Stepping off a cruise ship in Port Everglades often comes with a bit of urgency. Maybe you’re heading straight into a shore excursion, returning to a hotel, catching a flight, or adding on a few days to enjoy the best of South Florida. No matter the plan, knowing how to get from the cruise port to either Fort Lauderdale or Miami makes your travel smoother and stress-free.
This guide is designed for both first-time cruisers and seasoned travelers who want clear, friendly advice—without the fluff. If this stop is part of your cruise vacation, or you’re planning transportation while making a cruise booking, here’s the local-focused breakdown that helps you move like someone who knows the area well.
To keep things easy to read, imagine each section as a “quick snapshot” of what you can expect the moment the terminal doors open and you’re ready to roll.
Understanding Where You Are: Port Everglades Basics
Port Everglades sits minutes from downtown Fort Lauderdale and about 30–45 minutes from Miami. Unlike some Caribbean ports that place you in the middle of town, Port Everglades is more of a transportation-oriented hub than an attraction by itself.
There are a few key things to know before deciding your transportation route:
- You cannot walk out of the port.
- Rideshares and taxis pick up in designated areas only.
- Each terminal has its own flow, but the process is generally fast.
- Disembarkation mornings get very busy, and delays are normal.
Keeping this in mind helps you plan with realistic timing.
Getting to Fort Lauderdale from Port Everglades
Reaching Fort Lauderdale from the cruise terminal is refreshingly simple. Almost every transport option is beginner-friendly and relatively quick.
Taxi Options
Taxis wait directly outside each terminal and operate with fixed city-regulated rates. In most cases, the ride to:
- Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL): around 10 minutes
- Downtown Fort Lauderdale or Las Olas: around 10–15 minutes
- Fort Lauderdale Beach hotels: around 15 minutes
Taxis are great for anyone who wants zero apps and zero waiting.
Rideshares: Uber & Lyft
Both Uber and Lyft operate throughout Port Everglades. Prices vary depending on demand, but they’re typically cheaper than taxis when it’s not peak disembarkation time.
A few notes to make pickup smoother:
- Your driver cannot enter the port without your location pinned to a specific terminal.
- Cell service is strong, but WiFi from the ship may cut off after disembarkation—open your app early.
Rideshare is perfect if you like predictable pricing.
Private Car Services
Many cruise travelers enjoy starting or ending their trip with a bit more comfort. Private car companies operate sedans, SUVs, and even larger shuttles for families.
This is ideal if your cruise vacation includes heavy luggage, mobility concerns, or a hotel that’s not in the main Fort Lauderdale strip.
Shared Shuttles
Hotels near the airport and beach frequently run shuttles to/from Port Everglades. They’re usually not free, but they’re affordable and easy.
Shuttles also work well for cruisers traveling together and looking to keep costs low without juggling multiple Ubers.
Getting to Miami from Port Everglades
Miami is far more spread out than Fort Lauderdale, so your experience depends heavily on where you’re going—Miami International Airport (MIA), Miami Beach, Wynwood, Brickell, or the Miami cruise terminals. The transportation options are still straightforward, though.
Uber & Lyft: The Most Popular Choice
This is the simplest option for most travelers. You’ll use the same designated pickup zones, but the ride takes longer.
Average travel times (without weekday rush-hour traffic):
- Miami International Airport: 35–45 minutes
- Downtown Miami / Brickell: 40–50 minutes
- Miami Beach: 45–60 minutes
Expect higher prices during peak cruise mornings.
Private Transfer to Miami
Private car services are the easiest option for those who like guaranteed rates. You can book a sedan, SUV, or even a luxury vehicle before your cruise booking is finalized, and the company will track your ship’s arrival.
This is especially useful if:
- You’re flying out of MIA
- Your group has several pieces of luggage
- You want zero waiting time after disembarkation
Shuttle Vans to Miami
Group shuttles run between both Port Everglades and Miami’s major airports. They’re more affordable than a private car and cheaper than a rideshare surge-priced ride.
Travel time is slower because shuttles often stop at several hotels or terminals along the way.
Connecting via Brightline Train
This is one of the most enjoyable ways to travel in South Florida—especially for someone adding adventure to their cruise vacation.
Brightline offers a fast train from Fort Lauderdale to Miami with comfortable seating, WiFi, and reliable schedules.
How to use it:
- Take a short Uber or taxi from Port Everglades to the Brightline Fort Lauderdale station.
- Ride 30 minutes to Brightline MiamiCentral station.
- From the Miami station, connect by Uber, Lyft, or taxi to your final destination.
For cruisers looking for a modern option, this is an easy favorite.
Transportation Options to Keep in Mind
Here is a simple list cruisers often find helpful:
- Taxi – Easy, no apps needed, higher fixed cost
- Uber / Lyft – Most flexible, great pricing outside peak hours
- Private Car Services – Best for groups, heavy luggage, and guaranteed pickup
- Hotel Shuttles – Affordable if your hotel offers them
- Shared Van Shuttles – Budget-friendly with longer travel time
- Brightline Train – Comfortable and efficient for Fort Lauderdale–Miami transfers
Tips for a Smooth Departure from Port Everglades
To make your morning easier, here are some expert insights:
Keep your phone ready.
Once your cruise ship WiFi disconnects, you’ll rely on your carrier or offline maps. Download what you need the night before.
Expect peak-time congestion.
Most cruisers try to leave the port between 8–10 a.m. If you’re flexible, waiting until 10:30 a.m. saves time and money.
If flying, give yourself a buffer.
Even though FLL is close, lines at TSA move slowly on weekends. Miami Airport requires more time by default.
Check if your ride service includes child seats.
Not all do, so plan ahead if traveling with kids.
Know your terminal number.
Your ride can’t find you without it.
Should You Choose Fort Lauderdale or Miami After Your Cruise?
If your shore excursion ends early and you’re deciding which city to explore, the vibe of each area may influence your decision:
- Fort Lauderdale feels more relaxed, beachy, and walkable.
- Miami is energetic, stylish, and ideal for nightlife or art districts.
Both are great add-ons to a cruise vacation—but Fort Lauderdale is more convenient if time is tight.
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Best Transportation Option
Port Everglades is one of the easiest cruise ports in the U.S. to navigate, and you have plenty of ways to reach both Fort Lauderdale and Miami. Whether you want app-based convenience, shuttle simplicity, or a private car’s comfort, your transportation is simple as long as you plan ahead.
Customize your choice around what matters most—price, timing, convenience, or comfort—and your day after disembarking will feel just as smooth as your days at sea.