The Port of Galveston is slowly getting back to normal and has resumed some services, including cruise operations, following the destructive arrival of Hurricane Beryl on July 8, 2024.
The storm, which made landfall as a Category 1 hurricane in Matagorda, Texas, less than 100 miles south of the busy port, caused major damage to the state’s Gulf Coast, including massive power outages.
The hurricane cut a devastating path across the Caribbean before slamming into Texas, leaving behind damaged destinations in Jamaica, the Cayman Islands, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
Carnival Cruise Ship in Galveston, Texas (Photo Credit: BUI LE MANH HUNG)
On the Texas Gulf Coast, the administrative offices at the Port of Galveston, which is the fourth-busiest cruise port in the US behind Port Canaveral, Miami, and Fort Lauderdale, were closed through at least July 9, 2024, due to a lack of power.
However, cruise operations were up and running as of that date, with the cruise terminals relying on back-up generator power, port officials confirmed in a social media post. Power remains unavailable in other areas of the port.
The port, known as Galveston Wharves, has three cruise terminals and currently is the homeport for several cruise ships, including Carnival Cruise Line’s Carnival Jubilee, Carnival Breeze, and Carnival Dream; and Royal Caribbean’s Mariner of the Seas and Harmony of the Seas.
Commercial vessels, including cruise and cargo, are accessing Galveston Harbor on a case-by-case basis during daylight hours, provided their drafts are not greater than 30 feet.
“Port vessel operations remain suspended with case-by-case considerations based on hydrographic surveys of Galveston Harbor and port berths to assure navigable depths,” Rodger Rees, port director of Galveston Wharves, said in a statement.
As the storm pulled away from the region on July 9, 2024, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and local officials began surveying Galveston Harbor, including conducting hydrographic surveys will for port berths, Rees explained. Port staff and engineers already have completed infrastructure inspections.
Carnival Cruise Line Brand Ambassador John Heald posted a hurricane update notice on July 10, 2024, indicating that operations were proceeding normally.
“Our partners at the Port of Galveston continue their post-storm assessment, including an inspection of the cruise terminal. At this time there is no indication that your cruise will be impacted, but if anything changes, we will advise our guests and travel advisor partners about our operations,” the post stated.
Hurricane Impacted Cruises as It Barreled Across Caribbean
Some ships homeporting at Galveston were safely at sea when the hurricane hit the Galveston area, having departed on July 6 and 7, 2024, and were able to avoid the storm altogether, however, Mariner of the Seas was impacted by the bad weather.
The Voyager-class ship was due to disembark guests at Galveston following a 4-night Western Caribbean cruise on July 8, 2024, but the cruise line postponed her arrival in port to July 9, 2024.
Carnival Cruise Ship in Port (Photo Credit: Darryl Brooks)
As a result, the 4,000-guest ship departed on her next cruise, a 5-night Western Caribbean itinerary, a day late and cancelled a scheduled port call at Costa Maya, Mexico.
“The Royal Caribbean Mariner of the Seas was cleared to dock at 1 p.m. today to debark passengers. Embarking passengers are asked to arrive after 4 p.m. at their scheduled window to board for an 8 p.m. sailing. Future RCCL sailings will return to the regular schedule,” Rees said in the July 9, 2024 statement.
Carnival Cruise Line altered the embarkation time for guests booked on Carnival Dream’s July 7, 2024 departure from Galveston. Guests were told to be at the port by 2 p.m. that day, since the line had moved up the ship’s departure of her 6-night Western Caribbean cruise to 3 p.m.
Several other Carnival Cruise Line ships sailing in other areas of the Caribbean also were impacted as the hurricane made its way across the region. This included ships operated by Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Princess Cruises, MSC Cruises and Norwegian Cruise Line.
MSC Cruises has expanded the benefits that come with booking accommodations in the line’s exclusive luxury enclave, MSC Yacht Club, by adding specially curated shore excursions to the list of perks.
The line on July 10, 2024 revealed nearly 100 shore tours at destinations in the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, and the Caribbean reserved for guests staying in its private ship-within-a-ship area. The excursions are now available for booking, and more destinations will be added in the coming months.
Beach Club in Turkey
Shore excursions are not included in the yacht club cruise fare, but many other amenities are covered, such as 24/7 butler and concierge services, private dining and pool areas, beverage and WiFi packages, priority boarding and disembarking, and more.
Yacht club guests can continue to book any of the line’s shore tours, however, the new small-group shore excursions all include private transportation, meaning the luxury guests will not be transported in the large motorcoaches typically used to move large numbers of guests at port calls.
The new tours are focused on local culture, cuisine, and architecture, and are limited in size to allow for a more private experience.
During port calls to Genoa, Italy, for example, yacht club guests can learn the secrets of making pesto during a cooking class in Santa Margherita Ligure, a historic village on the Italian Riviera.
Following the cooking lesson, cruisers will be treated to an upscale luncheon and can then explore Portofino, known for the pretty, pastel-colored buildings that hug its scenic waterfront. Strolling along the town’s quaint streets, shopping in upscale stores, and visiting the Church of St. George are among activities guests can enjoy.
“The new offering has come following customer feedback and a desire for a more exclusive experience for MSC Yacht Club guests,” said Marialuisa Iaccarino, head of shore excursions for MSC Cruises.
“Guests will benefit from a seamless experience between the butlers’ service onboard and the excursion experts ashore as well as having the opportunity to relax and fully immerse themselves into each destination’s culture, cuisine and traditions,” Iaccarino added.
MSC Yacht Club guests can book the exclusive tours in advance, either online or via the line’s contact center, as well as onboard their ship, either through the MSC For Me app, the MSC Yacht Club concierge service, or at the Shore Excursions desk.
