Looking for cruises from Fort Lauderdale? While there are numerous cruise lines leaving from a Fort Lauderdale cruise port, such as the Princess Cruise and the Royal Caribbean, a few really stand out. Major differences between each recommended cruise line center around who is traveling with you. Are you going alone, as a couple, or with your family? We have provided you with a range of cruise line options, each geared toward different passengers because they all offer vastly different experiences.
Best Cruises from Fort Lauderdale
In selecting these options, we took a sampling from each age category. What cruise appeals the most to you will depend on who you are traveling with. Although these cruises all depart from South Florida, we chose a selection offering different activities that will appeal to various demographics.
Best Overall: Odyssey of the Seas (Royal Caribbean Cruises)
Odyssey of the Seas was launched in July 2021 and holds 5,398 passengers. This cruise line offers exceptional activities like RipCord, the world’s first at-sea skydiving simulator, and FlowRider, a surf simulator.
The North Star Observation cruise ship lifts guests 300 feet above sea level and over the ship to enjoy the spectacular view below. There are also standard activities like arcades, pools, spas, kids’ clubs, shopping, and a fitness center.
For entertainment, Odyssey of the Seas offers live music, a casino, theatrical performances, and outdoor movie nights. Passengers can also select from 15 different dining venues, from Japanese to all-you-can-eat buffets. There are nine lounges and bars as well.
Read Also: Royal Caribbean’s Odyssey of the Seas – Overview and Things to Do
The Odyssey of the Seas is a bit more unique when it comes to cabins. Passengers can select from Oceanview, Interior, Suites, and Balcony staterooms. They also offer Virtual Balcony rooms, which provide floor-to-ceiling displays projecting a real-time view of sounds and sights from outside your ship. Destinations for the Odyssey of the Seas include Europe and various Caribbean ports.
Best For Adults: Silver Moon (Silversea)
If you want a more intimate experience, travel aboard the Silver Moon. One of Silversea’s newest ships, it launched in June 2021 and only accommodates 596 passengers.
The most unique feature of this cruise ship is the Sea and Land Taste (S.A.L.T.) program. The S.A.L.T. program is a culinary experience that introduces guests to their destinations through the food they serve. It gives them an opportunity to participate in workshops and tastings.
If you are a foodie, food-based excursions can be booked through this program. Silver Moon also contains seven eateries with a variety of foods as well if you are not on the adventurous side.
Amenities include pools, whirlpools, Zagara Beauty Spa, a fitness center, and lounges throughout the ship. Guests can try their luck at the casino or be entertained in the Venetian Lounge.
Silver Moon has all-suite accommodations that range in size. They come equipped with marble bathrooms, butler service, free Wi-Fi, large windows, and flat-screen televisions. Passengers receive a bottle of champagne as a welcome gift.
For added luxury, upgraded staterooms contain several bedrooms, bathrooms, sitting areas, espresso machines, private balconies, and daily canapes. Silver Moon travels to Africa, Europe, South America, and Asia.
Best for Families With Older Kids: Celebrity Apex (Celebrity Cruises)
Celebrity Apex is another new ship that launched in June 2021. It contains 29 different bars, restaurants, and lounges. Specialty restaurants include a raw bar and a steakhouse. Dining options offer French, Italian, and Mediterranean cuisine.
Worth Reading: Must-Know Things About the Celebrity Apex Cruise Ship
For activities, you have the Celebrity Apex casino, live music at the Magic Carpet, and an adults-only Solarium pool for ultimate relaxation. If you are traveling with your family, check out the Toddler Time area, Teen Club, and the wide range of educational classes offered. However, the ship does cater to adult passengers or families with older children.
Staterooms contain smart TVs, ample storage space, and customized air conditioning. Some rooms have private verandas, or you can upgrade to The Retreat.
The Retreat is an exclusive area in the ship featuring luxury accommodations, including access to a private sun deck, lounge, and restaurant. The rooms are more spacious as well.
Celebrity Apex travels to European destinations like Italy, Croatia, Greece, and Portugal. It also sails to the Caribbean (St. Thomas, Belize, Puerto Rico, and Grand Cayman).
Best for Singles: Nieuw Statendam (Holland America Line)
A modern beauty, the Nieuw Statendam contains dramatic spaces and fluid lines. This ship places a special emphasis on eye-catching, elegant design.
It offers engaging activities both day and night. Guests can relax at pools or spas, work out at the sports court/fitness center, or attend wine-blending classes and cooking demonstrations.
In the evening, you can be entertained at B.B. King’s Blues Club, party at the Rolling Stone Rock Room, or attend the dual-level World Stage. You can also try your luck at the casino.
Enjoy culinary delights at traditional dining rooms and specialty restaurants. Food ranges from cuisines from Holland, Asia, and France.
Staterooms include Oceanview, Inside, Verandah, and suites containing living areas/balconies. This vessel sails to the Caribbean, Canada, and Europe.
As you can see, there are a variety of cruises ranging from family-friendly fun to more adult types of entertainment. Families want a ship that has activities that all age groups can enjoy and participate in. They want a cruise that will entertain their kids while they explore their own interests. Plus, they want activities the whole family can enjoy together.
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Singles or families with older children desire a more private experience. Adults will not necessarily appreciate an intimate dining experience with their spouse that is interrupted by an overtired toddler. Additionally, families with teens will not be interested in kiddie entertainment. These cruises cater to this type of demographic.
Cruises from Fort Lauderdale are vast, and they travel to a variety of global destinations. Options are not limited, and guests are guaranteed to find the perfect cruise for them.
