USA Cruise Ports
Port Everglades Cruise Terminal Information
A first-time cruiser's guide to sailing from Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
Port Everglades is the cruise port serving Fort Lauderdale, Florida. It is a major cruise homeport and is especially convenient because it is only a short distance from Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL).
This guide explains what first-time cruisers need to know before arriving at Port Everglades, from finding the correct terminal and choosing parking to getting from the airport, checking in, and enjoying time in the Fort Lauderdale area before or after a cruise.
Port Everglades Overview
Port Everglades is a large, year-round cruise homeport in the heart of South Florida. Its location near Fort Lauderdale's beaches, hotels, highways, and airport makes it a convenient starting point for Caribbean cruises, longer voyages, and seasonal itineraries.
The port is part of Broward County and is separate from the city of Fort Lauderdale, although the two are closely connected. Because several ships can be in port at the same time, Port Everglades can feel busy on embarkation day. The process is much easier when you confirm your terminal, arrival time, transportation, and parking plan before leaving home.
Address and Port Entrances
The general Port Everglades address is:
Port Everglades
1850 Eller Drive
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316
View Port Everglades on Google Maps
Terminal Addresses:
Terminal 2 - 1801 SE 20th St, Fort Lauderdale
Terminal 4 - 1800 SE 20th St, Fort Lauderdale
Terminal 18 - 1901 SE 32nd Street, Hollywood, FL
Terminal 19 - 2019 Eller Drive, Hollywood, FL
Terminal 21 - 2021 Eller Drive, Hollywood, FL
Terminal 25 - 2025 Eller Drive, Hollywood, FL
Terminal 26 - 2026 Eller Drive, Hollywood, FL
Terminal 29 - 2200 SE 35th St, Hollywood, FL
Check your cruise line terminal assignment for additional information.
The port has three main entrances. Your cruise documents and the signs on the approach roads will direct you to the entrance and terminal for your ship:
- 17th Street entrance: At Eisenhower Boulevard, convenient for the Northport area.
- State Road 84 entrance: Just east of U.S. 1 at Spangler Boulevard.
- I-595 East entrance: At Eller Drive, useful for drivers arriving from I-95, I-75, or Florida's Turnpike.
All entrances have security checkpoints. Adults may be asked to show a government-issued photo ID and cruise documents, and vehicles are subject to inspection. Weapons are not permitted on port property.
Port Everglades Cruise Terminals
Port Everglades has several cruise terminals. The terminal assignment depends on your ship and sailing date, so do not rely on a terminal number from a previous trip or assume every sailing by the same cruise line uses the same building.
| Terminal | What to know | Nearby parking |
|---|---|---|
| Terminal 2 | Served by an elevated, air-conditioned passenger bridge connected to the Heron Garage. | Heron Parking Garage |
| Terminal 4 | One of the port's established cruise terminals; check your sailing documents for the current assignment. | Heron Parking Garage |
| Terminals 18 and 19 | Midport terminals used for selected cruise ship calls. | Parking Lot A, Parking Lot B, or Parking Lot C |
| Terminals 21 and 25 | Midport terminals that can serve large and specialty cruise ships. | Palm Parking Garage or nearby lots |
| Terminals 26 and 29 | Check the cruise line's boarding documents for the terminal and drop-off lane. | Palm Parking Garage, with shuttle service for Terminal 29 |
Important: Confirm the exact terminal, parking area, and luggage drop-off point with your cruise line shortly before your sailing. Port signs and staff can help once you enter, but knowing the destination in advance saves time.
Which Cruise Lines Sail from Port Everglades?
Port Everglades welcomes ships from a variety of cruise lines. Depending on the season and itinerary, you may see ships from:
- Carnival Cruise Line
- Celebrity Cruises
- Disney Cruise Line
- Holland America Line
- MSC Cruises
- Norwegian Cruise Line
- Princess Cruises
- Royal Caribbean
- Silversea Cruises and other luxury or specialty cruise lines
Schedules, terminal assignments, and cruise lines can change. Your booking confirmation and online check-in information are the best sources for your particular sailing.
Directions and Transportation
Driving to Port Everglades
Port Everglades is easy to reach from South Florida's major highways:
- From I-95 south: Take Exit 26 to I-595 East, then follow the signs to Port Everglades.
- From I-95 north: Take Exit 24 to I-595 East, then follow the port signs.
- From I-75: Take Exit 19 to I-595 East.