Other excursions offered exclusively to yacht club guests include a perfume-making workshop in Grasse, France, about an hour’s drive from the port of Cannes. Guests can create their own fragrance and then tour a perfume factory.
At a port call in Akureyri, Iceland, cruisers can relax in the geothermal, mineral waters of the Fontana baths, while enjoying a view of nearby Lake Laugarvatn. The tour includes a visit to the scenic Þingvellir National Park.
In the Caribbean, yacht club guests can book a luxury catamaran and snorkeling tour in Cozumel, Mexico. With a personal guide, cruisers will sail to the region’s famous Colombia Reef, considered the top snorkeling locale off the Cozumel coast.
At Falmouth, Jamaica, guests can enjoy a true luxe experience in a private cabana at the Martha Brae River, where a personal butler will serve drinks and food.
Largest Yacht Club to Debut Aboard MSC World America
MSC Cruises introduced its MSC Yacht Club in 2008, and the private oasis is currently available on more than half of the line’s 22 ships. The largest yacht club space in the fleet will debut aboard MSC World America, a 6,700-guest ship set to launch in 2025.
The club space on the vessel will feature 152 suites, two Owner’s Suites, a private bi-level sundeck, and a dedicated restaurant and bar, all with ocean views.
MSC World America is set to debut in Miami on April 12, 2025, sailing a roundtrip Caribbean voyage to Puerto Plata/Amber Cove, Dominican Republic; San Juan, Puerto Rico; and MSC Cruise’s private Ocean Cay Marine Reserve in the Bahamas.
When most cruise ships arrive in port, they are usually met with a warm welcome from the locals who are eager to share their culture and reap the economic benefits. But this clearly isn’t always the case in France.
As the latest in a series of recent protests, around 20 activists from the Stop Cruises BZH Collective and Extinction Rebellion groups banded together to block Seven Seas Voyager—a cruise ship operated by Regent Seven Seas Cruises—from entering the port of Concarneau, which is located in the Finistère department of Brittany in Northwestern France.
The demonstration, which was held on Saturday, July 6, 2024, prevented the luxury vessel from entering the port – meaning the up to 706 passengers onboard and approximately 447 crew members were not allowed to disembark and explore the French commune as planned.
While the ship did try, they likely could not safely navigate past the protestors, who were holding up banners from their own small boats that read “We’re the Iceberg,” in reference to the ill-fated Titanic.
The climate change activists, who see the cruise industry as an environmental threat, celebrated their victory.
One member of the Stop Cruises BZH Collective, who was only identified by Sophie, said it was the first time the group had successfully cancelled a ship call in its entirety and not just caused delays or discomfort.
“No cruise liners called at Concarneau today. For us, that’s a success because we’re fighting against luxury cruise ships,”said one unidentified protestor to regional newspaper Ouest France.“We think they’re an ecological absurdity and a symbol of social inequality.”
But for the passengers onboard the 138,194-gross-ton ship, the last-minute cancellation was likely disappointing.
As one of the top luxury cruise lines, Regent Seven Seas sailings cost quite a pretty penny, with the cruise line actually offering the most expensive cruise in the world embarking in 2027, which could cost up to $839,999 per guest.
While Regent’s typical cruises aren’t quite that expensive, it would still be frustrating to miss out on an experience for something that didn’t have to happen, such as inclement weather that makes docking unsafe.
The small cruise ship is currently operating a 14-night sailing throughout Spain, France, and Belgium, and a 79-night Grand Voyage simultaneously, which both began on June 28, 2024, in Lisbon, Portugal.
Cruises Cause Controversy In France
The July 6th protest in Brittany is only the latest in a recent string of demonstrations by environmental activists in France.
Earlier this year, on May 6, 2024, a similar demonstration was held in Brittany at the port in Douarnenez (Finistère) – this time to rally against the arrival of Silversea Cruises’ Silver Wind.
While the 294-passenger vessel was able to dock this time, authorities on board were forced to limit the number of guests who could go ashore for safety reasons.
Near the end of last year, on October 8, 2023, passengers aboard Atlas Ocean Voyages’ World Traveller were met with around 80 activists dressed as polar bears and other animals to make their point.
The protestors held signs that read messages like “Bear your polar shame” that were meant to shame guests for contributing to the negative environmental impact of cruising.
In 2022, Benoît Payan, the mayor of Marseille, France, rallied his supporters to call for an end to pollution from ships – and cruise ships in particular – in the port. His petition garnered almost 50,000 signatures – which equates to about 6% of the local population.
“We are suffocating, and in the Mediterranean Sea and in our ports, huge ships are polluting our air with complete impunity! Do you want this to stop? Me too. People of Marseille, let’s mobilize! Sign the petition,”Payan wrote on X at the time.
🔴 On suffoque, et en mer Méditerranée et dans nos ports, d'énormes bateaux polluent notre air en toute impunité ! Vous voulez que ça s'arrête ? Moi aussi.
Indeed, the negative environmental impact caused by cruises has been particularly controversial in Europe. Recent studies, such as a report released by NGO Transport and Entertainment in 2023 titled “The Return Of The Cruise: How Luxury Cruises Are Polluting European Cities” have helped to fuel the fire among activists.
According to the authors, cruise ships released more than eight million tons of carbon dioxide – a greenhouse gas – while sailing in European waters in 2022.
These emissions would be equivalent to what would come from approximately 50,000 airplane flights from Paris to New York – a distance of 3,626.98 miles.
That said, the cruise industry as a whole has become more conscious of its environmental impact – and cruise lines across the board have been working to implement more sustainable practices.
The Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) has set a goal for the industry to become completely carbon neutral by 2050 – a goal that cruising is on track to meet.
Sustainable changes are already in the works, such as switching to LNG engines, which use liquefied natural gas to power ships and can reduce the emissions of sulfur by 99-100%, carbon dioxide by 25%, and nitrogen oxide by 90%.
There has also been a call to add shore power capabilities to both new and existing vessels. Shore power allows vessels to turn off their engines while in port and connect to the local power grid instead, which is a greener alternative to running the onboard engine.
As of the time of publication, around 30% of today’s ships have shore power capabilities, per findings from CLIA – but that number is likely to grow. All CLIA-member ships that are constructed through 2028 are already being fitted with shore power capabilities.
If you have booked a cruise that departs from Florida, there is a good chance you will arrive at the Fort Lauderdale Cruise Port, also known as Port Everglades. As one of the busiest cruise ports in the world, Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, is a convenient departure point for some of the world’s most well-known cruise lines.
With millions of cruise passengers passing through this busy port every year, it can seem a little overwhelming for first-time visitors, so we have provided this comprehensive guide to Port Everglades and its facilities. We will also give you an overview of the surrounding area so you can make the most of your time in Fort Lauderdale.
From arrival to departure, this guide will prepare you for a seamless and enjoyable experience, so dive right in!
Like the city of Fort Lauderdale itself, Port Everglades is located on the coast of southeast Florida. This strategic location and the proximity to major international airports means it is one of the most popular cruise ports in the United States. It also means the port is one of the main cruise gateways to the Caribbean, Bahamas, Atlantic, and beyond.
Since it sits directly on the edge of Fort Lauderdale and is within driving distance of Miami, it is incredibly accessible. If you are driving from elsewhere, you can find the port at the following address:
1850 Eller Drive, Fort Lauderdale, Florida, USA, 33316
Terminals and Piers
As one of the busiest cruise ports in the world, it isn’t surprising that Port Everglades needs numerous terminals, but the sheer number of them is really impressive. It is an enormous port complex with eight full-size modern cruise terminals, each with its own cruise ship berth. To get a feel for the layout, look at this overhead port map.
This enormous cruise port is constructed along the western side of Lake Mabel and down the upper portion of the Stranahan River. The river also acts as a single entrance and exit point, allowing cruise ships to come and go from the eight sheltered cruise berths when they need to.
Cruise Ships Docked in Fort Lauderdale (Photo Credit: Darryl Brooks)
Dr. Von D. Mizell-Eula Johnson State Park also acts as a natural land barrier, protecting docked cruise ships from violent ocean waters while in port.
There are two man-made piers (Pier 1 and Pier 2), but these cater to the shipping yard. On the other hand, the eight cruise terminals line the banks of the channel and Lake Mabel.
To improve efficiency, cruise lines are assigned a specific terminal. While multiple cruise lines share some terminals, others act as home ports for a particular cruise line. Here is a basic breakdown of the eight terminals that make up Port Everglades:
The North-Port Terminals:
Terminal 1: This terminal is one of the smallest in the port and is dedicated to cruise ships and ferry services that travel directly to the Bahamas.
Terminal 2: Terminal 2 recently underwent a significant redevelopment, a joint operation between the port and Carnival Corporation. The terminal is now operated by Carnival Corporation and acts as a home port for several Princess Cruises vessels. Aside from expanding the terminal to accommodate larger ships, the project included renovating the onboarding services available at the terminal, enabling a more streamlined embarkation process for Princess Cruises passengers.
Terminal 4: Like Terminal 2, Terminal 4 was fully renovated in 2015. It now exclusively serves Carnival Cruise Line vessels and is outfitted with modern facilities. It is also the closest terminal to the port’s Broward County Convention Center, making it easy for passengers to kill time before boarding.
Map of Port Everglades
Mid-Port Terminals:
Terminal 18: Terminal 18 has the widest berth of all the terminals, as it acts as a homeport for Royal Caribbean and needs to cater to some of the world’s largest cruise ships, like the Symphony of the Seas.
Terminal 19: Hosts Holland America Line Vessels and features modern facilities.
Terminal 21: Also operated by Carnival Corporation, Terminal 21 is the primary terminal for cruise ships operating under the Carnival Cruise Line label.
Terminal 25: Terminal 25 acts as a homeport for Celebrity Cruises.
Terminal 26: A secondary terminal for Holland America, it also hosts ships from other cruise lines when required.
Terminal 29: The port’s multi-purpose cruise terminal is shared by Celebrity Cruises, Holland America, Disney Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, and others.
Port Facilities and Parking
Not only is Port Everglades one of the largest cruise ports on the Eastern Seaboard, but each cruise terminal is equipped with modern amenities and facilities that ensure a comfortable and seamless experience for visiting cruise passengers.
Terminal at Port Everglades (Photo Credit: Solarisys)
Wi-Fi Access: Free Wi-Fi is available anywhere in the Port Everglades area. To sign up, you need a valid email address.
Restrooms: Numerous restroom facilities are scattered throughout the port, including one at each of the eight terminals.
Accessibility: The entire port and each of the terminals are designed to be fully accessible. Elevators, ramps, and wheelchair-friendly restrooms ensure all passengers feel welcome. There is also elevator and escalator access to all of the port’s gangways.
Baggage Services: Curbside porter service for baggage is available near the parking area, as well as the drop-off zone
Tourist Services: On-site staff and tourist information booths are scattered throughout the port. Cruise lines also have information desks at their respective cruise terminals.
Parking
The port offers overnight parking, with two covered garages and three gated ground-level lots offering over 5,500 secured and monitored parking spaces.
