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A sign from he highway welcomes travelers to the Tampa International Airport in Florda
Departure Ports, Hotels, Tampa Bay, United States

Tampa Hotels for Cruisers with Shuttle to the Cruise Port

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Hotels Near Tampa Cruise Port If you’re staying in Tampa the night before a cruise out of Port Tampa Bay, you’ll find many great hotel options, many close to the port and some with shuttle service, although the choice can sometimes feel overwhelming. Florida is home to several cruise ports, including two of the biggest in the world — Port Miami and Port Canaveral — and Port Tampa Bay is very small in comparison. I like this port because it isn’t as bustling as the giant ones, but it’s still well-run with efficient boarding, and the terminal is clean and modern. When it comes to my recommendations for affordable Tampa hotels, which are below, I will include a caveat. During peak times in the area, such as when Tampa’s annual Gasparilla Pirate Festival or other big events are happening, hotel pricing can spike due to high demand. In this case, budget-conscious cruisers might consider properties located in nearby Clearwater, Brandon, or Dundein. Ybor City is Tampa Bay’s historic Latin quarter. Downtown Tampa is a great place to stay, and less than two miles from the port, but it’s a pricier location, so cruisers seeking a hotel that’s affordable will find more budget-friendly options by the Tampa International Airport (TPA), which is only about seven miles from Port Tampa Bay. Hotels adjacent to Port Tampa Bay generally cost more than airport area hotels, but many cruisers still go that route for the convenience of location. book a cruise from Tampa Affordable Tampa Hotels Near Cruise Port Hampton Inn Tampa Downtown Channel District Address: 1155 E Kennedy Blvd, Tampa, FloridaOf all the hotel options in the Port Tampa Bay area, this is one of the closest at a little more than half a mile and is walkable in under 10 minutes. It’s also the rare hotel that provides free shuttle to the cruise port, and the times the shuttle runs varies daily depending on the cruise port schedule. Another benefit to this property for budget savvy cruisers it that it offers free hot breakfast — none of that continental business. Parking is high, though, at $32.25 per day, but cruisers parking for a longer period of time can get $11.99 daily parking through Rightway Parking, a third-party parking provider. BOOK Home2Suites by Hilton Channel District Address: 1155 East Kennedy Boulevard, Tampa, FloridaAnother hotel that’s less than a mile from the Tampa cruise port is Home2Suites, where cruisers can reach their terminal in just about a 12-minute walk, depending on the terminal. Guests staying here enjoy free hot breakfast, buffet-style, from 6-10 am and free shuttle to the port, which is available on a first come, first served basis. Like with Hampton Inn, nightly parking here is high at $30 per day, but the property recommends that cruisers parking there during their cruise book through third-party parking provider Rightway Parking for better pricing at around $11.99 per day. BOOK Tampa Airport Hotel Option Quality Inn Tampa Airport1020 South Dale Mabry Highway, Tampa, Florida Cruisers who prefer a more affordable option, and don’t mind being a bit further from port often choose this property. This is also a great choice for cruisers who fly in on a late flight. Benefits of staying here are that it’s obviously close to the airport for cruisers flying in, and they also offer a free shuttle to the property from the Tampa Airport. In addition, shuttle service is available to the cruise port for $10 per person, set up at check in; although unless you’re a solo cruiser, Uber is likely a more affordable choice at around $13-20 per ride. Parking here is $12 per day, but the cheaper option for those parking during their cruise is the property’s “park and cruise” package, which includes a one-night stay, up to 14 days of parking, and cruise port shuttle service for two. Free hot breakfast is available from 6-9 am. BOOK Getting to Port Tampa Bay from the Airport These are all great hotels in Tampa, which are consistently highly ranked by cruisers sailing from Port Tampa Bay, but I advise folks not to book them (or any property) because of the fact that these hotels offer a shuttle to the cruise port. Instead, consider convenience, hotel ratings, location, and other amenities when deciding. If you opt to stay at a hotel near the Tampa Airport, complimentary shuttle service is generally provided, but this is not typically an amenity offered by hotel properties by Port Tampa Bay. My post here highlights various transfer options to get you from the airport to the cruise port. Get Tampa transfer prices Things to Do in Tampa Before Your Cruise If you have time to kill in Tampa before embarking on a cruise, consider a morning in Ybor City. There are locations in this charming and historic district, which is located less than three miles from port, where you can pay a small fee to securely store your bags and then explore the many nearby stores and restaurants before your cruise. Other popular Tampa attractions include the Busch Gardens theme park, Florida Aquarium, ZooTampa, and Tampa Riverwalk. Book Your Tampa Hotel Now Things to Know About the Tampa Cruise Port

