PortMiami, the “Cruise Capital of the World,” handles over 7.2 million passengers annually. With investments of over $1.5 billion in its terminals and facilities, it’s not surprising that it regularly holds the title of busiest cruise port in the world. Learn everything about the port and its surroundings with this guide.
In This Article:
- Miami Cruise Port Location and Overview
- Which Cruise Lines Use the Terminals?
- Terminal Amenities, Berths and Breakdown
- Parking at Miami Cruise Port
- Other Parking Options
- Traveling from Nearby Airports to PortMiami
- Traveling from South Beach to Miami Cruise Port
- How to Get to Miami Cruise Port
- Dining Near PortMiami
- Shopping Near PortMiami
- Best Time to Visit Miami for a Cruise Departure
Miami Cruise Port Location and Overview
PortMiami is conveniently located on Dodge Island in Biscayne Bay, just east of downtown Miami, Florida, and just a bit south of the iconic coastal resort city of Miami Beach.
Not only does this strategic location enable cruise ships to easily set off on voyages to the Eastern and Western Caribbean, Mexico, Key West, South American coastline, and beyond, but it provides visiting cruise passengers with easy access to Miami’s world-renowned beaches, shopping districts, and other attractions.
PortMiami holds the title of the largest passenger port in the world. It also happens to be one of the busiest, regularly serving over 7.2 million cruise passengers every year.
As mentioned, the port is located on Dodge, which was once one of three islands immediately off the coast of Miami but has since been combined into a single island to turn it into a major passenger and cargo port. The island is connected to downtown Miami via a causeway over the waterway and to nearby Watson Island via the PortMiami Tunnel.
Currently, nine passenger terminals make up PortMiami’s cruise facilities: Terminals A, B, C, D, E, F, G, J, and V. Three of these were built for specific cruise lines; the others are shared terminals that can be used by various cruise lines.
Miami Cruise Port Address:
PortMiami, 1015 North America Way, Miami, Florida 33132
Which Cruise Lines Use the Terminals?
As the world’s busiest cruise port, it’s not surprising that PortMiami is a destination for many of the world’s top cruise lines. The following cruise lines regularly use the port’s terminals:
- Terminal A: Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, Silversea Cruises
- Terminal B: Norwegian Cruise Line
- Terminal C: MSC Cruises, Disney Cruise Line
- Terminal D: Carnival Cruise Line, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Costa Cruises, Cunard Line
- Terminal E: Carnival Cruise Line, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises
- Terminal F: Carnival Cruise Line
- Terminal G: Royal Caribbean Cruise Line
- Terminal J: Oceania Cruises, Crystal Cruises, Azamara, Regent Seven Seas Cruises
- Terminal V: Virgin Voyages
Terminal Amenities, Berths and Breakdown
The fact that PortMiami operates nine distinct cruise terminals may sound a bit confusing to cruise passengers who are used to the smaller ports found elsewhere.
The port is fairly easy to navigate, given the simple letter-based naming system and the fact that certain cruise lines have dedicated terminal facilities. Here is a basic breakdown of the terminals and which cruise lines operate out of them:
Terminal A
- Cruise Lines: Royal Caribbean International
- Address: 1015 North Cruise Blvd
Nicknamed “The Crown of Miami,” Terminal A is one of the newer and more advanced terminals at Miami Cruise Port. It is built around a modern terminal building that handles roughly 2 million cruise passengers per year.
The entire facility is fully accessible, with ramps, elevators, and escalators, making it easy for all passengers to navigate. It also features an expedited security check-in area for international guests, as well as spacious waiting areas and a luggage drop-off area.
Like all of the terminals at PortMiami, Wi-Fi is fast and completely complimentary. The MIA-WiFi Network provides free coverage to all indoor areas throughout the port, with the signal even being strong enough to cover some of the parking lots. Another feature that applies to each terminal building is the fact that it is fully air-conditioned.
