Port of Everglades 2026 Travel Guide

Key Highlights

• Port Everglades is a top cruise port in Fort Lauderdale. Many cruise passengers use it every year.

• It is in Broward County and is a main spot for both cruise trips and trade with other countries.

• The port has many modern cruise terminals, and some are just for certain big cruise lines.

• It is a homeport for top cruise lines like Royal Caribbean, Carnival Corporation, and Disney Cruise Line.

• It’s easy to get to the port because it is close to the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport.

• You will find a lot of good services for passengers, like parking, places to eat, and Wi-Fi, so you can have a smooth travel experience.

Introduction

Welcome to your main guide for sailing from Port Everglades in 2026. You will find Port Everglades right in Fort Lauderdale. This busy cruise port is the start for many great trips to the Caribbean and other places. It does not matter if this is your first time to get on a cruise ship or if you have done this before. A big cruise port can be hard to get around. So, this guide is here to help you. It is made to make your travel experience smooth. You will get info about different cruise lines, the port’s terminals, parking spots, and what to do close by to make sure you leave for your vacation from Lauderdale with no stress and lots of excitement. Enjoy your time in the Everglades and happy travels!

Overview of Port Everglades

Port Everglades is one of the busiest cruise ports you will find in the world. You can see that this place is always active with lots of people coming and going in South Florida. Broward County owns this port, and it is more than just a simple spot to get on your cruise ship. It is also a big center for international trade and helps with petroleum movement. The Port Everglades Department is an enterprise fund for the county. This means they run things without using money from local property taxes.

You will find Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale. Its spot in the city makes it easy for travelers and a top pick for millions each year. The way this place works and grows shows why it matters so much for the economy in south Florida. Next, we will take a closer look at how the port has changed over time and where exactly it sits in the area.

History and Significance of the Port

The story of Port Everglades is about a big dream and smart building ideas. The talk about a deep-water port started back in 1911 because people wanted a way to ship farm goods. Work began with digging out a body of water called Lake Mabel. It took many years to get things ready. Then, on February 22, 1928, the port opened. That day, they used explosives to break a rock wall that blocked the way to the Atlantic Ocean. This moment was so important that President Calvin Coolidge planned to set off the explosion from the White House.

The name “Port Everglades” came from a contest. People picked it because it showed how the port led to the big farmlands in the Everglades. As time went on, Port Everglades turned into a key spot for the military during World War II. After that, it started to handle more petroleum and cargo that was packed in containers called TEUs.

Now, the port is still growing, and the us army corps of engineers is making sure the work gets done. Port Everglades stands as one of the busiest cruise ports on earth. It serves millions of travelers and moves a lot of cargo every year.

Where Port Everglades Is Located in Fort Lauderdale

Port Everglades sits in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, at 1850 Eller Drive, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316. This spot is great because it is close to big highways and airports. It is not hard to get to the port, no matter if you are coming from close by or far away. The area covers land that is in Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood, and Dania Beach.

If you are driving, you will find the port easy to reach by using roads like I-595, I-95, or Florida’s Turnpike. Most cruise passengers enter by Eller Drive. This road goes right to the port’s main security gate, and there are clear signs showing where to go for each cruise terminal.

Because of where it is, many people see this port as a good choice instead of the port of Miami. Miami sits about 30 miles south. Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) is very close to the port, too. If you fly into FLL for your cruise trip, you will not have to travel far. It makes things simple and quick for all cruise passengers in Fort Lauderdale.

Main Cruise Terminals at Port Everglades

Port Everglades has many modern cruise terminals. These are made to quickly move thousands of people in and out. You will find these terminals in two main areas at the port. The areas are called Northport and Midport. Each terminal has what you need to make getting on and off your ship fast and easy for your cruise vacation.

Some port everglades terminals are only for certain cruise lines. Other terminals are shared by two or more cruise lines. This means some areas give you a cruise line vibe the moment you step in. Below, you will see more about what makes the Northport and Midport terminals special. This way, you know where to go when you get to Port Everglades on your trip day.

Northport Terminals and Major Features

The Northport area of Port Everglades has some of the newest and most modern cruise terminals. These terminals can handle the biggest and latest cruise ships. It is close to the Broward County Convention Center, which makes it easy for cruise passengers who come from the north part of the city to get there.