A Carnival cruise ship is seen from a cruise terminal.
Departure Ports, Jacksonville, United States

Exploring the Jacksonville Cruise Port: All You Need to Know

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The Jacksonville cruise port, also known as “JAXPORT,” is one of the smaller ports in Florida. It is basically a hub just for Carnival cruises, but it still sees a steady flow of over 1 million cruise passengers yearly. JAXPORT is tiny compared to the other Florida ports, including two of the biggest in the world — Port Canaveral and Port Miami. Unlike the other cruise ports in Florida, which generally service many of the major cruise lines, the Jacksonville Cruise Port offers cruise service solely from Carnival, where cruises depart from the JAXPORT Cruise Terminal in North Jacksonville year-round, including four-day and five-day cruises to The Bahamas. Carnival ships sailing out of Jacksonville Cruise Port are Ecstasy and Elation. While JAXPORT is presently utilized only by Carnival, Norwegian has announced plans to sail from the Jacksonville cruise port starting in November 2025.  explore cruises from jaxport Until November 2025, Carnival is the only cruise line to offer sailings from JAXPORT. Getting to the Jacksonville Cruise Port The Jacksonville cruise port is about 10 miles from the Jacksonville airport, which is about a 15-25 minute drive, depending on traffic. Since JAXPORT is such a small cruise port, transportation options from the airport to port are more limited than other departure ports. There are no rental car companies located at the JAXPORT Cruise Terminal. Cruise Line Transfer: Most cruise lines offer transfer service from airport to port, but Jaxport is the exception, as Carnival does not provide this service here. Taxi Service: JAXPORT’s franchised taxi service provides taxi and shuttle service between the cruise terminal and Jacksonville Airport. Cruisers can contact the taxi service at 904- 222-2222 and call 904-338-9595, Option 2, for shuttle and special needs transportation. Rideshare: When it comes to getting to port, I typically recommend using Uber, which for this distance runs $20-30, depending on the time of day and other factors. Private Transfer: Cruisers can book their own private transfer service, which is much more convenient than cruise line transfer service or hotel transfer services, which is typically on a bus or shuttle with other cruisers. Get Transfer offers transfer service for up to three people from the airport to Jaxport starting at $37, or cruisers traveling in a larger group can book a van for up to 8 people starting at $56 or a minibus for up to 16 people starting at $110. Public Transportation: There aren’t any easily accessible public transportation options to get to JAXPORT. get private transfer pricing Best Jacksonville Hotels for Cruisers This is a lengthy topic, so I created a separate post detailing the best Jacksonville hotels near the cruise port with shuttle service. compare jacksonville hotel prices Jacksonville Cruise Port Parking The address for the JAXPORT Cruise Terminal parking facility is 9810 August Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32226, and directions are available on the facility’s website. Situated on JAXPORT property, the parking area is well-lighted and securely fenced, and is conveniently located just steps away from the cruise terminal building. Parking is monitored round-the-clock by JAXPORT security personnel, and there are designated disabled parking spaces are provided for those in need. The Jacksonville Cruise Port does not require advance reservations, although advance bookings are available for added convenience on the Jaxport Cruise Terminal Parking website. The cost of parking at the Jacksonville Cruise Port is $17 per day, or $34 per day for oversized vehicles.   Jacksonville Cruise Schedule Cruisemapper provides a real-time ship schedule for JAXPORT.   Things to Do in New Jacksonville Before a Cruise If you’re staying at a Jacksonville hotel the night before your cruise from JAXPORT, or have a morning to kill before your cruise, there are plenty of things to do in the area. The city’s vibrant cultural scene offers attractions such as the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens and the Museum of Contemporary Art Jacksonville. The Jacksonville Zoo and Anheuser Busch Brewery are also big attractions in the area, along with the scenic downtown Riverwalk,