Each of the five parking facilities is within walking distance of the terminals, providing straightforward access for those planning to drive to the port. Disabled parking with access to elevators is also available.
Parking Lot at Fort Lauderdale Cruise Port (Photo Credit: Solarisys)
Huron Parking Garage is closer to Terminals 1, 2, and 4, while Palm Parking Garage services Terminals 19, 21, 25, 26, and 29. Complimentary shuttle service is provided to Terminals 26 and 29. The outdoor parking lots are also situated just a short walk from Terminals 19, 21, 25, 26, and 29.
Parking Rates
$4 for the first hour and $8 for up to 5 hours. Beyond 5 hours, you are charged the daily maximum rate.
$20 daily maximum, which includes overnight parking.
$25 per day for oversized vehicles.
There are also clearly designated drop-off and pickup zones, including a dedicated and sheltered waiting area for those looking to pick up debarking cruise passengers.
Cruise Lines That Use Port Everglades
Given that Port Everglades is one of the busiest cruise ports in the world, it is a major hub for departures and port-of-call visits. Given its importance to the cruise industry, as well as its strategic location, it is also used as a homeport by some of the biggest names in the industry:
Cruise Ships Departing Port Everglades (Photo Credit: Allen Furmanski)
Homeport Cruise Lines
Royal Caribbean International
Celebrity Cruises
Holland America Line
Princess Cruises
Disney Cruise Line
Carnival Cruise Line
Other Regular Visitors
Cunard Line
Silversea Cruises
Viking Ocean Cruises
Transportation Options from the Port
Traveling from Port Everglades to various destinations in Fort Lauderdale and beyond is incredibly easy, thanks largely to the wide range of transportation optionsavailable directly from the port:
Taxis
Taxis are by far the most popular transportation option from the cruise port. Cabs are readily available outside of the airport terminals and offer affordable flat rates for some of Fort Lauderdale’s most frequented destinations. For example, a flat rate of $20 is offered to get to Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport.
Cruise Ships Docked at Port Everglades, Florida (Photo Credit:
Darryl Brooks)
Rideshare Services
As mentioned, Fort Lauderdale is a bustling hub for Rideshare apps, including Uber and Lyft. Prices will vary depending on the time of day and demand, so be aware of surge pricing.
Private Car Services and Shuttles
South Florida Shuttles provides shared and private shuttle buses directly from the cruise port. Rates are as low as $14 per person to destinations throughout Port Lauderdale, Miami, and the surrounding areas.
Private car services are also available from the port, but they are more expensive. Rates start at $65 for three passengers, but you can arrange your ride ahead of time and select any pickup and drop-off point.
City Bus
The Broward County Transit System (BCT) Route 1 bus stops outside the port and connects you to the city’s entire bus system. This public transit system is the most affordable option, with one-way fares of $2 and a full 3-day unlimited pass for just $12.
If you want to get around the city in style, you can try out the Sun Trolley, now officially known as LauderGo! It’s a free community shuttle provided by the City of Fort Lauderdale.
Distance from the Airport and Driving Instructions
Given that Port Everglades is just three miles from Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL), flying into the city and taking a short taxi ride to the cruise port is incredibly easy.
Interstate 595 exit to Port Everglades and the airport (Photo Credit: Khairil Azhar Junos)
While timing can vary depending on how much traffic you encounter, most visitors find they can travel between the airport and the port in less than 10 minutes. Not only is it a short drive, it is a relatively simple one:
Driving Directions
Exit FFL Airport onto US-1 N towards Fort Lauderdale. Continue on US-1 for 2.8 miles
Take Miami Rd exit to SE 24th St., then turn left onto Spangler Blvd for 0.7 miles
Merge onto Eisenhower Blvd and follow signs for the Port Everglades Cruise Terminals
Turn onto Eller Drive, and you will arrive at your destination
Transportation Options from the Airport
While you can certainly rent a vehicle and drive yourself to the port from Fort Lauderdale’s airport, there are plenty of taxis, ride-sharing services, and shuttles that can provide rapid and affordable transportation between the two:
Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (Photo Credit: YES Market Media)
Airport Transfer Shuttles: Some cruise lines provide complimentary shuttles from the airport to their cruise terminal, but you should check with the line ahead of time to make sure.
Independent Airport Shuttle Buses: Services like Go Airport Shuttle and South Florida Elite Shuttle Service offer low-cost, shared rides from the airport to the various terminals at Fort Everglades. Prices sit around $10 to $15 per person.
Taxis: By far the most popular transportation option, plenty of taxis operating out of the airport offering a $20 flat rate to Port Everglades. You do not have to book ahead, as there is a designated taxi line where you can wait for a cab.
Ride-Sharing Services: Uber and Lyft operate out of Fort Lauderdale, offering a low-cost, on-demand alternative. Both the airport and Port Everglades itself have designated and sheltered rideshare pickup and drop-off locations, so it couldn’t be easier. Just keep surge pricing in mind if you arrive during the busy season.
Public Transportation: The Broward County Route 1 City Bus links the airport to Port Everglades, providing a budget-friendly option.
Getting to Port Everglades from Miami International Airport
The 29-mile drive from Miami International Airport (MIA) to Port Everglades can take as little as 35 minutes if you do not encounter traffic, but you can also take the Tri-Rail train service from MIA.
Best Time to Visit Fort Lauderdale
Fort Lauderdale’s busy season aligns with its dry season, which runs from November to late April. Not only are temperatures warm and humidity levels low in Fort Lauderdale, but these months are also the most popular for cruise itineraries throughout the Caribbean and Bahamas, so the port is bustling with activity.
