Florida is the undispited gateway to the Bahamas and the Caribbean. On any given day, ships are sailing from six homeports: Port Canaveral (Orlando), Port Tampa Bay (Tampa), Port of Palm Beach (West Palm Beach), Port Everglades (Fort Lauderdale), PortMiami (Miami), and JAXPORT (Jacksonville). Five of these – Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Canaveral, Jacksonville, and Tampa – see the major cruise lines year-round or seasonally. Jacksonville and Palm Beach are the “boutique ports,” with Jacksonville offering Carnival’s short Bahamas sailings and Palm Beach focused on quick getaways on the Margaritaville at Sea Paradise.
What makes Florida special isn’t just the number of ships—it’s the flexibility. You can mix theme parks with a cruise, try two different cruise lines back-to-back, or even stitch together a “rail-and-sail” vacation using the Brightline train between Orlando and South Florida. In this article, I’ll cover what lines sail from each port, what’s nearby, and practical ways to get there (from someone who lives here!), plus step-by-step tips for doing side-to-side (S2S) and back-to-back (B2B) cruises like a pro.
PortMiami (Miami)
If cruising had a capital city, this would be it. PortMiami’s views, constant ship traffic, and shiny new terminals, set the stage for your vacation. If you love choice – size of ship, brand, itinerary length – Miami’s your port-of-choice.
Why you’ll love it:
- Selection: From budget-friendly mid-size and mega-ships to smaller premium and luxury vessels, there’s usually a ship that fits your style, wallet, and dates.
- Pre/post fun: South Beach, Brickell, Wynwood, Little Havana – Miami is perfect for a night or two of restaurants and beach time.
- Transit perks: With an international airport and the Brightline station downtown, Miami is easy to reach and easy to connect from.
Insider tips:
- Hotel strategy: If your ship departs on a Saturday/Sunday, expect higher rates near the port and in South Beach. Downtown/Brickell often have lower rates while keeping the convenience of being close to port.
- Embarkation day: Leave more buffer than you think. Miami traffic can be wild; plan your ride to arrive in the middle of your boarding window, not at the very start or end to have a leg-up on traffic. Most cruisers tend to arrive first thing causing huge delays, plus PortMiami’s infrastructure is not nearly enough to handle the influx of vehicles heading to the terminals on embarkation day.
- S2S made easy: Miami ↔ Fort Lauderdale is the easiest same-day side-to-side thanks to short rideshares and the frequent Brightline trains between the two downtowns. Plus, Uber/Lyft is easy to grab right outside your terminal.
Port Everglades (Fort Lauderdale)
Calm, beachy, efficient and far less hectic and maddening than PortMiami. Port Everglades is just minutes from Fort Lauderdale–Hollywood International Airport and not far from the beach. It’s a favorite for those who want a low-stress start and an easy finish to their cruise. In fact, Port Everglades is my favorite of the Florida ports to sail from.
Why you’ll love it:
- Close airport: Getting from the plane to your ship is faster here than anywhere else in Florida.
- Beach time: There are tons of hotels along the beach and Intracoastal. A one-night pre-cruise here is something I always recommend.
- Lineup: The port has a year-round presence from Royal Caribbean and Celebrity with seasonal service by Princess and Holland America, and many premium/luxury ships call Port Everglades home or make frequent calls.
Insider tips:
- Early flights home: If you’re sailing back into Fort Lauderdale, early flights are more realistic because the airport is so close—but always build in a cushion.
- Hotel pick: For a quick overnight, look near 17th Street Causeway or the beach. Many hotels here are used to cruise guests and offer helpful staff, luggage storage, early breakfasts, and even shuttle service to the port.
- S2S made easy: Like PortMiami, a Port Everglades ↔ Miami side to side is easy. Grab an Uber/Lyft or Brightline adds a traffic-proof option if you prefer rail.
Port Canaveral (Orlando)
While not near Orlando, Port Canaveral is close enough for people to call this the “Orlando port.” Being around an hour away from the vacation capital of the world, this port pairs perfectly with a few days a pre- or post-cruise visit to Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, SeaWorld, or Kennedy Space Center. Plus, nearby Cocoa Beach has that laid-back old school surf town feel.
Why you’ll love it:
- Ship variety: From Disney’s magical cruise ships to the newest giants from Royal Caribbean and mainstream options from Carnival, MSC, and Norwegian, you’ll find something for everyone.
- Parks + cruise combo: Do Disney/Universal/SeaWorld before or after your sailing.
- Space nerd bonus: Rocket launch? If the timing cooperates, it’s pure magic to watch from the beach or jetty park.
Insider tips:
- Airport reality check: Orlando International Airport (MCO) has the most flights, but it’s still a 50 to 60 minute drive to the port. Book reputable shuttles or car services – especially for larger families or lots of luggage.
- Brightline note: The train is amazing for connecting Orlando to South Florida, but it doesn’t go to the port. You’ll always need a road transfer for the last leg.
- Overnight trick: If you don’t want to gamble with traffic, stay in Cocoa Beach the night before. Wake up, have coffee with an ocean view, and head to the terminal relaxed.