A woman and her daughter pose on a Carnival crise ship docked at Port Canaveral in Florida
Departure Ports, Hotels, Port Canaveral, United States

Port Canaveral Hotels in the Cocoa Beach Area: Shuttles & More

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Cocoa Beach Hotels Port Canaveral is a popular cruise port in Cape Canaveral, Florida, located about 45 minutes (approximately 47 miles) from the Orlando International Airport (MCO). Given its close proximity to the theme park capital of the world, some travelers choose to drive or fly in 1-2 days before their cruise to stay at a hotel in Orlando and enjoy the area’s many attractions, but others prefer a property that is close to Port Canaveral, like these hotels, many of which offer shuttle service to port. If you choose to stay near the port, you can opt for an affordable hotel just minutes from port and with shuttle service, and I detail my top picks here. If you’re a “sand and sun” type who wants to add on an extra beach day before your cruise, I recommend a beachfront hotel in nearby Cocoa Beach, just about 15 minutes from Port Canaveral and 20 minute from Kennedy Space Center. Below are my top recommendations. Beachfront Hotels in Cocoa Beach Hampton Inn Cocoa Beach/Cape CanaveralAddress: 3425 N Atlantic Ave, Cocoa Beach, FL, 32931The Hampton Inn is “beachside”, meaning it’s a short walk to Cocoa Beach, and also in close proximity to restaurants and shops such as Ron Jon Surf Shop. Vendors at the beach rent umbrellas, chairs, and boogie boards to travelers, and guests can use towels from the pool area to take and use at the beach. The property offers free Wi-Fi and complimentary breakfast, and shuttle service to and from Port Canaveral is available at a cost of $10 per person or $16 per person round trip (scheduled in advance or at check-in). An Uber, however, may be a more affordable and convenient option. Parking is $12 for guests overnight for their stay, and additional parking beyond the stay is $15 per night. Hampton Inn does offer “Park and Cruise For Two” bundled option, which includes shuttle service for two and parking for up to 7 nights built into the room rate, but this is likely only cost-effective for longer 6-7 night cruises. Best Western Cocoa BeachAddress: 5600 N Atlantic Ave, Cocoa Beach, FL, 32931This property is well regarded by cruisers for its value, cleanliness, and proximity to Cocoa Beach (just a short four-minute walk), although beach towels are not provided. Guests enjoy free Wi-Fi and hot breakfast, and shuttle service to port is available for $10 per person each way. Shuttles run 10:30 am, 11:30 am, and 12:30 pm, and guests schedule this upon check-in. Again, I urge cruisers to check Uber rates, which may be more affordable and convenient. Parking is available for $12 per night. Parking is $10 per night and Best Western offers a “Stay and Cruise” rate. Like some other hotels near cruise ports, this rate offers cruisers a bundled option, including the overnight stay, along with round trip shuttle to port for two, and parking. The distinction here is that there is no limitation to the number of nights, making this an attractive option for travelers embarking on a lengthy cruise. Beachside Hotel & SuitesAddress: 3901 N Atlantic Ave, Cocoa Beach, FL, 32931The standout feature of Beachside Hotel is its close proximity to Cocoa Beach, located just 315 feet behind the hotel, and its impressive pool area, which features a lazy river. Guests enjoy free Wi-Fi and hot breakfast and complimentary use of beach chairs, umbrellas, bikes, and surfboards, although these are limited in supply each day and are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Guests may also use the hotel’s pool towels at the beach. As for shuttle service, Beachside offers a “Fly, Snooze & Cruise” transportation package, which can be purchased individually at $80 per person and includes for two people the following: transportation from MCO to the hotel, shuttle to the port and at disembarkation return transportation back to MCO from the cruise port. Parking is free on the first night for cruisers traveling by car, and then $10 per additional night. The shuttle each way to Port Canaveral is $10 per person. Getting to Port Canaveral from the Airport There are over 30 Cocoa Beach hotels, but these consistently rank among the top choices for travelers cruising out of Port Canaveral. When it comes to getting to these properties from the MCO airport, there are four main options. To view these options, and see the pricing for each of them, is check out my post here. Things to Do Near Cocoa Beach Book Your Cocoa Beach Hotel Now Best Port Canaveral Hotels for Cruisers

