Cruises are meant to be relaxing, but getting to the port on time? Not so much. If you’re sailing out of Miami or Port Everglades, spending a night or two in Fort Lauderdale before boarding can make all the difference.
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Why arriving early for your cruise is smart
There’s no polite way to say it. Same-day flight arrivals for cruises are a gamble. One delay, missed connection or storm system can throw your vacation into chaos. Arriving the day before provides a buffer and cuts out that first-day stress you probably booked the cruise to escape from in the first place.
Many seasoned travelers treat the pre-cruise day as a bonus vacation. Flights tend to be cheaper a day earlier, and there’s more flexibility if weather or delays become an issue. Plus, Fort Lauderdale is a city worth visiting in its own right.
Why Fort Lauderdale is worth your time
Known as the Venice of America, Fort Lauderdale boasts more than 165 miles of navigable waterways. The city has grown from a sleepy beach town into a stylish, art-forward destination with restaurants, galleries and design-conscious hotels that go far beyond just sun and sand.
The area saw a post-pandemic tourism boom, with a 32% increase in domestic visitors over the past two years. And while the beaches are still a major draw, downtown areas like Las Olas have transformed Fort Lauderdale into a weekend-worthy destination for food lovers, shoppers and anyone who appreciates warm breezes with a side of mojito.
Where to stay before your cruise
Choosing a hotel close to Port Everglades can streamline your trip, but many travelers opt for locations that offer walkable attractions and a more scenic experience. Fort Lauderdale is a great destination with a completely different vibe from Miami, and can be a refreshing change if you fly into Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport for your Miami cruise.
Hyatt Centric Las Olas
This downtown property sits on Las Olas Boulevard and offers stylish, modern rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows. The rooftop pool and bar overlook the New River, and at the Hyatt Centric Las Olas, you’re within walking distance of dining, shopping and the water taxi. It’s about a 10-minute drive to the cruise port.
Hilton Fort Lauderdale Marina
Popular with cruise passengers for its location, the Hilton sits right on the Intracoastal Waterway near Port Everglades. It’s ideal for watching ships come and go, and many rooms have balconies overlooking the marina.
Riverside Hotel
This classic Fort Lauderdale hotel has been part of the Las Olas scene since the 1930s. The Riverside Hotel’s Old Florida charm mixes with modern updates, and its location in the heart of downtown makes it easy to explore on foot. It’s also one of the few hotels in the area with its own dock, in case you decide to arrive by water taxi.
Element Fort Lauderdale Downtown
For travelers who like having a kitchen and a little more room, Element offers apartment-style suites with modern design and thoughtful amenities. The rooftop bar and lounge make it feel less like a chain and more like a boutique stay.
How to get around Fort Lauderdale
Forget the rental car. Fort Lauderdale has embraced some unique transit options that are fun and surprisingly efficient. Uber from the airport to your hotel, and then enjoy local alternatives.
Circuit cars
These all-electric shuttles operate within popular areas like Las Olas and the beach. They’re free, though tips are appreciated and can be hailed via an app. It’s a great way to get around without worrying about parking or traffic.
Water taxi
With 10 stops stretching from downtown to the beach, the Water Taxi is both transportation and entertainment. Narrated rides offer insight into local history, celebrity homes and the area’s maritime culture. Purchase a day pass to hop on and off at your leisure.
Walk
Fort Lauderdale is a surprisingly walkable city, especially in the Las Olas area. Many hotels are just a few minutes from fantastic local restaurants and many activities to enjoy. With the warm weather year round, work off some of the vacation calories by being your own transportation.
What to do during your pre-cruise stay
Use your extra day or two to unwind and explore before setting sail. Not only do you have less stress about getting to your ship on time, but Fort Lauderdale offers plenty to do for all ages.
Visit the speakeasy at Room 901
Hidden inside the Hyatt Centric Las Olas, Room 901 is a secret cocktail bar with a rotating list of small-batch spirits and clever mixology. You must make reservations and show up on time for your two-hour reservation, but this unique speakeasy is a vacation highlight. With just 12 people per seating, this intimate experience has a fantastic and personable bartender to create a memory you’ll treasure.
Book a lesson at the pickleball stadium
Pickleball exploded in popularity across the United States after COVID, and Fort Lauderdale took notice. The city recently opened the first dedicated pickleball stadium in the U.S., where non-members can visit to play a game or take lessons with pros for those who have never played up through tournament champions. It’s a great way to stay active and try something new before your cruise.
Take a gondola tour of the canals
Riverfront Gondola Tours offers a slower, more romantic way to see Fort Lauderdale’s waterways. The electric-powered gondolas glide past luxury homes and tucked-away neighborhoods you can’t see by car. It’s an unexpected, peaceful way to experience the Venice of America. You can bring your own food and drink aboard or coordinate with local restaurants to have it provided as you board.
Explore the Las Olas District
This downtown stretch blends fashion-forward boutiques with galleries, bars and restaurants. Look for one-of-a-kind finds at shops like Majestic Fine Art and Gems, and stop for a bite at eateries like I Scream Gelato or Sixty Vines. Many storefronts are locally owned and reflect the city’s mix of beachy and upscale.
Relax at the beach
Of course, you don’t need an agenda. Fort Lauderdale Beach is clean, wide and easy to access. The section closest to Las Olas tends to be less crowded than tourist-heavy areas further north. Stake out a lounge chair and ease into vacation mode before you ever set foot on your cruise ship.
Start your vacation on the right note
A pre-cruise stay in Fort Lauderdale offers more than just peace of mind; it gives you a head start on your vacation. With sun-drenched canals, vibrant neighborhoods and easy access to Port Everglades, this city is more than just a gateway. It’s a destination worth exploring on its own terms, even if just for a day or two.
Michelle Price is a food and travel writer at Honest and Truly who almost has an empty nest. She loves to provide both the inspiration and the confidence you need to help get you into the kitchen and on the road to enjoy new flavors and experiences.