Port — officially known as Port Everglades — is one of the busiest cruise hubs in the world. With its golden beaches, buzzing nightlife, and location just minutes from Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, it’s the perfect place to kick off your Caribbean or Bahamas adventure.

Whether you’re searching for hotels near Fort Lauderdale cruise port with free shuttle service, planning parking, or figuring out airport transfers, this guide has you covered.

    Cruise Lines at Port Everglades

    Port Everglades is a bustling hub that caters to a multitude of cruise lines. Some of the major cruise lines that regularly port at Fort Lauderdale include:

    • Royal Caribbean International: Offering an array of ships, from the family-friendly Oasis-class vessels to the innovative Quantum-class ships.
    • Celebrity Cruises: Known for its luxurious ships and world-class amenities, Celebrity Cruises provides upscale experiences for discerning travelers.
    • Carnival Cruise Line: Perfect for fun-loving vacationers, Carnival offers a variety of itineraries to the Caribbean and beyond.
    • Holland America Line: Ideal for travelers seeking a refined and classic cruise experience with a touch of elegance.
    • Princess Cruises: Renowned for its “Love Boat” legacy, Princess Cruises offers diverse itineraries and exceptional service.

        Copyright: Broward County’s Port Everglades

        Transportation to Fort Lauderdale Cruise Port

        Getting to Port Everglades is a breeze.

        Port Everglades has three entrances:

        • SE 17th St., located at Eisenhower Blvd.
        • State Road 84, located just east of U.S. 1, located at Spangler Blvd.
        • I-595 East, located at Eller Dr.

        Each entrance has a security checkpoint where cruise guests and visitors ages 18 and older are required to provide the following:

        • Government-issued photo ID (driver license or passport)
        • Cruise documents
        • Airport Shuttles: Many Fort Lauderdale hotels with cruise shuttles offer free or low-cost transfers to the port.

        • Rideshare & Taxis: Uber and Lyft are widely available and quick for short hops from the airport.

        • Car Rentals: Several major rental companies have desks near the airport and cruise terminals.

        Pro Tip ⚓: The cruise port is only 3 miles from FLL Airport — about a 10-minute ride.

        Parking at Port Everglades

        different vehicles parking on garage area of the building
          When it comes to parking at Port Everglades, you have several options to choose from. Each option offers its own set of advantages and considerations, so it’s essential to understand the differences before making a decision. The two primary parking options available at Port Everglades are on-site parking and off-site parking. Let’s take a closer look at each of these options.

          On-site parking at Port Everglades

          On-site parking at Port Everglades provides the most convenient and hassle-free parking experience. Located right at the cruise terminal, on-site parking allows you to park your vehicle just steps away from the ship. This option is ideal for those who value convenience and want to minimize the time and effort spent on parking. The on-site parking facilities at Port Everglades are well-maintained, secure, and offer a range of amenities to enhance your cruise experience. However, it’s important to note that on-site parking can be more expensive compared to off-site options. Nevertheless, the added convenience and peace of mind may outweigh the higher cost for many cruisers.

          Parking Fees (garages and lots)

          • $15 daily maximum
          • $19 daily maximum for over-sized vehicles (*)
          • $3 for 0 -1 hours
          • $6 for up to 5 hours, and then $1 per hour thereafter up to daily maximum

          All daily rates begin when you pull the parking ticket from the machine at the garage or parking lot.

          For parking questions or emergencies, contact SP Plus Parking at 954-468-3680.

          Heron Parking Garage 

          The 1,818-space garage services:

          • Cruise Terminal 2 (an air-conditioned elevated passenger bridge with moving sidewalks connects Terminal 2 and the Heron Garage, and is accessed from the 5th floor of the Heron Garage or the elevators on the outside of Cruise Terminal 2)
          • Cruise Terminal 4 Follow the orange directional signs featuring a flying Heron from any of the Port’s entrances.

          Palm Parking Garage

          The 1,966-space garage services:

          • Cruise Terminals 19, 21, 25, 26 and 29
          • Shuttle service is provided between Cruise Terminal 29 and the Palm Parking Garage

          Follow the green directional signs featuring a palm frond from any of the Port’s entrances.

          Surface Lots

          • Parking Lot# 18 has its own 600-space surface parking lot adjacent to the terminal.
          • Parking Lot #19 is a 400-space surface parking lot located between Cruise Terminals 18 and 19. The entrance is on SE 19th Street

          Off-site parking options near Port Everglades

          If you’re looking for a more affordable parking option, off-site parking near Port Everglades is worth considering. Many private parking providers operate in the vicinity of the cruise terminal, offering secure parking facilities at competitive rates. These off-site parking lots are usually located within a short distance from Port Everglades and provide shuttle services to and from the cruise terminal. Opting for off-site parking can save you a significant amount of money, especially for longer cruises. However, it’s important to research and choose a reputable off-site parking provider to ensure the safety and security of your vehicle. Additionally, you’ll need to factor in the time required for shuttle transportation to and from the terminal.

          One option you might consider is using Park By The Port which offers affordable and secure parking with 2 main parking lots.

          • Guaranteed spot with a reservation
          • Car in a safe and secure place while you’re away
          • Timely shuttles to drive you safely to and from your departure point (Shuttle is free for the first 4 people, $8 per person after that)
          • Check them out HERE

          Fort Lauderdale Hotels with Airport and Cruise Shuttles

          Four Points by Sheraton Fort Lauderdale Airport/Cruise Port exterior

            Four Points by Sheraton Fort Lauderdale Airport/Cruise Port

            Reliable comfort • Close to airport & cruise port

            🛫 Airport Shuttle 🚢 Cruise Shuttle 🍳 Breakfast 🏊 Pool
            • ✅ Complimentary airport shuttle
            • ✅ Cruise port transfers available (fee)
            • ✅ On-site restaurant & outdoor pool
            • ✅ 10 min to Fort Lauderdale Cruise Port
            Check Prices No extra cost to you
            Rodeway Inn & Suites Fort Lauderdale Airport & Cruise Port pool area

              Rodeway Inn & Suites Fort Lauderdale Airport & Cruise Port

              Budget-friendly • Free shuttles to airport & cruise port

              🚐 Free Cruise Shuttle 🛫 Airport Shuttle 🍳 Breakfast 🅿️ Parking
              • ✅ Free airport & cruise terminal shuttles
              • ✅ Outdoor pool & on-site restaurant
              • ✅ Extended parking packages available
              • ✅ 5–10 min to Fort Lauderdale Cruise Port
              Check Prices No extra cost to you
              Wyndham Garden Fort Lauderdale Airport & Cruise Port exterior

                Wyndham Garden Ft Lauderdale Airport & Cruise Port

                Modern & convenient • Free shuttles to airport & cruise port

                🛫 Airport Shuttle 🚐 Cruise Shuttle 🍳 Breakfast 🏊 Pool
                • ✅ Free shuttle service to airport & port
                • ✅ Modern rooms & outdoor pool
                • ✅ On-site restaurant & bar
                • ✅ ~10 min to Fort Lauderdale Cruise Port
                Check Prices No extra cost to you

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