disney cruise line miami port

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This Florida hotspot is the perfect place to set sail from when exploring the Caribbean.

Getting to the Port

The port terminal is located at 1015 North America Way Miami, FL 33132. Parking is available for a fee of $24 per night.

Disney Cruise Line Transfer

Disney does offer transfers to and from the airport for $21 per person each way.

Things To Do Before or After a Cruise

Miami is famous for its beaches, notably the fabulous South Beach. Miami is also very close to 2 amazing national parks: Everglades National Park and Biscayne National Park, the only living tropical reef within the continental U.S.

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Disney Cruises from Miami

Departing from Miami, Florida , Disney Cruise Line offers cruises to some of the world's most exotic locations and ports around the Caribbean and the Bahamas. Embarking on a Disney Cruise Line voyage from Miami leads you to the enchanting islands of the Caribbean. These cruises offer passengers the unique chance to explore sparkling turquoise waters, pristine white sand beaches, and diverse marine life, creating unforgettable family memories. Combining Disney's unmatched storytelling and service with the natural beauty of the Caribbean creates a vacation experience unlike any other. Imagine the magic of Disney, with the warm Caribbean sun and tranquil seas as your backdrop.

Disney Cruise Line has made its mark in the industry as a family-friendly cruise line that infuses Disney magic into every aspect of the cruise experience. Cruising to the Caribbean from Miami, the line employs its classic fleet, including the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy, known for their elegance, innovation, and attention to detail. Despite offering a premium cruise experience, Disney Cruise Line remains reasonably priced, making it a popular choice among families. This cruise line merges the allure of a Disney vacation with the fascination of the Caribbean, making it an attractive option for families, Disney enthusiasts, and sea lovers alike.

Disney Cruise Line Ships

On or any other ship operated by Disney Cruise Line, there is always something fun to do. Every Disney cruise ship is a floating wonderland with numerous amenities and services to enjoy. Unforgettable Broadway-style Disney musicals, first-run Disney movies, and deck parties with fireworks at sea will keep you entertained. While kids are off on their own Disney adventures in the youth clubs, adults can retreat to exclusive adult-only areas, including a tranquil pool, nightclubs, and specialty dining. Character meet-and-greets, a water coaster at sea, and themed play areas make a Disney Caribbean cruise a true family adventure.

Disney Cruise Line provides a broad range of package options to customize your Caribbean cruise experience. From spacious staterooms that perfectly cater to families, to diverse dining packages offering both casual fare and upscale cuisine, there's something for every preference. Disney Cruise Line also offers numerous beverage and spa packages, enhancing your relaxation and indulgence on board. Their selection of shore excursions allows you to explore the Caribbean's most charming spots, steeped in culture, history, and natural beauty.

Cruises from Miami

Miami, a lively, cosmopolitan city with Cuban influences, serves as an exciting starting point for Disney Cruise Line’s Caribbean adventures. The modern Port of Miami is renowned for its efficiency and excellent facilities, ensuring a smooth embarkation and disembarkation process for all Disney cruises. Miami itself offers a host of attractions, from its stunning beaches and vibrant neighborhoods to its world-class dining and nightlife, providing a delightful prelude or closing chapter to your cruise journey.

Disney Cruise Line from Miami itineraries and cruise ship schedule

Choosing a Disney Cruise Line Caribbean cruise from Miami promises an enchanting voyage filled with Disney magic, coupled with the serene beauty of the Caribbean Sea. As you depart from the vibrant city of Miami, the anticipation of the adventure that lies ahead will fill your heart. Disney Cruise Line combines world-class service, immersive storytelling, and diverse Caribbean destinations to create a vacation that caters to the desires of every family member. Step aboard and let the magic of Disney guide you through the Caribbean's captivating allure.

Disney Cruise Line Cruise Ship Schedule from Miami

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Disney Cruises from Miami

• There are currently no scheduled Disney Cruise departures from Miami through at least October 2025
• Disney Cruise Line likely will not sail from Miami for the foreseeable future
• Consider a Disney Cruise from Fort Lauderdale (just 30 miles away from Miami) as an alternative

For historic data on Disney Cruise Line Miami departures, read on…

Embark on an adventure of a lifetime with Disney cruises departing from Miami, Florida. Choose from a range of sailing durations, spanning three to fourteen nights, visiting stunning ports of call in the Bahamas, Western Caribbean, Eastern Caribbean, and Panama Canal. This article provides you with all the essential information to plan Disney cruises from Miami, including departure dates, detailed itinerary information, costs, and an in-depth look at the Disney cruise ships. Discover the ease of transportation from the airport, convenient parking options at the port, and comfortable accommodations near the Disney Port of Miami Cruise Terminal.

