PORT EVERGLADES GUIDE
Fort Lauderdale Cruise Port & Terminals Guide
Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, Florida is one of the busiest and most important cruise ports in the United States.
Millions of passengers sail from here each year, with major lines like Royal Caribbean, Carnival Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, and others using the port as a home or embarkation point.
This guide provides practical, up-to-date information for cruise passengers, including terminal layouts, how to get to and from the port, embarkation and disembarkation tips, parking overview, and nearby transport options.
Our focus is on real cruise-day logistics and preparation rather than hotel marketing or general tourism.
For accommodation before or after your cruise, see our seperate guides on where to stay in Fort Lauderdale and hotels offering shuttle service to Port Everglades.
Port Everglades in Florida
Overview of Port Everglades
Port Everglades is a deep-water port located on Florida’s southeastern coast in the cities of Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood, and Dania Beach. It’s one of the busiest cruise ports in the world and a major gateway to the Caribbean, Bahamas, and beyond.
The port is also used for cargo operations, but the cruise terminals are located in clearly designated areas designed for passenger embarkation and disembarkation with efficient access roads, parking, taxis, ride-shares, and shuttle services.
Cruise Terminals & Cruise Lines
Port Everglades is one of the world’s busiest cruise ports and serves multiple major cruise lines across several modern terminals. Unlike some ports where terminals are clustered together, Port Everglades is spread across different sections, which makes knowing your assigned terminal especially important on embarkation day.
Terminal assignments can vary by sailing date and ship, so passengers should always confirm their departure terminal with their cruise line shortly before arrival.
Below is an overview of the main cruise terminals at Port Everglades and the cruise lines they typically serve.
Cruise Terminals at Port Everglades:
- Terminal 2 – Princess Cruises (Carnival Corporation)
- Terminal 4 – Disney Cruise Line (distinctive “Finding Nemo”–themed terminal)
- Terminal 18 – Royal Caribbean International (serves the largest cruise ships in the world)
- Terminal 19 – Holland America Line
- Terminal 21 – Carnival Cruise Line (also used by Holland America and Princess on select sailings)
- Terminal 25 – Celebrity Cruises
- Terminal 26 – Holland America Line
- Terminal 29 – Celebrity Cruises, Holland America Line, Royal Caribbean
Practical Terminal Tips for Cruise Passengers
Terminal locations matter
Port Everglades terminals are spread across different port sections. Travel time within the port can vary, so following port signage once inside is more reliable than relying on GPS alone.
Arrival flow is similar, layout is not
Most terminals follow the same process; curbside drop-off, luggage handling, security screening, check-in, and waiting areas. But the size, parking proximity, and traffic flow differ by terminal.
Larger ships mean busier terminals
Terminals serving the largest ships (such as Terminal 18) can feel noticeably busier during peak embarkation windows. Arriving earlier in the day often results in a smoother experience.
Parking and drop-off vary by terminal
Each terminal has designated drop-off lanes and nearby parking garages or surface lots. Parking availability and walking distances differ, so checking your terminal in advance helps avoid last-minute confusion.
Official Port Everglades Terminal Map
For the most up-to-date terminal layouts, access roads, and parking locations, consult the official Port Everglades cruise terminal map provided by Broward County.
👉 View the official Port Everglades cruise terminal map (PDF)
Getting to Port Everglades
Port Everglades is located just south of Downtown Fort Lauderdale, between Fort Lauderdale–Hollywood International Airport (FLL) and the coastline. The port is well connected to major highways and is generally easy to reach by car, taxi, or ride-share.
Driving to Port Everglades
If you’re driving yourself or being dropped off, use the official port address for navigation:
Port Everglades
1850 Eller Drive, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316
Clearly marked road signs guide vehicles to the correct terminal once you approach the port. The main access route is via Interstate I-595 East, which leads directly to the port entrance.
Practical tip:
Once inside the port, follow overhead terminal signage rather than GPS instructions. Terminals are spread out, and GPS directions can be less reliable within port grounds.
From Fort Lauderdale–Hollywood International Airport (FLL)
Fort Lauderdale–Hollywood International Airport is the closest airport to Port Everglades.
- Distance: approx. 3 miles (5 km)
- Typical travel time: 10–15 minutes, depending on traffic
Taxis, Uber, and Lyft are readily available at the airport. For most cruise passengers, ride-share services offer the best balance of speed and convenience.
From Miami International Airport (MIA)
Miami International Airport is located south of Fort Lauderdale.
- Distance: approx. 30 miles (48 km)
- Typical travel time: 40–60 minutes, depending on traffic
Most travelers use I-95 North followed by I-595 East to reach Port Everglades. Traffic can be heavy during weekday rush hours and on peak cruise weekends.
Taxi, Uber & Lyft
Taxi and ride-share services are widely used for travel to Port Everglades.