View of Fort Lauderdale from Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: Solarisys)
As for seasonal conditions, average temperatures range from 60° to 85°F with dry conditions in the winter and spring. Temperatures rise to between 75° to 90°F in the summer and even into early October. Just be aware that conditions can be incredibly hot and humid from June until August.
Nearby Attractions
Since Port Everglades is so close to both Fort Lauderdale and Miami, there is no shortage of amenities and attractions you can enjoy before or after your cruise. Here are just some of the highlights:
Fort Lauderdale Beach
Just 2.5 miles from the port, this pristine, 24-mile stretch of golden sand beach is open to the public. The beach is lined with palm trees and a boardwalk dotted with restaurants and bars. Soak up some sun and splash in the turquoise waters that will make you forget you’re swimming in the Atlantic Ocean.
Beachfront Avenue in Fort Lauderdale (Photo Credit: Todamo)
The Museum of Discovery and Science
Located just a 3.8-mile taxi ride from Port Everglades, the Museum of Discovery and Science is an exciting and educational attraction well worth visiting. Its interactive exhibits and full-size IMAX theater make it a fun experience for visitors of all ages.
NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale
NSU Art Museum (Photo Credit: Felix Mizioznikov)
One of the most visited art galleries in all of Florida, this one-of-a-kind complex showcases over 6,000 original works of art. It’s also only three miles away from the cruise port. The museum hosts weekly events and features a full book store where you can purchase a unique souvenir of your time in the city.
Las Olas Boulevard
Located roughly three miles from the port, this vibrant street is filled with art galleries, boutiques, shops, and independently owned cafés and restaurants.
It’s a great place to shop and grab a tasty bite. The famous street also stretches to Los Olas Beach, so you can pair a day of shopping with an afternoon of soaking up the sun on the waterfront.
Bonnet House Museum & Gardens
Bonnet House Museum & Gardens (Photo Credit: Brian Logan Photography)
This historic estate is located in the Central Beach neighborhood of Fort Lauderdale, just a six-mile cab ride from the port. Enjoy the calming atmosphere of the estate and its art gallery, as well as the manicured gardens that surround it. A visit will immediately transport you away from the hustle and bustle of a crowded cruise ship.
Everglades National Park
Although the 50-mile journey might be a bit too far if you are only in port for a day, those looking to do some excursions in the area before or after their cruise will enjoy exploring this natural oasis.
See the wildlife of the Florida Everglades, including alligators and crocodiles, in their natural habitat. With airboat tours, hiking trails, and educational centers, it’s a worthwhile drive for nature enthusiasts.
Dining Options Near the Port
Within the port complex, there are limited options for food, but just outside, you can find a wide array of casual and formal dining establishments. If you want to try some local flavors and dishes, Fort Lauderdale is known for Italian American cuisine, so watch for pizza shops and pasta restaurants.
Dining Venues Near Port Everglades (Photo Credit: Todamo)
The city also has large Argentinian and Brazilian populations, so consider treating yourself to an Argentine steakhouse, like Argentino Las Olas or Lasso Gaucho Brazilian Steakhouse.
Southport Raw Bar: Located just over 2 miles from port, this is a popular eatery for fresh seafood favorites, as well as pasta dishes and classic breakfasts. Its casual atmosphere and options for outdoor seating give it a uniquely South Florida feel.
Carrabba’s Italian Grill: This family-friendly chain restaurant and bar is perfect for fussy eaters and those looking for an affordable meal. The prices are more than reasonable, and the food is great! It’s also just a 0.6-mile walk from the port, so it’s a good option if you are low on time.
Joe’s Café:This local favorite offers full American-style breakfasts and classic lunch and dinner staples. Prices are incredibly affordable, and the classic diner feel will make you feel right at home.
Steak 954: If you want to treat yourself, this modern steakhouse is known for its pleasant atmosphere and gourmet steaks. It’s only a 3.5-mile taxi ride from the port, so it isn’t tricky to get to.
15th Street Fisheries: White tablecloths and live music give this Fort Lauderdale staple a formal ambiance. Despite the upscale atmosphere, prices are pretty reasonable, especially given the wide range of fresh seafood dishes available on their menu.
Shopping Recommendations
Fort Lauderdale is a major shopping hub, with everything from high-end designer stores to low-cost budget outlets; it is a great destination for shopping enthusiasts of all budget levels.
For a mix of everything, we highly recommend visiting Las Olas Boulevard. In addition to designer stores, plenty of specialty shops offer unique gifts and souvenirs.
Shopping at Las Olas Boulevard (Photo Credit: Brian Logan Photography)
If you need to pick up a few essentials for your cruise, the Harbor Shops Complex is just one mile away from the port. It features some major retailers, like Publix, CVS, and Total Wine.
If you arrive on a rainy day and want to do indoor shopping, the Galleria at Fort Lauderdale is the city’s premier shopping mall. You’ll find well-known retailers and a full food court with plenty of dining options.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Are there free shuttles from Fort Lauderdale airport to the cruise port?
While there is not an official free shuttle, there are plenty of complimentary shuttle buses available for certain visitors. Many of the hotels near the port offer free transportation to and from the port, while some cruise lines, including Royal Caribbean, provide a free airport shuttle for some of their voyages. Just make sure you check with your cruise line ahead of time.
Can Uber pick you up from the Fort Lauderdale cruise port?
Yes, plenty of Uber drivers are operating in the area, and the Port Everglades has two designated waiting areas for Uber and Lyft pickups.
How far is the Fort Lauderdale cruise port from the airport?
Port Everglades Cruise Port is roughly a ten-minute, three-mile drive from Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport.
