Fort Lauderdale
Fort Lauderdale, Florida, is a major cruise hub located on the Atlantic coast. The port, officially known as Port Everglades, is one of the busiest in the world, with a year-round cruising schedule. Fort Lauderdale is often referred to as the "Venice of America" due to its extensive canal system and is a city defined by its beautiful beaches, upscale shops, and a vibrant arts scene. For cruisers, it's a convenient and exciting place to start or end a cruise, with a port that is modern and well-equipped.
⛵ Port Introduction
The cruise port in Fort Lauderdale is Port Everglades. It is a large, deep-water port that can accommodate all sizes of cruise ships, with multiple terminals spread across the port. Your ship will dock directly at a pier, so no tender is required. The walk from the gangway to the terminal building is very short, and you will be processed through the terminal before getting transportation to the city.
⚓ Terminal Information
Port Everglades has eight cruise terminals (Terminals 2, 4, 18, 19, 21, 25, 26, and 29), and each is modern and fully accessible. You can confirm your terminal number with your cruise line beforehand. The terminals are large, permanent buildings designed to handle a high volume of passengers efficiently.
🚻 Terminal Facilities
Each air-conditioned terminal at Port Everglades is well-equipped with amenities for your comfort. You'll find a large, comfortable waiting area with plenty of seating, restrooms, and vending machines for snacks and beverages. All terminals have complimentary Wi-Fi. Tour pickups, taxis, and ride-sharing services are all located just outside the terminal buildings, with clear signage to guide you.
🗣️ Language
The local language is English. You will have no problem navigating, communicating, or exploring the area.
💰 Money
The currency is the U.S. Dollar (USD). Credit cards are universally accepted at restaurants, shops, and attractions. Cash is also widely used. ATMs are easy to find in the city, and many are located in the cruise terminals.
🚗 Transportation
Port Everglades is not a walkable port, as it is a working commercial and industrial hub. Your options for getting around start with ground transportation from the terminal.
Taxis/Ride-Sharing: Taxis are available at the terminal, and Uber and Lyft are very popular and convenient options. The port is very close to the airport and many hotels, so rides are typically short and affordable.
Public Transportation: Fort Lauderdale has a public bus system, Broward County Transit (BCT). Some routes, like the 40, stop near the port, but they can be a bit challenging to use for tourists. The city also offers a free community shuttle called LauderGO! that serves different parts of the city.
Water Taxi: This is a fantastic and scenic way to get around Fort Lauderdale. The Water Taxi has multiple stops along the Intracoastal Waterway and the New River, and you can get a pass for the day to hop on and off at places like Las Olas Boulevard and Fort Lauderdale Beach. There is a stop near the Hilton Fort Lauderdale Marina, which is a short taxi or ride-share from the cruise port.
♿ Accessibility
Fort Lauderdale has an accessibility rating of 7 out of 10. The cruise terminals are fully accessible. The city of Fort Lauderdale is committed to accessibility, and many of its attractions, including the beach promenade and museums, are well-equipped for people with limited mobility.
🚶♀️ The best way to get to town from cruise port
The best way to get from the cruise port to the main attractions in Fort Lauderdale is to take a taxi or a ride-share service. The port is very close to the city's key attractions, and a ride will be short and affordable.
🚽 Toilet
Public restrooms are generally available and clean in Fort Lauderdale, especially at tourist attractions, museums, and along the beach promenade. They are free to use.
💊 Drugstore
Walgreens: 1680 SE 17th St, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316. This is very close to the port, on the corner of Eisenhower Boulevard and 17th Street.
CVS Pharmacy: 1700 S. Federal Hwy, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316. This is also a short distance from the port.
✨ Authentic Experience
Take the Water Taxi and Explore the "Venice of America": Instead of a standard taxi, take the Water Taxi for a unique tour of Fort Lauderdale. The taxi offers a narrated cruise along the Intracoastal Waterway and the New River, where you'll get to see the luxurious mansions and superyachts of "Millionaire's Row." It's a fun and informative way to explore the city from a different perspective.
Stroll Las Olas Boulevard: Get off the Water Taxi or take a short ride from the port to Las Olas Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale's upscale hub for shopping and dining. This charming street is lined with palm trees, art galleries, boutiques, and outdoor cafes. It’s the perfect place to people-watch, sip a latte, and enjoy the sunny Florida atmosphere.
Visit the Bonnet House Museum & Gardens: For a taste of history and nature, visit the Bonnet House Museum & Gardens. This beautiful 35-acre estate is a preserved historic home that offers a look into old Florida. You can tour the house, which is filled with original art and artifacts, and then walk through the lush gardens and natural mangrove habitats. It's a peaceful and authentic escape from the city.
