cruise faqs

Are there restriction on what I can bring on my Cruise?

Yes, there is a list on of prohibited items from the U.S Coast Guard, which can be found on our Security page. Many cruise lines also have a list of prohibited items such as irons and blow dryers. Check with you individual cruise line for its list of prohibited items. 

what documentation will i need to cruise?

It depends upon where you are going. Contact your cruise line or the U.S. Department of Customs and Border Protection for required document information specific to your cruise vacation.

where is port everglades located?

Port Everglades is located in the heart of Broward County on the southeastern coast of the Florida peninsula. The Port is accessible by car, taxi, bus and rail. Proper Identification for those 18 and older, such as state issued driver's license or passport, is required and your vehicle may be subject to search.

Port Everglades has three entrances: 

• 17th Street Causeway, located at Eisenhower Boulevard
• State Road 84, located just off of US 1
• I-595 East

The Port is easily accessible from I-595, I-95, I-75, US 1 and the Florida Turnpike. Allow addition time for roadway construction on I-595 and the Port's Eller Drive entrance.

how far is the airport from the cruise ship terminal?

The main airport serving Port Everglades is Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, which is located less than two miles from the Port. Other airports serving the Port Everglades include Miami International Airport (27 miles south) and Palm Beach International Airport (50 miles north).

how much time should i allow for travel between the airport and cruise terminal?

Allow 45 minutes to one hour for the transfer process if you are flying into Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, which includes:

• claiming luggage at the Airport
• boarding transportation to the Port
• clearing the security checkpoint at the Port's entrance
• checking baggage curbside
• filling out forms and other documentation inside the cruise terminal

Time allotment for other airports:

• Miami International: two to three hours
• Palm Beach International: three to four hours

To expedite the process at the Port's security checkpoint have the following out and ready for review:

• All cruise documents
• Government-issued photo ID, such as a driver's license or passport, for all cruise guests 18 and older

what do i do with my luggage?

Your cruise line provided you with baggage tags. Be sure that all baggage has a tag attached with your name and cabin number. Porters will be available at the front of all cruise terminals to collect baggage, which will then be loaded aboard the ship and delivered to your cabin. If you do not have baggage tags, all porters have additional tags.

Do not put medication, valuables, liquids or fragile items in your checked baggage.

what should i keep with me?

Keep all cruise documents, photo identification and proof of citizenship with you. You will be asked to show the documents several times during the check in process. Do not put them in your checked baggage.

should we park first or go to straight to the terminal?

We recommend dropping off all luggage and passengers at the terminal before parking.

what are the boarding procedures?

Generally, you will be allowed to board three or more hours before the ship sails. Most cruise lines do not begin check in before 11 a.m. Keep in mind that you must be on the ship at least one hour before departure, and the gangway will be pulled thirty minutes before sailing.

Upon completion of check-in, you will receive a guest identification card. This card will:

• Serve as your identification on-board and will be used when embarking and disembarking the ship at ports on your itinerary
• Allow you to make on-board purchases

As you walk up the gangway, a member of the cruise staff will welcome you aboard. Your luggage will be delivered to your cabin shortly after it arrives at the ship. You carry nothing but your hand luggage.

is parking available at port everglades?

Yes, parking is available on Port property. Most of our lots and garages are just steps away from your terminal.

is the parking in a secure location?

Yes, all Port public garages and surface lots are:

• Well lit
• Security patrolled
• Provide disabled parking with unimpeded access to crosswalks and elevators

how can i pay for parking?

Payment can be made with cash or major credit card.

when do i pay for parking?

You will pay for parking after your cruise.

can i leave my vehicle in parking garage/lot after i complete my cruise?

All vehicles must leave the parking area once the debarkation activities are completed on the return morning of the cruise.

where do i find transportation when i return from my cruise?

Taxis, limos, buses and hotel transportation vehicles are located outside the cruise terminal.

is there anywhere at the port that i can leave my luggage after debarkation?

Due to security regulations, luggage cannot be left or stored at the Port after debarkation. You will need to take all items with you when you leave the area.

is there a lost and found department?

Lost items from the ship or cruise terminals are stored by the individual cruise lines, not Port Everglades. Please contact your cruise line for lost items inquires.

how can I get through the U.S. Customs reentry process quicker when I return from my cruise?

Global Entry allows expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travelers upon arrival back in the United States. Upon debarkation, signage will direct cruise guests who are Global Entry participants to the front of the line (not available in Cruise Terminals 18 and 25). LEARN MORE​

how secure is port everglades?

We take a multi-layer approach to security and work with a variety of local, state and federal law enforcement agencies and the cruise lines to ensure your safety. At the Port entrances, everyone over the age of 18 will be asked to present a government-issued photo ID (driver's license or passport). Cruise passengers should also have their tickets available to show the security officer.

what will happen if there is a hurricane in the area?

The main priority of any cruise line is the safety and comfort of its passengers and crew. Cruise cancellations are rare and only occur when it's absolutely necessary. Cruise lines will make every effort to provide their guests with a satisfying cruise experience, as long as it's possible to work around any safety concerns.

In the event of a hurricane, your cruise line will be closely monitoring the situation around the clock. In an effort to minimize the effect on ship departures and schedules, announcements are usually made one or two days in advance of scheduled sailings. The best thing to do is to visit the cruise line's website for the most up-to-date information.

how does port everglades pay for improvements and operations?

Port Everglades is proud to be a self-funded Enterprise Fund of Broward County government, which means the Port uses its revenues for continued Port expansion and to cover operating costs. The Port provides tremendous economic opportunity to the surrounding communities and provides thousands of direct and indirect jobs associated with Port activities.

how can i prevent illness during my cruise?

The U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that you wash your hands frequently with soap and water. Take advantage of hand sanitizer dispensers located in the terminals and throughout your cruise ship. For more information, visit cdc.gov/norovirus.

Is there a number I can call if my questions is not listed, or for more information?

Yes, please call 954-468-3720.