Overview   |  Dates & Itineraries   |  Ships   |  Port   |  Airports   |  Hotels

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Disney Cruises From Miami in 2024 & 2025

Image © Disney

The future of regularly-scheduled Disney Cruises from Miami is very much in doubt.

Consider the following:

• Miami had been a regularly-scheduled departure port for Disney Cruise Line since late 2012, but no Miami departures have been scheduled since the Disney Magic last set sail from there on October 5, 2023
• On November 20, 2023, Disney began year-round departures from Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale — a mere 30 miles away from PortMiami — and solidified its long-term commitment by constructing a dedicated cruise terminal building there
• Disney’s entire 2024 departure schedule has been released, and Miami is completely absent for the first time in 12 years
• Disney has released 2025 sail dates through late October, with Miami again absent from the schedule so far

For these reasons, we believe it is highly unlikely that Miami will be a regular departure port for Disney Cruise Line for the foreseeable future.

One potential saving grace, however, is that Disney Cruise calendar for the entire fleet is being continually adjusted due to the additions of the newest Disney Cruise ships (Disney Wish, Disney Treasure, Disney Adventure, and another ship yet to be built). It remains to be seen if any of those will spend time departing from Miami in the future — but again, we would be somewhat surprised if they did.

We will keep you updated on the latest developments regarding the schedules and itineraries for the 2025 Disney cruises. Contact The Vacationeer for the latest Disney cruise pricing and availability.

Staterooms and Dates Are Limited, So Don’t Wait Until They Are Gone!

Dates & Itineraries: Miami Disney Cruises

As mentioned in the previous section , there are currently no 2024 or 2025 Disney Cruise Line departures scheduled from Miami .

For reference, we’ve included summaries below of the types of itineraries that were most recently offered (as late as 2023). In the meantime, we’d suggest considering a Disney Cruise from nearby Fort Lauderdale.

3-Night Bahamian Cruise from Miami

Itinerary includes:

• Disney Castaway Cay
• Nassau, Bahamas

4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Miami

5-Night Bahamian Cruise from Miami

• Disney Castaway Cay (2 days)

5-Night Western Caribbean Cruise from Miami

• George Town, Grand Cayman
• Day at Sea (2 days)

• Cozumel, Mexico

7-Night Western Caribbean Cruise from Miami

• Falmouth, Jamaica

7-Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise from Miami

• Tortola, British Virgin Islands
• St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands
• Day at Sea (3 days)

13-Night Eastbound Transatlantic Cruise from Miami Ending in Barcelona

• Cádiz, Spain
• Cartagena, Spain
• Lisbon, Portugal
• Málaga, Spain
• Ponta Delgada (Azores), Portugal
• Day at Sea (7 days)
• Barcelona, Spain (disembark at end of cruise)

14-Night Westbound Panama Canal Cruise from Miami Ending in San Diego

• Cartagena, Colombia
• Panama Canal (pass-through without leaving ship)
• Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
• Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
• San Diego, California (disembark at end of cruise)

Need Help Finding the Perfect Disney Cruise?

Look no further than The Vacationeer , a  top-rated Disney agency  known for its  expertise, professionalism, and passion for Disney cruises .

The Vacationeer  will book every aspect of your Miami cruise at the  most affordable price , ensuring it meets your specific needs and preferences. The same applies to  Disney cruises from Galveston ,  New Orleans ,  San Diego ,  New York , and the dozens of other  Disney cruises from Florida  if you’re flexible with your departure city.

As a special booking bonus,  The Vacationeer  offers  onboard credit  for Disney cruises  which you can use as free money during your cruise! And good news for those who live in the Sunshine State — these onboard credits  can  be combined with  Florida Resident Disney Cruise discounts !

Best of all,  The Vacationeer  provides these  helpful services for free !

