Monday, April 1, 2024

Cruise Ports in Florida: Everything You Need to Know 7 Ports

florida cruise ports

From luxurious voyages around the world to intimate trips to Caribbean isles, Port Everglades is the starting point for a myriad of adventures. Setting sail from the Port of Miami seamlessly blends the excitement of travel with the charm and vibrancy of Miami itself, ensuring your journey begins on a note of wonder. Touted as the “Cruise Capital of the World,” the Port of Miami stands as a symbol of both Miami’s rich maritime heritage and its present-day status as a global hub for cruise tourism. With Pan American World Airways initiating scheduled seaplane service from Miami in the 1930s, and the subsequent growth of South Beach as a vacation hotspot, the port expanded rapidly. Miami, with its strategic location, began its maritime history as a trading post.

Well-Known Western Caribbean Cruise Ports You Should Visit

florida cruise ports

They can explore landmarks such as the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, where the famous writer once resided. Key West also offers a range of cultural experiences, including art galleries, street performers, and lively festivals. Embark on an unforgettable cruise from the Port of Tampa Bay and experience the best that Florida has to offer. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or a first-time traveler, the port’s top-notch facilities and exciting itineraries will ensure a memorable vacation.

Jaxport

Located on the westernmost tip of the islands that make up the Florida Keys, the city of Key West has a distinctly Florida charm highlighted by its Old Town historic district and pastel houses. Other nearby activities and points of interest include the Museum of Discovery and Science, Ft. Lauderdale Beach, downtown Hollywood, Bonnet House Museum & Gardens, and the Jungle Queen Riverboat Cruise. Regent Seven Seas, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania, MSC Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Azamara, and Carnival Cruise Line all set sail from PortMiami. Traveling from Miami International Airport to PortMiami takes up to around 20 minutes, depending on the traffic, and the distance is just over 8 miles.

I cruised Royal Caribbean from Tampa for the first time. Here's what a cruise from this smaller port is like. - Royal Caribbean Blog

I cruised Royal Caribbean from Tampa for the first time. Here's what a cruise from this smaller port is like..

Posted: Fri, 17 Nov 2023 08:00:00 GMT [source]

Wander South Beach

For those interested in art, the Tampa Museum of Art is a short distance away. Port Everglades, the only U.S. cruise port adjacent to an international airport, is easily accessible and just 10 minutes from the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL). Alaska Airlines, Allegiant, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, JetBlue, Silver Airways, Southwest, Spirit and United all fly here from gateways across the U.S. This modern urban street art museum set in the projects is around 20 minutes in an Uber from the Miami cruise port, and this alone makes Miami a must-visit cruise port in Florida.

Royal Caribbean International

The main cruise line that used the port was American Queen Voyages, whose smaller ships explored some of the lesser-known destinations around the US coastline. Port Everglades is the third-busiest cruise port in Florida and in the world, with an estimated number of passengers coming through the port of around 3.8 million per year. And, over a period of time, you may duplicate your experience on another cruise because a day in a particular port doesn’t do the destination justice. However, they may fit your plans or needs when it comes to choosing the perfect cruise. It should be noted that Key West is a cruise port, but it is a destination and not a port for embarkation.

While its port operations began with cargo and trade, the allure of the Caribbean and the Bahamas made it a prime spot for shorter luxury cruise getaways. Over the decades, it grew exponentially, with the addition of new terminals, infrastructure, and services catering to the booming cruise industry. Strategically, there are three piers utilized by several hundred visiting ships each year, that are sailing to or from the Caribbean.

Miami, FL

While rockets soared overhead, the port began catering to fishing vessels and cargo ships in the 1950s. With Florida’s tourism boom, it wasn’t long before cruise liners became a familiar sight, taking advantage of the port’s prime location along Florida’s east coast. Grab a bite to eat at one of the many eateries that range from upscale dining to locally-owned seafood shacks.

Why Cruisers Love Key West

Our favorite place to stay near the Port of Tampa is the Water Street Marriott. The Port of Tampa is situated on the west coast of Florida, along the Gulf of Mexico. Terminal 3, also known as “The Cove,” is a state-of-the-art facility designed for Carnival Cruise Line. It features modern amenities and streamlined processes to enhance the passenger experience. Port Canaveral is situated on the Atlantic coast of Florida, approximately 45 miles east of Orlando.

Proximity to Attractions

Remember, exploring the local cuisine is a key part of the cruise port experience. For more tips on making the most of your cruise port visit, refer to our article on top cruise ports. Florida, renowned as the “Cruise Capital of the World,” is an ideal starting point for various cruise voyages due to its strategic location and ease of access. It offers a range of ports that cater to different cruise lines and destinations, making it a versatile choice for vacationers. Fort Lauderdale is a vibrant vacation destination on its own, but it's also one of the easiest home ports for embarking on a cruise.

To add some perspective, the winter months—viewed as high season thanks to Florida’s enviable warmth while other regions shiver—experience a surge in cruisers. Your vacation starts the moment you arrive in Florida, so picking a port close to fun attractions can be a game-changer. Additionally, Disney cruises occasionally leave from other Florida ports, such as Miami and Fort Lauderdale, depending on the itinerary.

florida cruise ports

These cruises offer an upscale experience, with fine dining, luxurious accommodations, and plenty of activities and entertainment onboard. Cruises departing from Port Everglades offer itineraries to the Caribbean, South America, Europe, and other popular destinations. Port Everglades offers a range of facilities and amenities for cruisers, including a variety of dining options, stores, and entertainment venues nearby. One of South Florida’s most popular dining and shopping destinations, the waterfront Las Olas Boulevard, is only 15 minutes away. This makes it an excellent choice for those who want to combine a cruise vacation with a trip to some of Florida’s top-rated theme parks like Disney World and Universal Studios. The port is also conveniently located near several top-rated hotels, making it easy for cruisers to find accommodation before or after their trip.

Margaritaville at Sea offers cruisers a themed adventure en route to the Bahamas from the Port of Palm Beach. From luxury shops to unique boutiques, Florida’s cruise port cities cater to all shopping preferences. Downtown Miami features a variety of stores and is close to Miami International Airport, providing ease for travelers. Dining options abound with a focus on fresh seafood and authentic Cuban cuisine. Las Olas Boulevard in Fort Lauderdale and the Channelside Bay Plaza in Tampa are notable spots for shopping and dining.

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