Port Tampa Bay (Tampa)
Tampa is known for being an easygoing Gulf Coast gateway with walkable pre-cruise fun. The Channelside/Sparkman Wharf area has food halls, harbor views, and The Florida Aquarium is just steps from Port Tampa Bay‘s terminals.
Why you’ll love it:
- Western Caribbean access: Convenient sailings to Cozumel, Costa Maya, and Grand Cayman are common. If you’re looking for a Bahamas or Eastern Caribbean itinerary, you’ll have to hit up one of the other Florida ports.
- Small ship, clasic vibes: The Sunshine Skyway Bridge that cruise ships must pass under restricts many of the newer ships from homeporting in Tampa as they are simply too large to pass under it.. This means you’ll find much smaller ships sailing from here aka: less passengers! Although, many of the ships are older, and lack many of the far-out features you’ll find on ships sailing from the east coast of the state.
- Airport proximity: Tampa International Airport is known for smooth operations and short drives to the port.
- Pre/post cruise haunts: Ybor City’s historic charm, rooftop bars, and Cuban sandwiches make for great exploration. Plus, you can get to the Orlando theme parks in about 90 minutes to two hours (depending on traffic).
Insider tips:
- Connecting from other ports: There’s no Brightline to Tampa yet. If you’re coupling Tampa with Miami, Fort Lauderdale, or Orlando, plan on a drive (or a short flight) and consider an overnight.
- Parking & drop-offs: On busy weekends (sports, concerts), downtown can be very busy – arrive a little earlier to avoid event traffic.
Jacksonville (JAXPORT)
Jacksonville’s cruise port has a single terminal with straightforward parking and quick check-in—perfect if you want a no-fuss Bahamas escape. Carnival runs 4–5 night Bahamas itineraries most of the year (think Princess Cays, Bimini/Nassau/Half Moon Cay depending on the schedule), typically on Carnival Elation.
Why you’ll love it:
- Fast start to vacation: Small-port ease means less terminal time and more “I’m-on-vacation” time.
- Budget-friendly short sails: Great for a quick reset or a first-timer test run without big travel days.
- Easy airport access: Jacksonville International Airport is less than 15 minutes by taxi/rideshare in light traffic.
Insider tips:
- The terminal sits in North Jacksonville on the St. Johns River. Expect an easy in/out experience, with on-site, fenced, monitored parking literally steps from the building.
- Brightline does not serve Jacksonville. (It currently runs Orlando ↔ South Florida and is eyeing other in-state expansions, but not JAX.) Plan on car, taxi, or short flights if you’re pairing Jacksonville with South Florida ports.
Port of Palm Beach (West Palm Beach / Riviera Beach)
If you want a quick Bahamas reset without the hassle of a mega-port, the Port of Palm Beach is your spot. But, you’re options are limited. Well, very limited, as the only cruise ship sailing from this port is the Margaritaville at Sea Paradise, one of the oldest ships afloat.
Why you’ll love it:
- Speedy process: With only one cruise ship calling this port home, parking, check-in, and boarding are straightforward.
- Location: Minutes from Palm Beach and West Palm’s dining/shopping areas as well as the Palm Beach International Airport.
- Easy add-on: Tie a short sailing to a South Florida vacation without the Miami hustle.
Insider tips:
- Town hopping: Brightline to/from West Palm Beach is handy. It’s a short rideshare from the station to the cruise terminal in Riviera Beach.
- Stay the night: Consider a night in Palm Beach or downtown West Palm. You’ll find great dining, walkable areas, people watching, and stress-free morning transfers.
Getting There (Airports, Driving, and Brightline Made Simple)
Airports → Ports at a glance:
- MIA → PortMiami: A quick city hop; budget extra time if your boarding window is late morning (Miami traffic, ya know!).
- FLL → Port Everglades: One of the shortest airport-to-port rides in cruising – still add buffer for baggage and ride queues.
- MCO → Port Canaveral: About an hour by road; shuttles and private vans are perfect if you’ve got kids and carry-ons.
- TPA → Port Tampa Bay: Smooth drive in most conditions; rideshares are plentiful.
- JAX → JAXPORT: Less than 15 minutes by taxi/rideshare in light traffic.
- PBI → Port of Palm Beach: Easy in, easy out; pack your patience during winter high season.
Brightline 101 for cruisers:
- Where it runs: Orlando (MCO) to Miami with stops in West Palm Beach, Boca Raton, Fort Lauderdale, and Aventura.
- Why it’s great: You can fly into Orlando for parks, then train to South Florida for your cruise (or vice versa). Trains are frequent, seats are comfy, and stations are downtown – close to rideshares.
- Know the limits: The train doesn’t serve Tampa or Jacksonville, and it doesn’t go to Port Canaveral. You’ll still book a road transfer between MCO and the Canaveral terminals.
Road transfers that work well:
- Private car/SUV: Best for families or groups wanting door-to-door with no schlepping.
- Hotel shuttles: Some airport/port-area hotels offer free shuttles or you can buy transfers.