Exclusively serves cruise lines under the Royal Caribbean Group, including Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, and Silversea Cruises. Royal Caribbean Group funded the redevelopment of the terminal in June of 2016, which is why it exclusively serves their ships.
As the port’s largest terminal, the 200,000-square-foot facility can serve some of the largest vessels in the Royal Caribbean fleet, including its Oasis-class cruise ships.
Terminal B
- Cruise Lines: Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL)
- Address: 1751 North Cruise Blvd
Reopened in 2020, Terminal B has modern waiting areas and food and beverage options, including a large waiting lounge with full bar service.
Efficient check-in and information desks are also found near the boarding areas. As part of the renovation process, new restrooms and elevators were added to the futuristic-looking terminal building.
The terminal exclusively serves cruise ships operated by Norwegian Cruise Line. The redevelopment of the terminal began in March of 2018 and was completed in August 2021 as a result of COVID-19-related construction delays.
Informally dubbed “Pearl of Miami,” this 166,000 square-foot terminal facility can handle the largest ships in the Norwegian Cruise Line fleet, like its Breakaway Plus-Class vessels.
Terminal C
- Cruise Lines: MSC Cruises and occasionally Carnival Cruise Line
- Address: 1741 North Cruise Blvd
Terminal C features one of the more modest terminal buildings, but it still has the same air-conditioning and free Wi-Fi coverage as the other buildings. It also has ample seating and accessibility features, as well as efficient check-in and information counters.
Like the other terminals, there is also an airport-style drop-off and pick up zone for taxis and other vehicles directly in front of the building.
The terminal primarily, but not exclusively, serves cruise ships belonging to MSC Cruises. MSC Cruises has plans to fund the construction of a new $300 million cruise terminal and facility in the future, which will replace the existing Terminal C facilities.
Terminal D
- Cruise Lines: Carnival Cruise Line
- Address: 1435 North Cruise Blvd
One of the largest terminals, the newly renovated Terminal D building features a comfortable seating area, several eateries, a lounge bar, and a large check-in area.
The building is really impressive and the outdoor space is lined with palm trees and benches. The terminal also features brand-new passenger boarding bridges, making the boarding process even more pleasant for those embarking or disembarking at Terminal D.
The terminal primarily serves cruise lines that belong to Carnival Corporation, including Carnival Cruise Line, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Costa Cruises, and Cunard Line. Carnival Corporation does not have exclusive rights to Terminal D, so other cruise lines do occasionally operate out of it when necessary.
Terminal E
- Cruise Lines: Carnival Cruise Line, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Costa Cruises, and Cunard Line
- Address: 1265 West Cruise Blvd
While the areas are somewhat divided, Terminal E shares the same building as Terminal D. It also has all the same facilities, making the experience similar no matter which of the two Carnival terminals your cruise ship is using.
With that said, Terminal E has a unique VIP lounge, which is available for certain visiting passengers, like those who have booked a suite.
Located directly beside Terminal D, Terminal E is another that primarily serves cruise lines sailing under the Carnival Corporation’s banner. An $8 million renovation project is scheduled for Terminal E that should help modernize the passenger processing facilities.
Terminal F
- Cruise Lines: Carnival Cruise Line
- Address: 1103 North Cruise Blvd
After a multi-million-dollar renovation by Lemartec, Terminal F and its passenger processing building are designed to ensure passengers enjoy a seamless experience.
Terminal F almost exclusively serves Carnival Cruise Line and became the third terminal for Carnival operations when it was completed in 2022. However, MSC Cruises has used the terminal at times, too.
The 471,000-square-foot facility offers a modern check-in experience for passengers, with photo booth opportunities and the capacity to cater to the cruise line’s large Excel-class ships.