Carnival Elation docked at Port Canaveral in Florida
Departure Ports, Hotels, Port Canaveral, United States

Affordable Hotels Near Port Canaveral with Shuttles, Parking & More

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Hotels Near Port Canaveral This is one of the busiest cruise ports in the world, so many cruisers seek out Port Canaveral hotels, which is about 47 miles from the Orlando International Airport (MCO) in Florida, a 45-minute to one-hour drive. Some cruisers opt to come into the area a day or two early and stay in Orlando to enjoy the many theme parks and attractions there, but others prefer a hotel option that is close to Port Canaveral, in the city of Cape Canaveral, and that offers shuttle service to port (although this may come at a cost). My recommendations on transfer options are at the bottom of this post. Cruisers typically seek out affordable hotels in Cape Canaveral, but this is a bustling area — especially during peak cruise season — which can drive up prices, making “affordable” a relative term. Not only are these hotels near Port Canaveral, but they’re also just about 15 minutes from Cocoa Beach and 20 minutes from Kennedy Space Center. If you prefer a beachfront hotel, check out this post. But if you’re searching for an affordable hotel near Cape Canaveral with a shuttle to the port, read on. Affordable Port Canaveral Hotels Country Inn & Suites at Port CanaveralAddress: 9009 Astronaut Blvd., Cape Canaveral, FL 32920This property is one of the top-rated hotels by cruisers because it’s the closest to port, just half a mile, and provides a “Park and Stay” bundled package, including room, parking, and shuttle to port for cruisers who drive in and need parking during their cruise. Country Inn offers guests free Wi-Fi and hot breakfast, and the shuttle to Port Canaveral for guests staying on a non-“Park and Stay” rate is $5 per person. An Uber from Country Inn to Port Canaveral cruise port in comparison, however, is only around $9, so that may be a better, more convenient option. Radisson Resort at PortAddress: 8701 Astronaut Blvd., Cape Canaveral, FL 32920This property is less than two miles, a five-minute drive, from Port Canaveral and receives high marks from cruisers due to its location to port. This is a popular choice among families because of its pool area, including a designated kiddie pool, and it offers free Wi-Fi, although breakfast is not included. Radisson offers a shuttle to Port Canaveral at the cost of $6 per person, which is reserved at check-in, and shuttle service to and from MCO airport is $28 per person each way and must be reserved 48 hours in advance. However, an Uber is likely a more affordable and convenient option. Parking is available for $12 per night. Hampton Inn & Suites Cape CanaveralAddress: 9004 Astronaut Blvd., Cape Canaveral, FL 32920Just one mile from the port is Hampton Inn, which is highly regarded by cruisers for its proximity to the port, cleanliness, and value. Guests here enjoy free Wi-Fi and hot breakfast, and the shuttle to the port is reserved at check-in, running 10:30 and 11:45 am daily at a cost of $10 per person. At just around a $9 fare from hotel to port, however, Uber is likely a better option. Hampton Inn offers parking, but at a high cost of $25 per day, parking at the port is a much more affordable and convenient option. Titusville Hotel Option Casa Coquina del Mar in TitusvilleAddress: 4010 Coquina Avenue, Titusville, FL, 32780If you’re looking for more of an “experience”, than just a place to lay your head pre-cruise, you might want to consider Casa Coquina del Mar in Titusville. This charming bed and breakfast is a five-minute drive to Enchanted Forest Sanctuary and the United States Astronaut Hall of Fame, and 15 minutes from port and the Kennedy Space Center. Getting to Port Canaveral from the Airport These are all great hotels in Cape Canaveral, which are consistently highly ranked by cruisers sailing from Port Canaveral, but I advise folks not to book them (or any property) because of the fact that these hotels offer a shuttle to the cruise port. Instead, consider convenience, hotel ratings, location, and other amenities when deciding. There are four main options for cruisers to get to Port Canaveral from MCO airport, and all of these choices – and their pricing – is detailed in my post here. When you compare pricing, you may find that the hotel shuttle service is not the best option. Things to Do Near Port Canaveral Book Your Port Canaveral Hotel Now Best Port Canaveral Hotels for Cruisers