Northport has a few terminals, such as Terminal 2 and Terminal 4, that have been fixed up recently. Each one is made for certain cruise lines. For example, Disney Cruise Line uses Terminal 4. This spot has a fun Finding Nemo theme inside that many families enjoy. Terminal 2 is a new building used mostly by Carnival Corporation’s Princess Cruises.

Here are some main points about the Northport terminals:

• Terminal 2: This is a new, tech-ready terminal for Princess Cruises. It has things to make the cruise guests have a good time.

• Terminal 4: This one is just for Disney Cruise Line at Port Everglades. It gives families a special way to start their trip.

All these terminals in Port Everglades are made to help make boarding fast and simple. The layout is good and waiting areas are comfortable for all cruise guests.

Midport Terminals and State-of-the-Art Facilities

The Midport area of Port Everglades is another critical hub for cruise operations, featuring several terminals that serve some of the world’s largest cruise lines. These terminals are known for their state-of-the-art facilities and capacity to handle a high volume of cruise guests with ease. Midport terminals are centrally located within the port, providing straightforward access to parking garages and passenger drop-off zones.

One of the standout facilities in this area is Terminal 18, which was built to accommodate Royal Caribbean’s groundbreaking Oasis-class ships. Terminal 25 is another highlight, having been completely redesigned for Celebrity Cruises to create a unique, brand-specific experience. These terminals offer enhanced amenities and efficient layouts to ensure a comfortable start to your journey.

Here is a quick look at some key Midport terminals and their primary cruise line partners:

Terminal	Primary Cruise Line(s)
Terminal 18	Royal Caribbean Group
Terminal 21	Baleària / Carnival Corporation
Terminal 25	Royal Caribbean Group (Celebrity)
Terminal 26	Carnival Corporation
Terminal 29	Royal Caribbean / Carnival

Cruise Lines Sailing from Port Everglades

Port Everglades is known as a top spot for many great cruise lines. It is easy to find both fun trips for families and high-end voyages when you leave from fort lauderdale. The choices are huge and offer a lot to anyone who wants to explore florida by ship. This port stands well beside other big places in florida, like miami and tampa, and has some of the biggest and newest ships that people can get on.

If you have a favorite cruise lines or want to do something different, you will find what you want at port everglades. So, let’s look at who comes to this lauderdale port and what kinds of exciting itineraries are out there for you to pick during your 2026 voyages.

Top Cruise Line Partners and Popular Itineraries

Port Everglades is a big port in Florida for cruise lines. Top companies, like Royal Caribbean and Carnival Corporation, use this port all the time. Disney Cruise Line also sails from Port Everglades as its second home in Florida, which is great for families who want a fun trip.

Many cruise lines offer trips from Port Everglades. Most of these cruises go to the sunny islands of the Caribbean. You can pick a short weekend trip to the Bahamas or a longer trip to the Eastern, Western, or Southern Caribbean. Big ships like Harmony of the Seas and Oasis of the Seas have also started their trips here.

There are many kinds of trips, or itineraries, that start at Port Everglades:

• Short cruises to the Bahamas, with stops at private islands.

• 7-night trips to the Eastern Caribbean with stops at places like St. Maarten and Puerto Rico.

• Trips to the Western Caribbean that go to Mexico, Jamaica, and Grand Cayman.

• Longer trips to the Southern Caribbean, visiting islands such as Aruba and Curacao.

New Ships and Seasonal Deployments for 2026

Looking at what is coming in 2026, Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale will get some new ships that people can be excited about. These cruise lines, like Royal Caribbean, usually bring their newest ships to the port during the main travel season, which is from November to April. Many people look out for big news when a cruise line brings out a new ship to sail out of Lauderdale.

If you want to plan your 2026 trip, make sure you check the exact itineraries and departure dates for the new voyages. These ships can have some of the best new amenities, fun entertainment, and places to eat. That will help make your journey better and give you a good time you want to remember. With seasonal deployments, you might see that some ships only sail from Port Everglades for a short time. That means there are some special itineraries you can’t get any other time in the year.