Nassau Cruise Port in the Bahamas is set to embark on a new venture with a $35-million water park designed to cater to families. The new development will complement the port’s recent $330-million redevelopment and is expected to be complete in December 2025.
The new water park will be constructed on the port’s western side, in a finger-shaped greenspace near its amphitheater. Although construction is yet to begin, officials at the port note the land is clear, a building permit is already in hand, and it is awaiting approval.
Mike Maura, Nassau Cruise Port’s chief executive, confirmed the plan with the local Tribune Business news agency. “We’re looking at a pool water investment that is going to provide an experience in the downtown area at Nassau Cruise Port so people have something to do that is more recreational and family-oriented,” he said.
Nassau Cruise Port (Photo Credit: Victoria Ditkovsky)
Maura sited family-friendly cruise lines such as Disney Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean International, along with the some of the Bahamas most popular attractions as an incentive behind the new water park.
As the largest port in the Bahamas, Nassau can accommodate up to 30,000 passengers a day, with its record set in December 2023 at 29,316. Officials at the port understand the current offerings, which include shopping, dining, and bars, cannot appeal to the masses. Instead, visitors pass through the port to other Nassau destinations like Paradise Island’s Atlantis Resort, which is said to generate nearly $359 million in revenue annually.
Although Atlantis’ 141-acre Aquaventure Atlantis Water Park is free for hotel guests, day passes are offered to cruise passengers. Prices can range from $140 for children ages 4 to 12 and $255 for adults ages 13 and older.
By creating its own waterpark, the port hopes to turn the facility into a destination. “We want them to have experiences that everyone can participate in and enjoy,” Maura told the Business Tribune.
Currently, many cruise lines with family features visit their own private destinations in the Bahamas to provide water park amusement for kids, including Disney’s Castaway Cay near Abaco and its new Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point in the Out Islands.
Royal Caribbean International is currently constructing its Royal Beach Club on Paradise Island near Atlantis, which it hopes will attract 2,700 guests per day. Also scheduled to open in 2025, the 17-acre resort will feature multiple swimming pools, a small water park for children, and ample beach space with cabanas.
Maura explained, “Nassau Cruise Port will continue to look at our product as part of the downtown destination, and we will continue to tweak and evolve to maintain best-in-class in the region.”
A Hub of Growth and Development
Nassau Cruise Port is experiencing remarkable growth in tourism as the primary gateway into The Bahamas. Beyond setting a new cruise passenger daily record, the port made news again when it accommodated seven cruise ships simultaneously in March 2024.
Passengers in Nassau, Bahamas (Photo Credit: Nassau Cruise Port)
Every major cruise line sailing in the Caribbean visits Nassau, including Norwegian Cruise Line, Silversea Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, MSC Cruises, Virgin Voyages, and Celebrity Cruises.
The first half of 2024 has been a continuation of Nassau’s upward trend, recording nearly 2.8 million passengers by the end of June. This result is a 24 percent increase over the same period in 2023. It’s also 800,000 more cruise passengers than its pre-pandemic figures.
The new waterpark will not only contribute to an increase of visitor spending on the island but is said to create 350 jobs. It follows on the heels of the port’s recent $330-million upgrade that was completed in May 2023. That upgrade led to the new berth allowing Nassau Cruise Port to break its passenger and ship records.
Princess Cruises has announced another celebrity partnership, this time with Tony Gemignani, a 13-time World Pizza Champion known as the world’s best pizza maker.
The American chef and owner of Italian restaurants across the US has created five signature pizzas that guests sailing on all ships in the Princess fleet will soon enjoy.
The pact with Gemignani will debut onboard the line’s newest ship, Sun Princess, where guests at Alfredo’s restaurant can indulge in pizzas that feature delectable ingredients such as soppressata sausage, and Gorgonzola and sweet fig preserve.
Tony Gemignani
Princess Cruises, which touts itself as serving the “Best Pizza at Sea,” will introduce the new pizzas as part of an exciting effort to set a Guinness World Record on July 12, 2024 for having the “Largest Pizza Party.”
To break the record, the cruise line will serve pizza, all made by the line’s master chefs and including the new ones from Gemignani, at multiple venues.
“Princess is about delivering great experiences and there is no more important element than pizza. While Princess has long been known for having the best pizza at sea, we decided to take it up an entirely new level with legendary Tony Gemignani,” said John Padgett, president of Princess Cruises.
To make sure that the Princess Cruises’ chefs can create his pizzas, Chef Gemignani provided training at one of his eateries, Tony’s Pizza Napoletana in San Francisco.
“Bringing my original recipe hand-crafted pizzas inspired by the destinations Princess visits to the world-class line up of culinary offerings onboard its ships is not only exciting but an honor,” said Chef Gemignani.
The pizzas will be served at Alfredo’s and at Gigi’s, another Italian cuisine-inspired restaurant on Princess ships. Both venues charge a fee to guests.
Along with his restaurants and his pizza championships, Chef Gemignani also is a Food Network Gold Medalist and holds four Guinness World Records titles. Television viewers will know him from appearances on “Food Network Challenge,” “Bar Rescue,” and the “Master Class GOAT” series, among other shows and networks.
The California native has opened 30 restaurants and is famous for his various styles of pizzas, such as Classic American, Italian, Sicilian, and Neapolitan, made from artisan flours and a variety of sauces.
Sun Princess Guests Are First to Taste New Pizza Recipes
The 4,300-guest Sun Princess is currently sailing a 21-day Mediterranean cruise roundtrip from Barcelona. The ship will be on the final night of her voyage on July 12, when the cruise line will attempt to set the record for “Largest Pizza Party.”