The welcome sign to the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
Departure Ports, Port Everglades, United States

What You Need to Know about the Fort Lauderdale Cruise Port: Parking, Hotels, Schedule & More

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About Port Everglades The cruise port in Fort Lauderdale is officially named “Port Everglades,” and it technically straddles not just Fort Lauderdale but also Hollywood and Dania Beach. It’s only about 29 miles from Port Miami, and while small comparatively, Port Everglades accommodates nearly 3 million cruise passengers annually. There are eight terminals at Port Everglades, and they are numbered: Terminals 2, 4, 18, 19, 21, 25, 26 and 29. Cruisers can determine their departure terminal by consulting their cruise documents provided by the cruise line, but upon arrival at the port, signage will indicate where each cruise ship is docked. There are three entrances to the port, and each terminal has a different address, but using the general Port Everglades address for their administrative office, 1850 Eller Drive in Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316, will get you there. Signage at the port entrance will direct cruisers to their terminal. Cruisers flying to Port Everglades should also search for flights to Miami, as the Port Everglades to Miami airport distance is only about 26 miles, or a 45-60 minute drive, depending upon traffic. Getting to the Fort Lauderdale Cruise Port Port Everglades is only about three miles from FLL (Fort Lauderdale Airport), which is approximately an 8-15 minute drive, depending upon traffic. Getting from the FLL airport to Port Everglades is easy, and there are several options. Each cruise line will likely offer a transfer option, bussing guests from the airport to the pier, but I recommend rideshare like Uber to get from the airport to the cruise port because it’s much more convenient and cost-effective. Given the proximity of Fort Lauderdale/Port Everglades to Miami airport, I always encourage cruisers to compare pricing of flying in to MIA when sailing out of Port Everglades, as there can sometimes be a significant difference if costs. If you find a cheaper Miami flight and are sailing out of Port Everglades, the cost of an Uber will run approximately $45-75. Best Fort Lauderdale Hotels for Cruisers This is an involved topic, so I wrote not one but two separate posts about this: 1) My recommendations of best Fort Lauderdale hotels with a shuttle to port, and 2) My top picks for beachfront hotels near Port Everglades. Port Everglades Cruise Port Parking Some nearby Fort Lauderdale hotels offer “park and stay” packages, including transportation from the hotel to the cruise port. While you can park your car at Port Everglades, budget-conscious cruisers may seek out an offsite parking option that shuttles them from the parking location to the cruise port. Airport Parking Reservations provides this service for Port Everglades cruisers at a uch lower cost, approximately $7-15 per day. Port Everglades Schedule The Fort Lauderdale cruise port ship schedule can be found directly on the port’s website.