First-time Disney cruisers  benefit greatly from the guidance of a travel planner. Contact  The Vacationeer today to learn more about the best Disney cruises from Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and all around the world!

Disney Cruises From Miami: Where Do They Go?

The Disney Miami cruise season historically offered a range of cruise options, including destinations in the Bahamas, Western Caribbean, Eastern Caribbean, and Panama Canal . Available cruise lengths included three, four, five, seven, and fourteen-night options, all departing from the Port of Miami and sailing on the Disney Magic or Disney Dream ships.

Miami cruises included ports such as Disney Castaway Cay, Nassau, Bahamas, Tortola, British Virgin Islands, St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, Cozumel, Mexico, George Town, Grand Cayman, and Falmouth, Jamaica .

At these ports of call, there are plenty of exciting water and shore excursions and experiences to choose from, including beach and water activities, historical and cultural tours, and more.

On board a Disney ship, you can enjoy live entertainment, deck parties, and Disney-themed activities. The family-friendly facilities include play areas for children, teen clubs, and meet-and-greets with Disney characters. In addition, the spa offers relaxation, the gym keeps you fit, and the pool and water slide lets you cool off. There’s no such thing as boredom on a Disney cruise ship!

Here are some details about the ports that Disney cruises routinely visited from Miami.

About Disney Castaway Cay Cruise Port

Castaway Cay, Disney’s private island , is a tropical getaway for Disney cruise guests. It features beaches, lagoons, water sports, and family-friendly attractions like the Family private Beach, Pelican Plunge water slide, and Snorkeling Lagoon. The tranquil adult-only Serenity Bay is also available for those seeking peace and relaxation. Additionally, guests can enjoy Port Adventures like snorkeling with stingrays, fishing excursions, and biking, giving them a truly unique experience.

Its stunning beauty and diverse activities make it a paradise island for people of all ages. See our  Castaway Cay tips  for more information.

About the Tortola, British Virgin Islands Disney Cruise Port

Tortola, the largest island in the British Virgin Islands, is a favorite destination for Disney cruises departing from Miami. The tropical getaway is famous for its white sand beaches and activities such as water sports, zip-lining, shopping, dining, and sightseeing. There are also attractions on the island, such as Brewer’s Bay, Dolphin Discovery, Mount Healthy National Park, Sage Mountain National Park, and the J.R. O’Neal Botanic Garden. The combination of these factors makes it a great port to visit on your Disney Miami cruise.

About the Nassau, Bahamas Disney Cruise Port

Nassau is a popular stop on Disney cruises from Miami, attracting tourists with its rich history, breathtaking beaches, and exciting activities. In addition, you can enjoy duty-free shopping, explore the historic Old Town, admire the pink Parliament Building, and visit historic forts like Fort Fincastle. Nassau’s Port Adventures include snorkeling, sightseeing, dolphin encounters, or  visiting Atlantis’ water park .

About St. Thomas, Virgin Islands Disney Cruise Port

St. Thomas, located in the Virgin Islands, is a sought-after destination for Disney cruises from Miami. The stunning beauty of its beaches, pristine waters, and great historical landmarks have earned the island a reputation as a premier tourist spot and a popular choice for cruise travelers. Visitors to St. Thomas have many activities, including snorkeling, shopping, touring a pirate museum, or setting sail on a scenic catamaran trip. So whether you’re a history buff, adventure seeker, or beach lover, St. Thomas has something to offer everyone.

The above video reflects 2021 COVID-19 measures which may no longer be in effect.

About George Town, Grand Cayman Disney Cruise Port

George Town in Grand Cayman is a popular port of call for Disney cruises departing from Miami. While visiting, travelers can indulge in shopping, participate in beach and water activities, or visit Stingray City to interact with friendly stingrays. The town’s breathtaking natural beauty and top-notch amenities make it an exceptional destination for cruise passengers. George Town also offers fantastic snorkeling and diving experiences with its clear turquoise waters and vibrant coral reefs.

About Falmouth, Jamaica Disney Cruise Port

Falmouth, Jamaica, is a port of call for several Disney cruises departing from Miami, FL. The town, situated between Montego Bay and Ocho Rios, offers a unique opportunity to experience the Caribbean through its historic Georgian architecture. With beautiful white sand beaches, horseback riding, and zip-lining, Falmouth is a great getaway destination for families and couples alike. Visitors can also indulge in the local culture, from savoring authentic Jamaican cuisine to exploring the vibrant music scene.