The ship is sailing a series of 7-, 14-, and 21-day cruises between Barcelona, Rome, Athens, and Southampton through mid-September. On September 14, 2024, Sun Princess repositions to Fort Lauderdale, Florida, where she will homeport while sailing 7- and 14-day Eastern and Western Caribbean cruises through winter 2024-25.
Like other cruise lines, Princess Cruises has several celebrity collaborations that enhance dining and other services onboard its ships.
The most recent one, announced in late June 2024, introduced a new specialty restaurant called Love by Britto, a venue that mixes the artistry of Romero Britto with the culinary creations of Master Chef Rudi Sodamin to create a seven-course dinner in a romantic setting.
The 68-seat venue on Deck 17 charges $79 per person for a menu that features appetizers such as Oysters with Lemongrass Kafir, and heart-shaped entrees like Succulent Beef Tenderloin and Truffle Jus and Tail of Lobster Thermidor, plus desserts including Chocolate Lava Cake.
The line also partners with Dario Cecchini, a famous butcher; Makoto Okuwa, a renowned sushi master; Rob Floyd, a celebrity mixologist; Gerard Bertrand, a Master Winemaker; Darren McGrady, a former Royal Chef, and supermodel Tyra Banks.
Royal Caribbean International announced an update to the itinerary of Spectrum of the Seas‘ March 5, 2025, 4-night roundtrip cruise from Shanghai, China.
Originally set to include a stop at Jeju Island (also referred to as Cheju Island) in South Korea en route to Nagasaki, Japan, the cruise will now modify its schedule due to unforeseen operational difficulties in Jeju.
In a recent notice to the ships’ 4,905 passengers, the cruise line detailed the operational challenges at Jeju’s Seogwipo Gangjeong Cruise Port, prompting a reevaluation of the planned stop. Royal Caribbean will now skip the call and spend an extra day at sea, turning the two-destination cruise into a one-destination getaway.
Royal Caribbean’s Spectrum of the Seas Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: mokjc)
“After exploring all options, and to provide you with the best experience, we’ll now enjoy a Sea Day instead,”stated the cruise line in a letter.“To help make up for the changes, we’ve added two (2) extra hours to our visit to Nagasaki, Japan, so you can explore everything this beautiful destination has to offer.”
The letter went on to apologize for the inconvenience and highlighted offerings for sea day, including surf and boogie boarding on ship’s twin FlowRiders, skydiving sessions at RipCord by iFLY, and lounging at the pool bar.
The revised itinerary begins in Shanghai on March 5, 2025, with the ship setting sail at 4:30 p.m. After a day of cruising, guests will arrive in Nagasaki on March 7, 2025, at 7 a.m. and have until 7 p.m. to enjoy the city. The cruise will conclude with another day at sea before returning to Shanghai on March 9, 2025.
Any excursions booked on Jeju Island will automatically be cancelled and refunded to guests’ original form of payment. Any individually booked excursions will need to be modified by passengers at their own expense.
Jeju’s Seogwipo Port
Jeju Island’s cruise port, Seogwipo Gangjeong Cruise Port, is the largest cruise facility on the island and has been operational since 2017. Designed to accommodate two 220,000-gross-ton cruise ships simultaneously, the port is part of South Korea’s growing cruise market, which is expected to reach $46.91 million in 2024.
Strategically in the southern part of the island, the port is near the Jungmun Tourist Complex and nearby Downtown Seogqipo, known for its natural scenery and vibrant shopping streets.
Jeju port (Photo Credit: Artem Pachkovskyi)
Jeju itself is often referred to as the “Hawaii of Korea.” The island boasts stunning natural sites, including Mount Hallasan, a dormant volcano recognized as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site.
Other attractions include Cheonjeyeon Waterfall, accessible via the Seonimgyo arch bridge, and Manjanggul Cave, an extensive underground lave tunnel.
The operational issues Royal Caribbean International is encountering have not been revealed, and the port is not currently listing construction or expansion issues that could be causing the itinerary change, although Spectrum of the Seas is the largest passenger ship scheduled to arrive at the island in March 2025, weighing 168,666 gross tons.
Other cruises calling on that month include Norwegian Cruise Line’s nearly 76,000-gross-ton Norwegian Spirit, arriving on March 11 and 14; Silversea’s 40,8791-gross-ton Silver Muse, arriving on March 13and 23; AIDA Cruises’ 71,300-gross-ton AIDAstella, arriving on March 20; and Seabourn’s 32,000-gross-ton Quest, arriving on March 21.
Spectrum of the Seas is also scheduled to visit the island on March 17. The cruise line has not altered that itinerary.
The Tokyo-based Oriental Land Company, operator of two Disney theme parks in Japan, is expanding its partnership with the iconic American company to include the construction of a Disney Wish-class ship based year-round in Tokyo. The Meyer Werft shipyard in Germany will build the ship, which will be designed specifically for the Japanese market.
Announcements from the shipyard, Disney, and Oriental Land Company (OLC) on July 9, 2024 confirmed that a 140,000-gross ton vessel will debut in 2029 with popular Disney Cruise Line amenities plus new experiences and modifications geared to Japanese guests.
Like Disney Wish, the new-build will offer 1,250 staterooms with a capacity for 4,000 guests.
Disney and Oriental Land Co., Ltd. (Credit: Disney)
“With this new order, we look forward to continuing our relationship with Disney and working with Oriental Land Company, which also has a long-standing relationship with Disney, as a new customer. This is a strong signal for shipbuilding in Papenburg and shows that companies from all over the world rely on the quality of Meyer Werft,” said Bernd Eikens, CEO of Meyer Group.