- Rental car (one-way): Surprisingly cost-effective between Tampa ↔ Canaveral or Orlando ↔ Tampa; drop near the port and use a free shuttle from the rental lot to your terminal if offered.
Back-to-Back vs. Side-to-Side
Back-to-Back (B2B): Two (or more) cruises on the same ship. On turnaround morning, you’ll usually meet a crew member, briefly step off to clear customs, and hop right back on. Keep the same cabin and you don’t even unpack,
Side-to-Side (S2S): Two cruises on different ships and/or different ports. This is for those who try a different line, a new ship class, or a fresh itinerary on the same vacation. You’ll handle your own transfer between ships – easy between Miami/Fort Lauderdale/West Palm, more advanced between Tampa/Canaveral.
For more on Back-to-Back and Side-to-Side cruises, be sure to check out my in-depth article here.
Back-to-Back Cruises vs. Side-to-Side Cruises: What’s the Difference?
How to Pull Off Side-to-Side Between Florida Ports
Miami ↔ Fort Lauderdale:
- Same-day friendly. Plan a mid-morning departure from Ship A, rideshare or Brightline to the other city, and arrive at Ship B’s terminal inside your boarding window.
- Packing smart: Carry-on bags only make this a breeze. If you check luggage, keep toiletries and meds in a personal item just in case.
Miami/Fort Lauderdale ↔ West Palm Beach:
- Use Brightline. It’s frequent and fast, with short rideshares to both PortMiami/Port Everglades and the Port of Palm Beach.
- Timing: Aim for a mid-morning train and arrive during the sweet spot of boarding (when lines are thinnest).
South Florida ↔ Port Canaveral (Orlando):
- Two-segment move. Take Brightline to Orlando, then a pre-booked shuttle or private car to Canaveral.
- Pro move: Overnight near MCO or Cocoa Beach so you’re not stressing on transfer day.
Orlando (Canaveral) ↔ Tampa:
- Drive 2 – 3 hours. A one-way rental car is flexible and often cheaper than private transfers. Traffic once you hit Orlando can be brutal, so make sure you budget time wisely.
- Same-day or overnight? Same-day is possible with early disembark and a later boarding window, but an overnight removes the stress. Again, Orlando traffic is not your friend.
South Florida ↔ Tampa:
-
No rail. Either drive (often 4–5 hours) or take a short flight. If you drive, start early to beat I-75/I-4 traffic.
Jacksonville ↔ Other Florida Ports
- JAX ↔ Port Canaveral (Orlando): About 2.5 – 3 hours by car. A one-way rental is easiest if you’re hopping between cruises.
- JAX ↔ Tampa: Roughly 3 – 3.5 hours’ drive; doable same day if your next boarding time is in the afternoon.
- JAX ↔ Miami/Fort Lauderdale: A solid 5+ hours by car. If you’re set on pairing these, either fly or plan to overnight.
- JAX ↔ Palm Beach: Similar to Miami/FLL – about 4.5 – 5 hours driving. Safer with a hotel night unless you’re comfortable with long road trips.
Palm Beach ↔ Canaveral or Tampa:
- To Canaveral: Brightline to Orlando, then a shuttle/car to the port.
- To Tampa: Consider a rental car or a short flight; build in a cushion if you’re attempting to do this in one day.
Sample Itineraries
Theme Parks + Cruise (Orlando → Miami):
Fly into Orlando, hit the parks for two days, catch Brightline to Miami, rideshare to PortMiami, cruise. On the return, take the train back to Orlando for your flight home.
Two Ports, One Trip (Fort Lauderdale → Miami):
Disembark at Port Everglades, rideshare to the Brightline station, take the train 30 minutes to Miami, rideshare to PortMiami, board the afternoon sailing. Carry-on only makes it smooth.
Gulf then Atlantic (Tampa → Canaveral):
Sail from Tampa first, pick up a one-way rental car after disembarkation, drive to Cocoa Beach, overnight, and board in Port Canaveral the next morning.
Extra Tips You’ll Thank Me For Later
- Pick by itinerary + flight price. If airfare to Miami is high, check Fort Lauderdale or even West Palm Beach; if you’re set on parks, choose Canaveral and fly into Orlando. Tampa’s great for Western Caribbean; Palm Beach is perfect for a quick Bahamas trip.
- Boarding window = your friend. Aim for the middle of your assigned time – lines are shorter and you’re not waiting in the terminal. Being the first onboard is not always the best. Everyone wants to be first, and with that, boarding lines are long.
- Pack a “day bag.” For S2S, keep meds, chargers, swimsuits, and a change of clothes with you. If checked bags lag behind, your vacation doesn’t.
- Travel insurance: If you’re stringing together trains, cars, and multiple cruises, insurance is cheap peace of mind.
- Kids & groups: Private vans or one-way rentals can beat per-person shuttle pricing- and they keep the whole crew together.
With six ports, countless ships, and a rail line that ties the state together, Florida is a cruiser’s paradise. Keep your logistics simple, build in buffers, and you can come up with anything from a low-stress weekend to a multi-port, multi-line epic cruise vacation.