For the latest updates, it’s smart to go to the websites for the cruise lines, like Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, Princess Cruises, and Disney Cruise Line. There, you will find all the information you need about ships, departure dates, places to go, and more for trips starting in 2026 from Port Everglades.

Getting to Port Everglades

Getting to Port Everglades is easy because of its great spot in the Fort Lauderdale area. If you drive or fly in, you will find that it is well connected. The port is only a few miles from Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL). It is also close to Miami because it is about 30 miles north of Miami International Airport (MIA).

Main highways like I-595, I-95, and Florida’s Turnpike take you right to the port entrance. Below you will find more details about driving directions, ways to use public transportation, and parking. This information will help you get to your cruise at Port Everglades in Lauderdale, Florida, without any trouble and on time.

Driving Directions and Public Transportation Tips

Getting to Port Everglades by car is easy. The main entrance for cruise passengers is on Eller Drive. When you get inside the port, you will see signs that show you where to go for your ship’s terminal. For your maps or GPS, use this address: 1850 Eller Dr, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316.

Here are simple directions from some key places:

• From Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL): Follow the signs to I-595 East and Port Everglades. Go on I-595 East until you reach the last exit. This exit goes right to the Port Everglades security entrance.

• From Miami International Airport (MIA): Get on I-95 North, then take I-595 East. Stay on I-595 until it ends, and then follow the signs to Port Everglades.

• From the North or South using I-95: Take Exit 24 for I-595 East. Follow I-595 to the end and head right into the port.

There aren’t many public transport options, but lots of hotels near Port Everglades and Fort Lauderdale offer shuttle services to the cruise terminal. You can also use ride-share options like Uber or Lyft to get from the airport or your hotel to the terminal at Port Everglades.

Parking Options and Accessibility Services

Port Everglades gives you easy and safe Port Everglades cruise parking if you drive your own car to the terminal. The port has two big parking garages, called the Heron Garage and the Palm Garage. These parking garages take care of many cruise terminals. You will park in a covered and well-lit spot. It is only a short walk or a fast free shuttle service ride to reach your ship from there.

You will pay for parking each day, and the price is a bit more if you have a big vehicle. First, drop your luggage with the porters at your cruise terminal. Then, go to the parking garage. If you need to know about size limits for your car, you can call and ask the parking garage staff.

If you or anyone in your group needs help, Port Everglades offers special services. Here are some highlights:

• Parking: Both the Northport and Midport parking garages have lots of marked spaces for accessible parking.

• Shuttles: You get a free shuttle service that takes you from the parking garages to the cruise terminal.

• Terminal Accessibility: The terminals at Port Everglades are easy to move around in. They have ramps and elevators for guests who have trouble walking.

If you travel from Port Everglades, these options make your experience with your luggage and parking easy and smooth.

Passenger Services and Amenities

To help you start your trip in a good way, Port Everglades has many services and things to make you feel at home in its cruise terminals. At the port, before you get on your ship, you need to have your passport with you. You will also need your cruise documents for check-in. The terminals at Port Everglades are set up so you can handle your luggage fast and get through security in less time for all cruise passengers.

There are fast security checks and lounges where people can sit and relax before they get on the cruise. Port Everglades is ready to help with what today’s travelers want. In the next part, we talk about the check-in steps and the amenities that are there for you at Everglades.

Check-In Processes and Security Procedures

A smooth start at Port Everglades is important if you want a calm day when you get on your ship. When you get to your cruise terminal, the first thing you need to do is take care of your luggage. You can drop your large bags with the porters outside the terminal doors. Be sure to put the cruise line’s tags on your luggage so people know where it goes.

Next, you will go inside the terminal to walk through the security checkpoint. At this spot, you and your carry-on bags will be checked. You have to show your cruise documents and your government ID. This part works like airport security and is to keep everyone safe, so sometimes there are hold-ups, especially when a lot of people come at the same time.

After you finish at security, you go to the cruise line’s check-in counter or sometimes the passport control area. Here, a staff member will look at your cruise documents, check your passport, and give you a ship key card. When you are done, you will go to the next spot where everyone waits until it is time to walk onto your ship.