The agreement between Disney and OLC is the latest in a four-decade-long business association that began in 1983 with the opening of Tokyo Disneyland, the first Disney park to open in a foreign country. In 2001, the two collaborated to introduce a second operation, Tokyo DisneySea, an ocean-themed park overlooking Tokyo Bay.
OLC also operates Tokyo Disney Resort, featuring hotels and a dining and entertainment complex. With the new agreement to build a cruise ship, cruisers in the Japanese market and in other nearby Asian nations will have the opportunity to experience a Disney-style vacation at sea from a local homeport.
“Disney Cruise Line has ambitious plans to bring family vacations and Disney storytelling to more guests around the world than ever before,” said Josh D’Amaro, chairman of Disney Experiences.
“We are thrilled to continue the success of this expansion as we collaborate with Oriental Land Co. to introduce another distinctly Disney vacation experience to families and fans in Japan,” added D’Amaro.
Bernard Meyer & Kenji Yoshida (Credit: Meyer Werft)
The announcement noted that the new ship will benefit from the creativity of Walt Disney Imagineering, as did the first vessel in the class, Disney Wish, which launched in 2022.
The ship introduced the popular AquaMouse water coaster, Frozen and Marvel-themed restaurants, and a Star Wars Hyperspace Lounge, among other exciting features. The ship also offered an adults-only zone.
The new pact with OLC will bring these and other amenities and services to the Japanese market.
“I am sincerely proud that Disney and Oriental Land will be able to work together to create a world-class cruise business in Japan,” said Yumiko Takano, representative director, chairman, and CEO of Oriental Land Company.
“Oriental Land will use their knowhow from the theme park business to continue pushing boundaries and provide family entertainment cruise experiences filled with inspiration and surprise,” Yakano added.
German Shipyard Has Two Disney Ships Under Construction
Meyer Werft currently is constructing two ships for Disney Cruise Line — Disney Treasure, slated to debut in late 2024, and Disney Destiny, expected to enter service in 2025.
Early this month, Disney Cruise Line released a sneak peek at decks 11 and 12 onboard Disney Treasure, as it shared some details in a construction update.
In March 2024, the cruise line revealed the name of Disney Destiny and shared that it will sport a “Heroes and Villains” theme.
Along with Disney Wish, the cruise line operates Disney Magic and Disney Wonder, both Magic-class ships, and Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy, both Dream-class ships. The cruise line is largely geared to youngsters, who can interact with Disney’s iconic characters and enjoy experiences tied to Disney movies and superheroes.
Disney cast members—the company’s employees on land and at sea—always strive to make magic for their guests. But sometimes, the roles reverse, and it’s the guest who makes magic for the crew member.
When Nikki Kennedy, her husband Tanner, and their 18-month old daughter, Blair, embarked on a 10-night Mediterranean sailing onboard Disney Magic in 2019, the family formed a special bond with their server, a kind man named Aaron.
All Disney Cruise Line ships feature a rotational dining program, which means that the servers follow their families and couples to different restaurants each night of the cruise. This allows them to really get to know their patrons, better anticipate their needs, and offer personalized service.
Nikki Kennedy and Aaron (Photo Credit: Nikki Kennedy)
But Aaron went above and beyond Disney’s standard for top-notch service, making the cruise so magical for their family – and their young daughter specifically – that they asked the crew member to pose for a photo with Blair.
They saved one copy for themselves and used a portable printer to leave Aaron a copy as a token of appreciation.
When Nikki returned to Disney’s first cruise ship in the summer of 2024 for a work-related trip as part of her job as a travel planner, she never expected to reunite with Aaron—or that they would both remember each other five years later.
In a video on her TikTok (@yourfamilytravelplanner), which has been viewed nearly 200,000 times since its posting on June 20, 2024, the travel expert detailed their heartwarming reunion.
In the video, Nikki spotted Aaron from across the dining room and was stunned that her favorite server was still making magic onboard the 2,400-passenger vessel. The pair instantly recognized each other.
“I went over and told him he was our server and before I could continue he says, ‘Wait I know. Kenn…Tanner Kennedy. I still have the picture you left me in my cabin, gets me through hard days,” Nikki wrote in text over a new photo from her reunion with Aaron.
Her short but sweet TikTok concluded with the original photo of Aaron smiling as he posed with her toddler and high praise for Disney Cruise Line’s wait staff.
The Pros And Cons Of Life As A DCL Cast Member
While it’s unclear which sailing Nikki undertook, as she says the sweet reunion with Aaron took place a few weeks prior to posting, the 83,000-gross ton ship has been spending the summer operating 4-5 night Bahamian cruises out of Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
The sailings primarily call on Nassau, Bahamas, and Disney’s Lighthouse Point, the cruise line’s new private Destination in the Bahamasthat just opened on June 7, 2024. Longer sailings also include stops at Castaway Cay, Disney’s first private island in the Bahamas.
Photo Credit: Melissa Mayntz
But while being a crew member on a Disney ship comes with many perks—including seeing the world and participating in landmark events like the opening of a new private destination—it’s also not easy.
Disney Magic is home to approximately 950 crew members, who commit to working and living on board for three to eight months at a time. According to Disney’s career website, the average contract length is between four to six months.
Working on a cruise ship is not all that luxurious either, especially for an entry level position like waiter or food prep roles.
These positions typically entail long hours with no days off, strict rules to follow, demanding (and sometimes rude) guests, and tiny cabins that are often shared – with no privacy and no windows.
Being away from their families and working in these conditions can certainly take its toll, but these positive guest encounters – such as the one Aaron experienced with Nikki’s family – can provide hope and motivation for crew members when they need it most.