About Cozumel, Mexico Disney Cruise Port

Cozumel is a popular tourist destination for Disney cruises, including those leaving from the Port of Miami. This tropical paradise near the Yucatan Peninsula boasts picturesque beaches, crystal-clear waters, and abundant coral reefs, perfect for snorkeling and diving. Tourists can embrace the local culture by exploring Mayan ruins, enjoying duty-free shopping, or visiting the Museo de Cozumel and Playa San Francisco Beach. Additionally, Port Adventures offer a variety of activities, from scuba diving to chocolate-making classes.

Do Disney Cruises From Miami Go to the Bahamas (Castaway Cay)?

Yes, many Disney cruises departing from Miami visit the Bahamas, including the popular destinations of Castaway Cay and Nassau. In fact, several of the Miami-based  Disney cruise itineraries  feature stops at both destinations, allowing guests to experience the best of the Bahamas.

Castaway Cay is a highlight of many Disney cruises, offering a serene and Disney’s private island paradise experience complete with stunning beaches and a variety of activities and amenities.

Meanwhile, Nassau provides a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the Bahamas, with its colorful architecture, lively streets, and charming local markets.

Disney cruises from Miami to the Bahamas are a fantastic way to experience the beauty and culture of this tropical destination. But if Miami doesn’t work for you, Disney cruises from Port Canaveral and Fort Lauderdale in Florida offer convenient alternatives. The Port of San Juan also provides a singular Caribbean experience, with stops at the Bahamas and other Caribbean destinations.

For more information, reach out to The Vacationeer and learn about their generous onboard credit.

How Many Disney Cruises From Miami Are There?

There were 58 Disney cruises departing from Miami in 2023, but none are currently scheduled for 2024 or 2025 . The Disney Dream departed 27 times during the first half of 2023, while the Disney Magic departed 31 times during the second half. Various itineraries were available on these Miami cruises, allowing guests to explore the Caribbean, the Bahamas, and other destinations while enjoying all the magic of Disney on board the ship.

Contact The Vacationeer for the latest information on current Disney Cruise offerings from south Florida ports.

How Long Are Disney’s Miami Cruises?

Disney Cruise Line offers a wide selection of cruises departing from Miami. You can choose from five different cruise lengths:  three, four, five, seven, or fourteen nights , all aboard the Disney Magic or Disney Dream ships. Cruises on these Disney ships allow you to explore popular ports of call in the Bahamas, Western Caribbean, Eastern Caribbean, and Panama Canal. Some itineraries visit multiple ports, while others only visit one.

If you’re new to cruising, a three or four-night trip is an excellent introduction to life on a ship. However, seasoned cruisers may opt for longer voyages that allow for more time in the ports and a greater variety of magical experiences on the Sea. No matter your choice, you can count on a Disney cruise from Miami to be memorable and enjoyable.

How Much Do Disney Cruises From Miami Cost?

Families can enjoy a magical cruise vacation on the seas on Disney cruises from Miami, but the cost can be a major concern.

A 3-Night Bahamian Cruise from Miami, the least expensive option, started at $1,566 for two people in 2023 (the last year in which sailings were scheduled). On the other hand, a 14-night Halloween on the High Seas Westbound Panama Canal Cruise, the most expensive itinerary, began at $4,836 for two people .

It is important to note that  the  cost of a Disney cruise  is all-inclusive, covering the stateroom, meals, and most entertainment, activities, and services . The cost is also  for two people , making the  per-person price  more affordable. As a result, a Disney cruise provides exceptional value for your money because of  all that’s included .

Passengers on the Disney Magic can enjoy a wide range of premium entertainment, such as Broadway-style shows, movie screenings, fireworks displays, and the chance to meet Disney characters. Kids and teenagers can participate in free clubs with exciting activities, including Oceaneer Club for ages 3-10, Edge for ages 11-14, and Vibe, a lounge for teens ages 14-17. Adults can access nightclubs, lounges, fitness centers, and an adult-only pool without additional costs .

