The big ships are back in Fort Lauderdale for the 2026/2027 Caribbean season, and that means it’s time to start planning. If you’re sailing out of Port Everglades this winter, here’s my best advice: get here the day before. A delayed flight or a backup on I-95 shouldn’t be the reason you watch your ship sail away from the dock.
The good news is that Port Everglades is one of the easiest cruise ports to stay near. The airport’s only a few minutes away, and the 17th Street area right outside the port gates is packed with hotels, restaurants, and a few places that’ll even drive you to the terminal. Here are the spots I’d look at first.
Quick Picks
Shuttle details change often, so confirm with the hotel before you book.
The Hotels I’d Stay In
1. Hyatt Place Fort Lauderdale Cruise Port
If you just want a clean room, a decent breakfast, and an easy ride to the ship, this is the one. It’s built for cruisers. The hotel runs a paid shuttle to the terminals on several runs each morning, last reported at about $9 per person, so you don’t have to wrestle with rideshare apps on embarkation day.
2. Embassy Suites Fort Lauderdale 17th Street
Traveling with kids? You’ll love having a separate living room so everyone isn’t stacked on top of each other the night before. Breakfast is included and there’s an evening reception, which takes care of a meal and a drink. The port shuttle fills up fast, so ask the front desk to hold seats when you check in.
3. Renaissance Fort Lauderdale Cruise Port
You won’t find many hotels closer to the terminals than this one. It sits right on 17th Street, about half a mile from the port, so even a taxi or rideshare is a quick, cheap trip. It’s also a nice spot to grab dinner nearby and still be in bed early.
4. Pier Sixty-Six
Want to start the vacation a day early? This is the splurge pick. The iconic tower reopened after a huge renovation, and it’s right on the Intracoastal with a marina, pools, and great restaurants. It’s about a mile from the port, so plan on a short ride to the ship.
5. Hilton Fort Lauderdale Marina
This one’s a nice middle ground. You get the waterfront setting and a big pool without resort pricing, and you’re only a couple of minutes from the port gates. Watching the yachts go by with a drink in hand is a pretty good way to spend the night before.
6. Rodeway Inn & Suites
If the budget’s going toward excursions and drink packages, this is a simple, no frills option. It’s not fancy, but it’s been reported to run a free daily shuttle to the port around 10 a.m. Reserve your seat at the front desk when you check in.
Tips for the Night Before
- Flying in? Fort Lauderdale’s airport is only a couple of miles from the port, so any of these hotels is a short ride after you land.
- Ask about the shuttle at check-in. Times, prices, and seat limits change a lot, and most hotels want you to sign up the night before.
- Driving down? Some hotels offer park and cruise packages that let you leave your car for the week. Compare that with parking at the port’s own garages before you book.
- Don’t rush to the terminal. Check your boarding time in the cruise line’s app. Showing up hours early usually just means waiting in line.
- Keep your documents in your carry on. Your bags may be gone with the porters before you know it.