Terminal G
- Cruise Lines: Royal Caribbean Cruise Line and occasionally Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL)
- Address: 1055 North Cruise Blvd
The rooftop of the Terminal G building features tent-like sails, which give the building an iconic look that can be seen from afar. The interior has all of the basic passenger amenities as the other cruise terminals, but it is expected to become one of the most impressive once the renovation and redevelopment project has been completed.
Like Terminal A, Terminal G primarily serves cruise lines that are part of Royal Caribbean Group. Royal Caribbean Group has actually announced plans to redevelop and increase the size of Terminal G, with the project scheduled for completion in early 2027.
Terminal J
- Cruise Lines: Azamara, Crystal Cruises, Seabourn, Oceania Cruises, and other smaller cruise lines
- Address: 1120 Caribbean Way
As a terminal designed specifically for smaller vessels, the interior of the building has a more luxury-themed appearance, including two VIP areas, high-end restroom facilities, and several check-in booths.
Terminal J is the smallest of the nine terminals, and it serves smaller vessels from more boutique cruise lines, like Oceania Cruises, Crystal Cruises, Azamara, and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.
It is currently undergoing a $3 million refurbishment project to improve the restroom facilities and provide additional escalators and elevators for better accessibility.
Terminal V
- Cruise Lines: Virgin Voyages
- Address: 897 South Cruise Blvd
The newest of the nine terminals, Terminal V, now exclusively serves ships that belong to Virgin Voyages. When it was first added in November of 2018, it was named Terminal H.
However, a $150 million contract with Virgin Voyages meant the terminal would be redeveloped and renamed to function as a designated home port for their vessels. The project was completed in February of 2022.
Nicknamed “Virgin Voyages Palm Grove,” this tropical-themed cruise port is surrounded by palm trees and features lush indoor gardens. The impressive interior features several restaurants and bars, comfortable waiting areas, and all of the other amenities you would expect from a brand-new, state-of-the-art terminal.
Plans for Future Cruise Terminals
There are plans for Terminals AA/AAA and Terminal K to be added to PortMiami, with Terminal AA/AAA being a double-berth terminal funded by MSC Cruises.
Disney Cruise Line is partnering with Miami-Dade County to add Terminal K on the southern side of PortMiami. The construction of both terminals was delayed due to COVID-19, but they are expected to be completed in the near future.
Parking at Miami Cruise Port
PortMiami has numerous parking options for those planning to drive. While each terminal has a drop-off and pick up zone directly outside its respective terminal building, many terminals also have overnight, multi-level parking garages and lots located within a short walking distance of the building. Here are the main parking options located within PortMiami itself:
Northside Parking
- Parking Garage A: Serves Terminal A
- Parking Garage B: Serves Terminal B
- Parking Garage C: Serves Terminal C
- Parking Garage D: Serves Terminals D and E
- Surface Parking Lot D: Serves Terminal D
- Surface Parking Lot E: Serves Terminal E
- Parking Garage G: Serves Terminals F, G, and V
Southside Parking
- Parking Garage J: Serves Terminal J
Parking Rates
Except for parking Garage J, all the parking garages outlined above charge a flat $22 per day rate for regular-sized vehicles. For short-term parking, guests can pay an $8 rate, which covers the first two hours.
Read Also: Miami Cruise Port Parking – Where to Park Guide
After the first two hours, you will need to pay the full $22 overnight rate. Oversized vehicles must park in Surface Lot E and pay an increased rate of $44 per day.
The lots are pay and display, with ticket machines accepting cash or credit cards. Miami’s SunPass Plus Parking transponder will even work in Parking Garages D and G. Parking Garage J requires pre-booking and payment online due to the size limitations of the garage.
Every parking garage and lot in the cruise port also offers disabled parking.
Other Parking Options
In addition to PortMiami’s official parking lots and garages, several off-site parking facilities offer competitive rates and offer complimentary shuttle services to the port’s various terminals. The following are just a few of the more popular options:
Premier Cruise Parking
Located 1.8 miles away, this public parking lot allows cruise passengers to pre-book a parking spot online. They also advertise themselves as being 50% cheaper than parking at PortMiami and include complimentary shuttles to each of the nine terminals.