As a perk, the cost of a Disney cruise covers taxes, fees, and port expenses. However, certain items and services are not included in the base price. Separate charges will apply for airfare, dining at specialty restaurants,  tipping , spa services, Port Adventures, bottled beverages, and  alcohol .

Want to Calculate Your Exact Price? Contact The Vacationeer.

About the Disney Magic Cruise Ship From Miami

Miami is an exceptional starting point for your  first-ever Disney cruise , and a voyage aboard the Disney Magic is sure to be memorable. With a length of 954 feet and 11 decks that can accommodate 2,700 passengers, the Disney Magic is one of the  best Disney cruise ships  if you are new to cruising. Its small size makes it easy to navigate, but it’s still quite comfortable and spacious.

AquaDunk water slide on the Disney Magic | Image © Disney

A Disney Magic cruise from Miami offers a variety of activities and entertainment options. There is something for everyone, from pools to water slides to deck parties. The whole family can make memories with beloved Disney characters, enjoy exciting theater performances, and participate in age-appropriate activities at the kids’ clubs. At the same time, adults can unwind in the adult-only pool, spa, fitness club, and bars and lounges.

Disney Magic cruises feature Rotational Dining, where you can dine at three main dining rooms: Animator’s Palate, Lumiere’s, and Rapunzel’s Royal Table. Friendly serving staff will accompany you on your culinary journey throughout the trip.

A stateroom verandah onboard the Disney Magic | Image © Disney

There are four types of stateroom categories on Disney Magic: Inside, Outside, Verandah, and  Concierge . Each category has subcategories, which makes selecting a room difficult. You can learn more about choosing a stateroom by reading our  Best Staterooms on a Disney Cruise  guide. For personalized assistance, contact a Disney travel agent.

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About the Disney Cruise Port of Miami Terminal

Image © Miami Dade Government

The Port of Miami, known as  PortMiami , is a popular departure point for various cruise lines, including Disney Cruise Line. Located in downtown Miami, Florida, PortMiami provides easy access to Disney’s popular Caribbean and Bahamian destinations, including the exclusive island of Castaway Cay. The convenient location, established infrastructure, and many amenities of PortMiami make it an ideal starting point for  Disney cruises from Florida .

What’s the Disney Cruise Line Address at Port of Miami?

The Disney Cruise Terminal at PortMiami is the departure point for Caribbean and Bahamian cruises. It is conveniently located just east of downtown Miami, providing easy access to the city’s attractions and amenities. The terminal has modern facilities, so passengers can easily board and disembark.

Here is the Disney Cruise Line address at Port of Miami:

Disney Cruise Terminal 1104 Port Miami Tunnel (Terminal C) Miami, FL 33132

You can reach the Port of Miami by calling (305) 347-4800.

Directions for Driving to Port of Miami

Miami’s highways can get quite congested during peak travel times, so you should allow plenty of time to get to the cruise port. The following directions will show you how to reach the Disney cruise terminal via the Port of Miami Tunnel.

From the North to the Port of Miami :

• Start by heading South on I-95, then take the eastbound I-395 (Miami Beach) ramp. Continue driving on I-395 East and cross over the MacArthur Causeway ICW Bridge. The entrance to the Port of Miami Tunnel is on your left.

From the South to the Port of Miami:

• Take SR-826 North to SR-836 East and then continue east on SR-836 to I-395 East (Miami Beach). Drive along I-395 East/MacArthur Causeway – the entrance to the tunnel is on the left.

From the West to the Port of Miami:

• Take I-95 North and turn onto the eastbound I-395 (Miami Beach) ramp. Continue driving on I-395 East/MacArthur Causeway, and you will find the tunnel entrance on the left side of the road.

From Miami Beach to the Port of Miami:

• Travel Westbound on the I-395/MacArthur Causeway and exit onto the Biscayne Boulevard ramp. Make a U-turn on N. Bayshore Drive to head back Eastbound on the MacArthur Causeway. Continue traveling Eastbound on I-395; the PortMiami Tunnel entrance will be located on your left.