- From Florida's Turnpike: Take Exit 54 to I-595 East.
Color-coded signs and port wayfinding signs direct drivers to cruise terminals, parking garages, and drop-off areas. Allow extra time when several ships are departing, especially on weekends and holidays.
Rideshare and taxis
Uber, Lyft, taxis, and private car services are common ways to reach the port. Tell the driver your cruise line and terminal number, not just “Port Everglades,” because the port covers a large area. From FLL, the ride is short, but traffic and luggage claim can add time. A taxi from the airport has historically been around $18–$21, although fares can change.
Public transportation and rental cars
Broward County Transit serves the Fort Lauderdale area, including service near the Northport section of Port Everglades. For schedules and route information, call 954-357-8400 or visit the Broward County Transit website.
Rental cars are available at the Rental Car Center at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport. Some rental companies licensed to operate near the port provide shuttles from their locations to cruise terminals. Ask the rental company about its return location and shuttle schedule before booking.
Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL)
FLL is only a short distance from Port Everglades and is served by many major airlines. This proximity is one of Port Everglades' biggest advantages for travelers who are flying to their cruise.
After landing, you still need to collect checked luggage, travel to the port, find the correct terminal, drop bags, pass security, and complete check-in. For that reason, do not plan a tight same-day connection between a flight and your cruise. If you must fly in on embarkation day, leave a generous buffer and follow the cruise line's final check-in rules. Flying in the day before is the safer strategy.
Miami International Airport (MIA) is another option. It is generally 30–45 minutes south of Port Everglades by car, depending on traffic, and may offer different flight schedules or prices.
Hotels Near Port Everglades
Fort Lauderdale, Dania Beach, Hollywood, and the airport area all offer pre-cruise accommodation. Many hotels provide airport transfers, cruise-port shuttles, or stay-and-park packages, but these services vary by property.
- Airport area: Convenient for an early arrival or a late flight, with many hotels close to FLL.
- 17th Street and the convention center: Close to the port, restaurants, stores, and several cruise transportation options.
- Downtown Fort Lauderdale: A good choice for dining, museums, and a walk along the Riverwalk.
- Beach area: Best for travelers who want time on Fort Lauderdale Beach before sailing, although the ride to the port may be longer.
Ask the hotel whether a shuttle goes to your specific terminal, how much it costs, what time it operates, and whether luggage assistance is included. A rideshare or taxi may be more flexible when several ships are boarding.
Parking at Port Everglades
Port Everglades offers on-site parking in two garages and several lots, with more than 5,500 spaces in total. Parking is secure and convenient, but the port does not accept reservations or pre-payment. Rates and operating details can change, so confirm them before your trip.
- Heron Parking Garage: Seven-foot clearance, 1,818 spaces, and service for Terminals 2 and 4. Terminal 2 connects by an elevated passenger bridge from the fifth floor.
- Palm Parking Garage: Seven-foot clearance, 1,966 spaces, and service for Terminals 19, 21, 25, 26, and 29. A shuttle serves Terminal 29.
- Parking Lot A: About 770 spaces near Terminals 19 and 26; entrance at 2000 Eller Drive.
- Parking Lot B: About 404 spaces between Terminals 18 and 19; entrance off SE 19th Avenue.
- Parking Lot C: About 600 spaces adjacent to Terminal 18.
Short-term rates may apply for stays of one to five hours, and the daily rate begins when you take a ticket at the garage or lot. Oversized vehicle parking is limited and is intended for vehicles such as RVs, trailers, or vehicles too tall for the upper garage levels. The maximum oversized-vehicle length is approximately 24 feet; call ahead for details.
Accessible parking is available near crosswalks and elevators. Display the required permit and contact your cruise line in advance if you need help moving from the parking area to the terminal.
Accessibility
Port Everglades' air-conditioned cruise terminals are designed to be accessible, with accessible parking, elevators, crosswalk access, and facilities for travelers with mobility needs. Cruise lines provide the shipboard assistance, wheelchair arrangements, and embarkation guidance, so request accommodations when you book or complete online check-in.
Tell the port or your cruise line if you need wheelchair assistance from curbside, help with luggage, an accessible drop-off point, or extra time during boarding. Keep medications and essential mobility equipment with you rather than packing them in checked luggage.