Safe Cruise Parking
Just 1.5 miles away on 189 NE 2nd Street, this popular underground parking garage also charges half the price of PortMiami for overnight parking. They also allow visitors to book ahead, so you can guarantee your spot. Like the other parking lot, they offer a complimentary shuttle, which runs every 45 minutes.
Traveling from Nearby Airports to PortMiami
Part of the reason why PortMiami is such a popular cruise port is the simple fact that it is in such a convenient location for those traveling from outside of Florida.
This is because there are two international airports in close proximity to the cruise port. Here are basic directions and travel options if you are flying into Miami prior to boarding your cruise:
Miami International Airport (MIA)
Located roughly 8.7 miles from the cruise port, traveling from Miami International Airport is incredibly easy. With taxis taking roughly 20 minutes, depending on traffic, and rates between $27 and $33, depending on the terminal you are traveling to, travel is convenient and affordable.
Many cruise lines also offer complimentary shuttle services, but you will need to check with your cruise line ahead of time. If you want to save some money and travel via public transit, Miami-Dade Transit’s Metrorail Orange Line runs from the airport to Government Center Station, where you can transfer to the Metromover monorail system to the port.
Worth Reading: Miami Airport to Cruise Port – What You Need to Know
Here are the step-by-step driving directions from Miami International Airport to PortMiami:
- From the airport, get on FL-836
- After 2.5 miles use the right lane to take the State Route 836 ramp
- Merge onto NE 2nd Ave and follow for 4.8 miles
- Continue on NE 2nd Ave until you see signs for PortMiami
- Turn left onto Port Blvd, then follow signs for your terminal
Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL)
A bit further, FLL is located roughly 25.9 miles north of PortMiami. For those flying into Fort Lauderdale, taxis usually take between 45 minutes and a bit over an hour, with the duration depending on traffic at the time of arrival. Fortunately, most taxi companies offer flat rates between $50 and $60 to travel between the airport and cruise port.
You can also take the Tri-Rail service, which connects the airport to downtown Miami. From there, you can take the same Metromover to the cruise port. Unfortunately, few cruise lines offer complimentary shuttles from this airport.
Read Also: Fort Lauderdale Cruise Port – Terminals, Amenities and Overview
Here are the step-by-step driving directions from Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood Airport to PortMiami:
- Travel west on FL-818 for roughly 2 miles, then use the left two lanes to merge onto the I-95 South
- Drive on the I-95 South for 21 miles before taking Exit 2B to NE 2nd Ave
- Turn left onto Port Blvd and follow the signs for your terminal
Traveling from South Beach to Miami Cruise Port
South Beach is roughly 4 miles from PortMiami. Given that this iconic neighborhood is popular with tourists, many cruise passengers will spend time there before traveling to the cruise port.
If you plan on doing so, you can get there using the following transportation options:
By Taxi or Rideshare Vehicle
Taxis are the most convenient option, with travel time usually only running about 15 to 20 minutes via the MacArthur Causeway. Rates vary, but most people pay between $20 and $25.
Rideshare services, like Uber and Lyft, can be more affordable and offer the flexibility of being picked up exactly where you are; just be aware of surge rates if you are traveling in the afternoon.
By Public Transit
You can take the Miami Beach Airport Express Bus (Route 150), which connects South Beach to the downtown of Miami. From there, the Metromover offers rapid access to the cruise port.
How to Get to Miami Cruise Port
No matter where you are coming from in Miami, it is fairly simple to get to Miami cruise port. As one of the city’s main attractions, it is a regular destination for taxis, shuttles, and even Miami’s public transit system:
By Taxi
Taxis are everywhere in Miami, including at the airport, in front of hotels, and along all of the popular tourist streets. Almost any taxi will provide you with direct access to PortMiami.