- Pricing varies based on distance, time of day, and demand
- Ride-share services are charged per vehicle, making them cost-effective for couples or small groups
- Surge pricing may occur on busy embarkation mornings
For most cruise passengers, Uber or Lyft is the most flexible and predictable option.
Cruise Line Transfers
Many cruise lines offer airport-to-port transfer services on embarkation day.
- Must be booked in advance through the cruise line
- Usually charged per person
- Operate only on embarkation or disembarkation day
While convenient, cruise line transfers are often more expensive than taxis or ride-shares, especially for families or groups.
Public Transportation
Public transportation is available in Fort Lauderdale, but it is not ideal for cruise passengers with luggage.
Reaching Port Everglades by bus typically requires multiple transfers and additional walking. Public transit is best suited for light luggage or budget-focused travelers familiar with the area.
From our experience
We’ve reached Port Everglades using different transport options across multiple cruises. Arrivals early in the morning tend to be smooth, while traffic can build quickly mid-morning, especially on weekends when several ships embark at the same time.
Allowing extra buffer time, particularly if traveling from Miami or during peak cruise season, makes embarkation noticeably less stressful.
Arriving from Miami? See our detailed guide on getting to Port Everglades from Miami, including airport transfers and travel times.
Transportation on Cruise Day
On embarkation day, most cruise passengers reach Port Everglades by taxi, ride-share, or cruise line transfer. The port is compact but busy, and traffic patterns can change quickly depending on sailing schedules.
Taxi, Uber & Lyft
Taxis and ride-share services such as Uber and Lyft are the most commonly used transport options on cruise day.
- Available throughout Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood, and Dania Beach
- Charged per vehicle, making them cost-effective for couples and small groups
- Drop-off takes place directly at your assigned cruise terminal
Good to know:
Ride-share pricing can increase during peak embarkation windows, especially mid-morning on weekends. Leaving earlier than your check-in window often results in a smoother arrival.
Cruise Line Transfers
Most major cruise lines offer airport-to-port transfer services on embarkation day.
- Must be booked in advance through the cruise line
- Charged per person
- Coordinated with ship departure times
These transfers are convenient for first-time cruisers but are usually more expensive than taxis or ride-shares, particularly for families.
Hotel Shuttles
Some hotels offer shuttle service to Port Everglades, either included or for a small fee.
- Typically operate on fixed schedules
- Seats may be limited
- Often require advance sign-up at the front desk
Shuttle services can work well for budget-focused travelers but offer less flexibility than taxis or Uber, especially if your embarkation time changes.
Timing Tip
Port Everglades handles multiple large ships on the same day. Early mornings are typically reserved for disembarkation (around 7:00–9:30 a.m.), while new cruise passengers usually begin arriving from late morning onward.
The busiest traffic period often occurs between approximately 9:30 and 11:30 a.m., when departing passengers, arriving guests, taxis, shuttles, and cruise staff overlap.
Arriving earlier than your assigned check-in window or allowing extra buffer time can make embarkation noticeably smoother.
Port Everglades Parking (Overview)
Port Everglades offers on-site parking facilities for cruise passengers, including two main parking garages and several surface lots, all within walking distance of most cruise terminals. Reservations are not accepted for port parking; spaces are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Official Parking Facilities
Heron Parking Garage
This garage has approximately 1,800 spaces and serves mainly Cruise Terminals 2 and 4. An elevated covered walkway connects Heron Garage with Terminal 2, making it convenient for passengers sailing from those locations.
Palm Parking Garage
With nearly 2,000 spaces, Palm Garage serves other major cruise terminals such as Terminals 19, 21, 25, 26 and 29. Shuttle service is available between Palm Garage and Terminal 29 for passengers who choose to park there.
Surface Parking Lots
In addition to the two garages, there are multiple surface lots located near other terminals (including a lot adjacent to Terminal 18 and overflow lots such as Parking Lot 19 between Terminals 18 and 19).
Parking Fees and Options
Port Everglades parking is structured as follows:
- $4 for 0–1 hour
- $8 up to 5 hours
- $20 daily maximum for standard vehicles
- $25 daily maximum for oversized vehicles (those that exceed normal width or height)
Rates begin when you take a ticket upon entering a garage or surface lot. There are no reservations or pre-payments accepted for port parking.
porteverglades.net
Accessibility & Security
- All official parking facilities are secure and well-lit.
- Accessible parking is available with easy access to walkways, crosswalks, and elevators.
- Surface lots are located close to terminals, but distances vary, check signage on arrival.
Practical Tips
- Early arrival matters: While port lots are large, they can fill quickly on peak cruise days, especially when multiple ships depart on the same morning.
- Oversized vehicles: If you’re driving an RV or vehicle that exceeds standard dimensions, the Heron and Palm garages may have height restrictions, contact port services if unsure.