Food, Wi-Fi, and Passenger Lounge Facilities

When you wait to get on your ship, Port Everglades gives you things to help you stay comfortable. The cruise terminal halls have the latest things to help make it a better time for all cruise guests. While each terminal can be a bit different, you will usually find the main things you need to feel good before your trip starts.

Most terminals in Port Everglades give you big lounges with lots of seats. You can sit down and rest after you finish your check-in and go through security. Some of the new cruise terminals, like the ones for Celebrity and Disney, have special lounge areas. These have their own style and better seating for guests.

These are some of the main amenities you will find at a Port Everglades cruise terminal:

• Wi-Fi: There is free Wi-Fi in every cruise terminal, so you can keep in touch and take care of any last-minute needs.

• Food and Drink: You will see vending machines that offer snacks and drinks in these terminals.

• Restrooms: Every cruise terminal has clean restrooms that are easy to get to so you have no trouble when you need to use one.

Visitor Experiences Around Port Everglades

You don’t have to wait until you get on the ship to start your vacation. There is a lot to see and do around Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale. The area has nice beaches and many spots where people can learn about art and culture. A lot of guests who take cruises here choose to come to Lauderdale a day or two early. This way, they get time to check out what the city has to offer. You will also find many hotels close to Port Everglades. The hotels have something for every budget and type of stay, so you can pick what works best for you.

In Fort Lauderdale, you can relax on the beach, take a walk in the gardens at the Bonnet House Museum, or go downtown to see a busy and lively part of the city. There are many things to do in the city that will make your time fun before you leave. Some cruise lines also plan fun trips before you get on your ship. These tours let you see the best parts of Fort Lauderdale and Everglades before your cruise even begins.

Shore Excursions, Nearby Hotels, and City Attractions

Staying in the Fort Lauderdale area before or after your cruise is a good plan. The city has a lot of things to do, and you will find many hotels close to Port Everglades. Many of these hotels give easy shuttle services straight to the cruise terminals. You can pick from nice resorts by the beach or cheaper places near the airport.

If you get more time, there are some must-see spots you should check out in Fort Lauderdale. You can ride a water taxi down the pretty Intracoastal Waterway. You could just relax on Fort Lauderdale Beach, too. Las Olas Boulevard is great for walking around, shopping, and having a good meal. For those who like nature and history, the Bonnet House Museum & Gardens is a calm and beautiful place to visit.

Many cruise passengers really like their stays in Lauderdale and often mention how close everything is and all the things you can do before getting on a ship. Some favorite activities include:

• Visiting the historic Bonnet House Museum & Gardens.

• Exploring the shops and restaurants on Las Olas Boulevard.

• Relaxing on Fort Lauderdale’s world-famous beaches.

• Taking a scenic boat ride on the city’s canals.

Conclusion

To sum up, the Port of Everglades is more than just a place where cruises start. It is a busy spot with lots of history and fun things to do. The new terminals and the different cruise lines mean people have many choices. You can see what is near the port or make use of the many amenities before you get on your ship. Your trip really begins the moment you arrive, not just when you set sail. The port has so much for you to enjoy. If you want a great time, it is a good idea to start planning your visit to Everglades now. You may make some memories that last for years.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Visit or Tour Port Everglades Without a Cruise?

Port Everglades has very strict rules about who can enter. The general public cannot just visit or take tours for fun. On the day you sail, only ticketed cruise passengers and people who are allowed by the port authority can go into the cruise terminals. The port authority also does not let people take public tours of its Everglades facilities.

How Do I Watch Live Webcams or Check Vessel Traffic at the Port?

You can find live webcams of Port Everglades on different websites that let you watch ships come in and go out. If you want to see official info on ship traffic and schedules, you should go to the Port Everglades website. It has new updates every day about what ships are in the cruise port. Look for these under the “Vessel Traffic” or “Shipping” section.

How Do Passengers Rate Their Experience at Port Everglades?

Most people say good things about Port Everglades. Many travelers like that the port is clean and runs well. They think the location is nice, since it is close to the airport. Some do talk about crowding when it is busy, but the travel experience at Everglades is still seen as good. Many enjoy the modern amenities and easy check-in. People who start their trip at Port Everglades usually speak highly of it.