Terminal Facilities and Port Procedures
Port Everglades terminals are air-conditioned and generally include:
- Free Wi-Fi
- Restrooms and accessible facilities
- Comfortable seating
- Snack and beverage vending machines
- Security screening and cruise-line check-in areas
- Porters and curbside luggage drop-off areas
- Public artwork and local cultural displays
At the port entrance, be prepared to show a government-issued photo ID, such as a driver's license or passport, along with your cruise documents. Follow the signs to luggage drop-off first, keep valuables and medications in your carry-on, and then proceed through security and cruise-line check-in. Your cruise card or app will be used for identification, onboard purchases, and getting on or off the ship.
Port property is subject to security rules and vehicle searches. Do not bring weapons or prohibited items. Your cruise line's prohibited-items list is more specific than a general airport packing list, so review it before packing.
Arrival Guidance for Embarkation Day
Follow your cruise line's selected arrival time and final check-in instructions. An assigned arrival window helps the terminal manage traffic and passenger flow. Arriving extremely early may not allow you to enter before your window, while arriving late can create unnecessary stress or risk missing the final check-in deadline.
- Complete online check-in and have your boarding documents ready.
- Confirm the terminal and save the address or directions on your phone.
- Drop large bags with the porters, keeping a small carry-on with documents, medication, valuables, a swimsuit, and anything needed before your luggage arrives.
- Allow time for security, check-in, and boarding. Multiple ships can make the roads and terminals busy.
- Keep your travel documents accessible until you are on board.
If you are flying to South Florida, arriving the day before your cruise protects you from flight delays, weather, and traffic. The short distance from FLL is helpful, but it does not eliminate the risk of a delayed flight or a missed check-in deadline.
Things to Do Near Port Everglades
If your schedule allows, Fort Lauderdale makes an easy pre- or post-cruise stop. Nearby options include:
- Fort Lauderdale Beach and the beachfront promenade
- The Riverwalk and downtown waterfront
- Las Olas Boulevard for restaurants, galleries, and shopping
- The Greater Fort Lauderdale/Broward County Convention Center area
- Water taxi sightseeing along the Intracoastal Waterway
- Bonnet House Museum & Gardens and other local attractions
Plan activities around your luggage, transportation, and cruise check-in window. On embarkation day, a relaxed hotel morning and an early trip to the terminal are usually better than scheduling a distant excursion.
Important Phone Numbers and Contacts
- Port Everglades cruise terminal information: 954-468-3720
- Port Everglades general contact: 954-523-3404
- Parking questions or emergencies: 954-468-3680
- Broward County Transit: 954-357-8400
For ship-specific questions, accessibility arrangements, arrival windows, luggage tags, and final check-in deadlines, contact your cruise line directly. Port staff can help with the terminal and port facilities, but they cannot change a cruise-line boarding appointment.
Recommended Strategy for First-Time Cruisers
The simplest plan for a first cruise from Port Everglades is to fly into FLL the day before, stay at a nearby hotel, and arrange a morning rideshare, taxi, hotel shuttle, or rental-car drop-off after confirming the terminal. Complete online check-in before traveling, keep all essential items in your carry-on, and follow the arrival window printed in your cruise documents.
If you are driving, decide whether on-site parking or a hotel-and-parking package is best for the length of your cruise. Check garage clearance for tall vehicles, photograph your parking location, and keep your parking ticket safe. Before you leave for the terminal, recheck the cruise line app for terminal changes, boarding times, luggage instructions, and weather-related updates.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Port Everglades from Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport?
Port Everglades is only a short drive from FLL. Travel time varies with traffic, luggage claim, security, and your terminal, so allow a generous buffer and follow your cruise line's final check-in rules.
What time should I arrive at Port Everglades?
Follow your cruise line instructions and assigned arrival window. Complete online check-in and arrive with enough time for luggage drop-off, security, check-in, and boarding.
Does Port Everglades accept parking reservations?
Port Everglades does not accept reservations or pre-payment for its on-site parking. Confirm current rates and oversized-vehicle details with the parking team at 954-468-3680.
Which terminal will my ship use?
Terminal assignments depend on the ship and sailing date. Check your cruise documents or cruise-line app shortly before departure rather than assuming a terminal based on the cruise line.
Should I stay in Fort Lauderdale before my cruise?
For most travelers, arriving the day before is the safer choice. Hotels near FLL, 17th Street, the convention center, downtown, and the beach can make the morning transfer easier.
Keep Planning Your First Cruise
New to cruising? Start with our Beginner's Guide to Cruising, browse more USA cruise ports, compare cruise lines, or read our Pro Tips for First Time Cruisers.