- Surface lots near Terminal 18 are often the closest option if your ship departs there, but distances and walking times vary.
Alternative: Hotel Cruise Parking
Many cruise passengers choose hotel-based cruise parking instead of port parking.
- Often includes parking for the duration of the cruise with a one-night stay
- Can be more cost-effective for 7-night or longer cruises
- Requires advance booking and confirmation
From our experience
Parking at Port Everglades is generally straightforward and well organized, especially for short cruises where convenience matters most. For longer itineraries, however, daily port parking costs add up quickly. In those cases, hotel cruise parking or park-and-cruise packages often provide better value, as long as parking duration and conditions are confirmed in advance.
Best Time to Cruise from Fort Lauderdale
Fort Lauderdale offers cruise departures year-round, but conditions at the port can feel very different depending on the season.
Peak cruise season typically runs from late fall through spring, when demand is highest and ships sail at full capacity. During these months, Port Everglades handles heavy passenger volumes, especially on weekends. Embarkation and traffic around the port can feel noticeably busier, even though operations remain efficient.
Summer and early fall generally bring warmer temperatures, higher humidity, and fewer crowds at the port. Cruise fares are often lower, but this period coincides with Atlantic hurricane season, which can occasionally affect itineraries or cause schedule adjustments.
From a port-logistics perspective, Port Everglades functions smoothly throughout the year. Seasonal differences matter more for pricing, crowds, and weather, rather than for embarkation quality itself.
👉 If your priority is calmer port conditions, avoiding major holidays and peak winter weekends can make embarkation feel less rushed.
Arriving Early or Disembarking Late
Many cruise passengers choose to arrive in Fort Lauderdale one day before sailing or stay overnight after disembarkation, especially when flights are involved.
Arriving early (before embarkation day)
Arriving the day before your cruise significantly reduces stress. Morning traffic, flight delays, or unexpected road congestion can quickly complicate same-day arrivals. Staying overnight allows you to reach Port Everglades relaxed and on your own schedule.
This is especially recommended if:
- You’re flying in from another state or country
- Your cruise departs during peak season or on a weekend
- You’re traveling with family or large luggage
If you’re arriving early or staying after your cruise, there are several attractions and waterfront areas close to the port. See our guide to things to do near Port Everglades for short visits and longer stays.
Staying after your cruise (late disembarkation or next-day flight)
After disembarkation, many passengers face early baggage collection and long airport lines. Booking a hotel for the night after your cruise can make the return journey far more comfortable, especially if your flight departs later in the day or the following morning.
Port Everglades is close to Fort Lauderdale–Hollywood International Airport, but traffic around the port can still build quickly on busy turnaround days.
From our experience:
Arriving early almost always leads to a smoother cruise start, while staying an extra night after disembarkation helps avoid the rush of same-day flights and crowded terminals.
Practical Cruise Day Tips for Port Everglades
Cruise days at Port Everglades are generally well organized, but a little preparation goes a long way in avoiding unnecessary stress.
Arrive with buffer time
Even though the port is easy to access, traffic can build quickly on embarkation mornings, especially between late morning and early afternoon. Aim to arrive earlier than your assigned check-in window when possible.
Follow port signage, not just GPS
Once you enter the port area, overhead signs to the cruise terminals are more reliable than navigation apps. Terminals are spread out, and GPS sometimes routes drivers incorrectly within the port.
Weekends are busier than weekdays
Most large ships sail on weekends. Saturday and Sunday embarkation days usually mean higher traffic volumes, longer lines, and fuller parking facilities.
Drop-off and parking areas differ by terminal
Each terminal has its own traffic flow and parking setup. Knowing your terminal in advance helps avoid last-minute lane changes or unnecessary walking.
Keep documents accessible
Have your boarding pass, passport, and luggage tags ready before arrival. This speeds up curbside drop-off and check-in, especially during peak periods.
Allow extra time if using hotel or third-party transport
Shuttles and shared transfers often follow fixed schedules and can be delayed during busy cruise mornings. If timing is critical, taxis or ride-shares usually offer more flexibility.
Frequently Asked Questions About Port Everglades
Most cruise lines recommend arriving within your assigned check-in window, but arriving slightly earlier helps avoid traffic and longer lines, especially during peak season or on weekends.
Yes. The port is well signposted and designed for cruise traffic. Terminals are spread out, so confirming your terminal in advance is important.
It’s possible, but not recommended. Flight delays, traffic, or airport congestion can quickly create stress. Arriving the day before is safer, especially for international or early-departure cruises.
Fort Lauderdale–Hollywood International Airport (FLL) is the closest and most convenient. Miami International Airport (MIA) is also used but requires longer transfers.
Yes. Weekends handle the highest passenger volumes. Traffic, parking demand, and terminal activity are typically heavier on Saturdays and Sundays.
Please contact us if any information is incorrect or not up-to-date.
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