Meter rates in Miami are $0.85 per ¼ mile, but we recommend enquiring about an upfront flat rate to the port. Most taxi drivers will offer one, as they can usually pick up a fare from PortMiami, so it makes it a worthwhile journey for them.
By Shuttle Service
While not as popular as taxis, plenty of independent shuttle services operate in Miami. Almost all of them will allow you to pre-book travel from a location of your choice to the cruise port. These are ideal for larger groups, or those traveling with a significant amount of luggage.
Express Shuttle of Miami is one of the more popular options, as they offer direct transit to and from the cruise port for reasonable rates.
By Public Transit
The Miami-Dade Public Transit System is really impressive, with several major routes providing connections to the port. While which route you take will depend on where you are coming from in the city, you will find that the Metrorail and Metromover systems are both really helpful when trying to get to PortMiami from different parts of the city.
By Driving
Whether you have rented a vehicle or are driving to the port from outside of the city, getting to PortMiami is straightforward. There are plenty of signs directing traffic to the cruise port and, as we discussed, the port has plenty of options for overnight parking.
Worth Reading: Miami Cruise Port Car Rental – What You Need to Know
Dining Near PortMiami
Miami is a foodie’s paradise, with a world-renowned culinary scene. Each terminal has its own lounge where you can purchase light snacks and drinks, but if you are looking for other options close to the port, we recommend the following:
Bayside Dining
If you follow Port Blvd west for almost exactly one mile, you can walk to Bayside Marketplace. This bustling market is packed with a wide variety of dining options, so even the pickiest eaters will find something that appeals to them. Ben’s Pizza, Bacon B*tch, LandShark Bar & Grill, and Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville are just some of the many highlights.
Toro Toro
If you’re looking for something a little bit more upscale, Toro Toro is just 1.8 miles from the port. Not only does this exciting Latin steakhouse and bar provide an enjoyable atmosphere, the food pays homage to Miami’s significant Latin American population, so you can enjoy some local flavors without having to go far.
Friend’s Market & Bistro
This simple bistro has a diverse menu that features Venezuelan foods, as well as American favorites, like house-made pizzas, burgers, and sandwiches. Friend’s Market & Bistro is also just 2.2 miles from port, making for a simple journey from your terminal.
Shopping Near PortMiami
While some terminals have small souvenir stores, most visitors prefer to head to Downtown Miami for their shopping needs. If you would like to pick up a few items during your visit, we recommend the following:
Bayside Marketplace
Not only does Bayside Marketplace offer a wide range of restaurants and bars, but you’ll find plenty of stores and boutiques carrying international brands, as well as some vendors carrying more unique local items. Since it’s only a mile from most of the terminals, it is a must-stop destination for shopping.
Brickell City Center
This luxury shopping mall can be found in downtown Miami, roughly 2.3 miles from the port. While exploring this enormous open-air shopping center, you’ll find four floors worth of luxury retailers and restaurants. It’s another must-stop for shopping enthusiasts.
Best Time to Visit Miami for a Cruise Departure
Miami has a tropical climate that makes it a year-round tourist destination, but the winter and spring months are by far the most popular for cruising.
Peak cruise season runs between late November and mid-April, where temperatures are pleasant and humidity levels are relatively low. Many of the cruise lines reroute their cruise ships from Europe to PortMiami during these months, so you will notice more cruise options available if you book during peak season.
Conversely, the crowds tend to die down during the summer and fall months due to less favorable weather. July and August can be particularly hot and humid, while September to early November mark the Hurricane season, where storms and rainfall increase dramatically.
Miami is also a lively city that hosts numerous festivals and events, so crowds can flare up during certain times of the year. Ultra Music Festival runs in late March, and it is one of the city’s busiest, while the Miami Open tennis tournament also draws major crowds between March 16th to the 30th. For this reason, some people hoping to avoid crowds before their cruise will avoid the month of March.