A colorful lifeguard stand at Las Olas Beach in Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Departure Ports, Hotels, Port Everglades, United States

Best Fort Lauderdale Beach Hotels for a Pre-Cruise Stay

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When cruising out of Port Miami and Port Everglades, some cruisers may opt to fly into Fort Lauderdale (FLL) airport, which can provide the opportunity to add an additional beach day before the start of a cruise. With so many options in Fort Lauderdale, the choice can be overwhelming. For those seeking an affordable pre-cruise option in the area, here are my suggestions, but for beachfront “splurge” options, keep reading. But first, like my recommendations for Miami area beachfront hotels, I do not recommend staying at a beach hotel in March and April, as this is “spring break season” and the beaches are filled to the brim with rowdy students. Also, like Miami, the Fort Lauderdale area is generally more expensive than other cities with ports of call, and with beachside or beachfront hotels, you may also have to pay resort fees. Best Fort Lauderdale Beach Hotels Before a Cruise W Fort Lauderdale401 North Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, FL, 33304This Marriott property is a luxury hotel with beachside access, meaning guests must cross the street to access the beach. This is a small inconvenience, though, because once there, guests have access to complimentary loungers, umbrellas, and towels, and there are numerous restaurants – some with live music – in close proximity to the hotel. It’s only about 13-15 minutes from the port, so getting there via Uber is quick and affordable. The resort fee is $45 per night and includes other amenities such as use of bicycles and yoga classes. Lago Mar Beach Club & Resort Address: 1700 South Ocean Lane, Fort Lauderdale, FL, 33316This property is less than five miles from the port and is consistently rated as one of the best hotels in Fort Lauderdale, although its luxury and high quality come at a price, as Lago Mar is also one of the pricier hotel options in the area. Cruisers willing to splurge, however, will likely find an amazing experience here, with top-notch service and unparalleled cleanliness. Noted for its family-friendly and quiet vibe, this hotel offers easy access to 500 feet of private beach, along with complimentary towels and beach chairs (although umbrellas come at a cost), and no additional resort fees. Hotel Maren Fort Lauderdale BeachAddress: 525 S. Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316This property has the look and feel of a boutique hotel, but it’s part of the Hilton Curio Collection. This Fort Lauderdale hotel is highly rated, and moderately priced compared to other beachfront hotel options. Located directly across the street from Las Olas Beach, Hotel Maren is a short walk from several bars and restaurants. The daily resort fee of $45 covers guest access to beach chairs, towels, yoga class, Wi-Fi access, and daily signature drink, although umbrellas are an additional rental cost. This hotel is located about six miles from the port. Getting to Port Everglades There are many great Fort Lauderdale beach hotel options, but these are my top three recommendations based on consideration of cost, location, and guest ratings, and proximity to the beach. When it comes to getting to the port area (where these properties are generally located) from the Fort Lauderdale airport, there are four main options. To view these options, and see the pricing for each of them, check out my Port Everglades post. To get from these hotels to Port Everglades, private transfer service through Get Transfer starts at $31 for up to three people, $56 for a van that fits up to 8 people, and $64 for a minivan that accommodates up to 16 passengers. Comparatively, an Uber for up to four people costs around $10-15, plus tip. Things to do Near Fort Lauderdale Book Your Fort Lauderdale Hotel Now Best Port Everglades Hotels for Cruisers

A view from a high rise balcony in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida shows a Holland America cruise ship in the distance
Departure Ports, Hotels, Port Everglades, United States

