FORT LAUDERDALE/HOLLYWOOD AIRPORT
Fort Lauderdale–Hollywood International Airport (FLL)
Fort Lauderdale–Hollywood International Airport (FLL) is the closest airport to Port Everglades and one of the main arrival points for cruise passengers sailing from Fort Lauderdale. Its compact layout, short transfer times, and wide range of transport options make it a practical alternative to Miami International Airport.
This page provides practical information about FLL for cruise travelers, including distance to the cruise port, transportation options, and how the airport fits into different cruise itineraries.
For cruise-related planning, including hotels, parking, and port logistics, see our detailed guide to the Port Everglades cruise port.
Overview of Fort Lauderdale–Hollywood International Airport
FLL is located just south of downtown Fort Lauderdale, between the cities of Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood, and Dania Beach. The airport serves both domestic and international flights and is especially popular with travelers heading to Caribbean and Bahamas cruises.
Compared to larger hubs, FLL is relatively easy to navigate and well connected to nearby cruise terminals. For the most up-to-date airport information, consult the official Fort Lauderdale–Hollywood International Airport website.
Why cruise passengers choose FLL:
- Short distance to Port Everglades
- Generally lower fares than Miami International Airport
- Fast airport-to-port transfers
- Convenient for pre- and post-cruise stays
Distance from FLL to Port Everglades
Fort Lauderdale–Hollywood International Airport is located approximately 3–5 miles (5–8 km) from Port Everglades.
Typical travel time:
- Taxi / Uber / Lyft: 10–15 minutes
- Car rental: 10–15 minutes
- Hotel or private shuttle: 15–25 minutes, depending on stops and traffic
This short distance makes FLL one of the most convenient airports for same-day cruise departures, although arriving at least one day early is still recommended.
Transportation Options from FLL to the Cruise Port
Several transportation options are available between the airport and Port Everglades. The best choice depends on budget, group size, and arrival time.
Taxi & Ride-Share (Uber / Lyft)
The most commonly used option by cruise passengers.
- Available directly outside all terminals
- Charged per vehicle, not per person
- Flexible and usually faster than shuttles
This is often the best value for couples, families, and small groups.
Hotel & Private Shuttles
Some hotels and private operators offer shuttle services between FLL and Port Everglades.
- May operate on fixed schedules
- Can involve waiting time or multiple stops
- Often charged per person
Shuttle availability and pricing vary, so confirmation in advance is essential.
Rental Car
Car rental can be useful for travelers extending their stay in Fort Lauderdale or South Florida.
- Rental desks available at the airport
- Driving routes to the port are straightforward
- Parking at the cruise port is available but charged per day
For short pre-cruise stays, taxis or ride-share services are usually more practical than renting a car.
Some hotels offer shuttle services to the cruise terminals; details vary widely. We compare these options in our Fort Lauderdale cruise shuttle guide.
Arriving Early or Disembarking Late
Many cruise travelers choose to arrive in Fort Lauderdale one day before embarkation or stay overnight after their cruise.
Arriving early:
- Reduces stress from flight delays
- Allows flexibility on embarkation morning
- Makes it easier to handle early check-in times
Disembarking late:
- Helpful for travelers with evening flights
- Allows time to relax or explore nearby areas
- Avoids rushing directly from the ship to the airport
Travelers arriving a day early often choose airport-area or port-adjacent hotels. For a full overview, see our guide on places to stay in Fort Lauderdale before a cruise.
FLL vs Miami International Airport (MIA)
Both airports are commonly used by cruise passengers, but they serve different travel styles.
FLL
- Closest airport to Port Everglades
- Shorter transfer times
- Smaller and easier to navigate
MIA
- More international flight options
- Better for Miami-based pre- or post-cruise stays
- Longer transfer time to Fort Lauderdale cruises
For cruises departing from Fort Lauderdale, FLL is generally the more convenient choice.
Getting Around the Airport Area
The airport area is well connected but not highly walkable.
- Ride-share services are the easiest way to move between the airport, hotels, and the cruise port
- Public transportation exists but is less practical with luggage
- Most cruise passengers rely on taxis, Uber, or hotel-arranged transport
For short stays, having a car is usually unnecessary.
Practical Tips for Cruise Passengers Using FLL
- Allow extra buffer time during peak cruise weekends
- Confirm terminal pickup locations for shuttles in advance
- Keep cruise documents easily accessible after landing
- If flying in on embarkation day, choose early flights
From our experience:
FLL is one of the easiest airports to combine with a Fort Lauderdale cruise, especially for travelers arriving the day before sailing. Traffic delays are rare compared to Miami, but mornings on busy cruise days can still get congested.
Frequently Asked Questions About FLL for Cruise Travelers
Is FLL the closest airport to Port Everglades?
Yes. Fort Lauderdale–Hollywood International Airport is the closest major airport to the cruise port.
Can I fly in on the same day as my cruise?
Yes, due to the short distance, but arriving a day early is strongly recommended.
Is Uber or a shuttle better from FLL to the cruise port?
For most travelers, Uber or Lyft is faster and more flexible than shared shuttles.
How early should I arrive at the airport after a cruise?
Most travelers aim to arrive at FLL at least 2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours before international flights.