Best Fort Lauderdale Hotels for Cruisers with Cruise Port Shuttle

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Hotels Near Port Everglades Cruisers looking for hotels near Port Everglades often seek out a Fort Lauderdale hotel that’s also near the city’s airport (FLL), which is about four miles away, and one that provides a shuttle to the port. If you’re looking for an affordable Fort Lauderdale hotel, but one that is reliable and highly rated by cruisers, keep reading. However, if you’re interested in adding an extra beach day before your cruise, by spending more for a beachfront hotel near Port Everglades, check out my post here. While Fort Lauderdale is more affordable than the Port Miami area, which is about 27 miles away, hotels here are more expensive than other cruise ports, such as Port Canaveral, so “affordable” is relative. Hotels Near Port Everglades Cruisers looking for hotels near Port Everglades often seek out a Fort Lauderdale hotel that’s also near the city’s airport (FLL), which is about four miles away, and one that provides a shuttle to the port. If you’re looking for an affordable Fort Lauderdale hotel, but one that is reliable and highly rated by cruisers, keep reading. However, if you’re interested in adding an extra beach day before your cruise, by spending more for a beachfront hotel near Port Everglades, check out my post here. While Fort Lauderdale is more affordable than the Port Miami area, which is about 27 miles away, hotels here are more expensive than other cruise ports, such as Port Canaveral, so “affordable” is relative. book a cruise from port everglades Port Everglades is just minutes from FLL airport. (Top: Criss-Cross Tank Top) Affordable Hotels Near Port Everglades Comfort Suites Fort Lauderdale Airport and Cruise PortAddress: 302 N Federal Highway, Dania Beach, FL 33004Located less than three miles from both the FLL airport and Port Everglades cruise port, this hotel is conveniently located and provides free shuttle service from the airport, along with complimentary Wi-Fi and hot breakfast. This property, however, is a prime example of how cruisers sometimes get caught up in the aspect of a shuttle to port without realizing that this may not be the best option. In this case, the hotel contracts with a third-party cruise port shuttle provider to transport guests from the hotel to the port, which cruisers have to schedule for pickup at 9:00, 9:45, 10:45, 11:45, or 12:45, and costs $15 per person, which is more expensive than taking an Uber. While this hotel has a fantastic location and great prices, I wouldn’t advise cruisers to stay here because it provides a shuttle service. book Hyatt Place Fort Lauderdale Cruise PortAddress: 1851 SE 10th Ave., Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316This property is also less than three miles from both Fort Lauderdale and Port Everglades. I like this one because it’s just a few minutes walk from some great attractions to enjoy the evening before your cruise, including bars, restaurants, and Harbor Shops Mall. Guests enjoy complimentary continental breakfast and Wi-Fi, and the hotel offers a shuttle to the port for $9 per person, which is scheduled at check-in. Again, however, an Uber is more affordable and convenient. book Courtyard Fort Lauderdale Airport & Cruise PortAddress: 400 Gulf Stream Way, Dania Beach, FL 33004Like the other two properties, this hotel is located close to both the airport and port, along with the Tri-Rail Station, and receives high marks for friendly staff and cleanliness. Unlike the other properties, this hotel does not offer complimentary breakfast but features free Wi-Fi and an airport shuttle. As for the shuttle to the port, guests can schedule with a third-party provider for pickup at 10 am, 11 am, noon, or 1 pm, but this comes at $20 per person. In this case, an Uber for two people runs at half the cost and is significantly more convenient. book Getting to Port There are many hotels in Fort Lauderdale, but these consistently rank among the top choices for travelers cruising out of Port Everglades who are looking for an affordable, yet reliable, option. When it comes to getting to the port area (where these properties are generally located) from the Fort Lauderdale airport, there are four main options. To view these options, and see the pricing for each of them, check out my Port Everglades post. To get from Fort Lauderdale airport area, where these properties are, to Port Everglades, private transfer service through Get Transfer starts at $31 for up to three people, $56 for a van that fits up to 8 people, and $64 for a minivan that accommodates up to 16 passengers. Comparatively, an Uber for up to four people costs around $10-15, plus tip. Book a transfer Things to do in Fort Lauderdale

Best Cruise Tips
Caribbean, Key West, United States

Navigating the Key West Cruise Port: Golf Carts, Activities & More

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Port of Key West Key West is a rare U.S. domestic cruise port in some Caribbean itineraries. It may not exist as a stop for much longer, as it’s generally unpopular with the locals who continue efforts to shut down cruise ships from docking at Port of Key West in Florida. For cruisers who are fortunate to enjoy this stop still while it is an option, though, there are many fantastic things to do at the Key West cruise port. Many cruise ports offer great beach day opportunities. While that’s certainly an option here, this is one where I recommend cruisers enjoy the great history and cultural experiences that the port has to offer. Here are my recommendations for the top things to do in Key West, all of which can be booked independently: Key West Cruise Port Ship Schedule The Key West cruise port schedule is located here. Exploring Key West Other Things to do in Key West Clothes featured in photos: Ribbed Sleeveless Tank Dress in Green, Wrangler Stretch Denim Jacket, and Orange Slice Crossbody Purse

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