Via Downtown:

Disney’s Port of Miami terminal can be reached via downtown Miami and Port Bridge as follows:

• For those coming  from the North , exit I-95 South at 3B-Bayside and head south on Northeast 5th Street. Turn left and follow 5th Street, leading you onto the PortMiami bridge. Continue over the bridge and follow the signage to your designated terminal.
• For those coming  from the South , exit I-95 North at Northwest 2nd Street, then proceed straight to NW 5th Street and make a right. Fifth Street will take you onto the PortMiami bridge. Continue over the bridge and follow the signage to your designated terminal.

Parking at the Port of Miami’s Disney Cruise Terminal

The Port of Miami offers ample and secure parking for cruise passengers, including parking for a wide range of vehicles. Drivers with disabilities have designated spaces at each terminal, and oversized vehicles (such as vans, RVs, and trailers) can park for an additional fee. Security personnel regularly patrols the facilities, making sure vehicles are safe.

All garages are open from 6 AM to 5 PM and staffed by parking attendants on cruise days.

You can reach the Disney Cruise Line terminal by entering the port and following the signs. Disney Cruise Line is located at Terminal C.

Cost of Parking at the Port of Miami for Disney Cruises

Guests planning to drive to Port of Miami should factor parking costs into their travel plans. Parking is available at PortMiami and in third-party lots nearby. Parking costs are determined by the length of time you plan to park (usually the duration of your cruise).

Official Port of Miami Cruise Ship Parking Lots and Garage

Parking rates at PortMiami are based on the length of your stay and the type of parking space you require. For short-term parking (no overnight), the 2023 rate was $8 per vehicle per day (or a fraction of a day). For longer stays, overnight or greater, the 2023 rate was $22 per vehicle per day  (or a fraction of a day).

A lost parking ticket costs the equivalent of an 11-day cruise, which was $242 per vehicle. So hold on to your ticket!

Disabled veterans (with a valid Florida license plate for disabled veterans) receive free parking.

• Cost: $22 per day
• Distance: At the terminal
• Website:  https://www.miamidade.gov/portmiami/parking-information.asp

Unofficial (Off-Site) Miami Cruise Ship Parking Lots and Garages

In addition to on-site parking, several off-site parking options are near the Disney Cruise Terminal. Here are a few examples as of the 2023 (the last year Disney cruises departed from Miami):

Safe Cruise Parking

Disney cruisers can park at the company’s secure and convenient facility located 2.5 miles from the Port of Miami. Safe Cruise Parking features a gated lot, luggage assistance, and complimentary shuttle buses that depart every 15 minutes, so getting to the ship is easy. For added comfort, the shuttle buses also provide restrooms and refreshments onboard.

The best way to ensure a hassle-free experience is to pre-book your Safe Cruise Parking space.

• Cost $14.97 per day
• Distance: 2.5 miles (a free shuttle service is available)
• Website:  https://neworleansparking.com

WePark offers an affordable parking solution in the heart of downtown Miami, perfect for those departing on a Disney Miami cruise. To ensure a smooth experience, they provide complimentary shuttle transfers to and from the port. You can park in garages or secure lots and even get your car washed while you are away!

Book ahead to ensure a hassle-free experience.

• Cost: $13.33 per day (3-day minimum)
• Distance: ~2 miles (a free shuttle is available)
• Website:  https://weparkinmiami.com/

Premier Cruise Parking

The Premier Cruise Parking facility is approximately 2 miles from the Port of Miami and provides indoor parking for cruise passengers. In addition, the facility provides a complimentary shuttle service to and from the cruise terminal. Note that the parking garage has a height restriction of 7 feet and cannot accommodate oversize vehicles. During busy times, a valet parking service is available for customers.

• Cost: $14.33 per day (3-day minimum)
• Website:  https://premiercruiseparking.com/

Parking at Nearby Hotels

Miami hotels with park & cruise packages are a great option for those who plan to stay over before their cruise. These hotels offer discounted (or free) parking while you cruise if you stay for a night.

The following hotels offer such packages:

Hilton Miami Downtown (Distance to Port: 2.2 miles)

The Hilton Downtown is a modern and stylish hotel located 2 miles from Disney’s Miami cruise port. It’s slightly less expensive than the DoubleTree and offers comfortable rooms. With the “ Park and Go ” package, you get seven nights of parking and a shuttle to the port. This hotel is a good choice for those seeking high-end accommodations near the port.

DoubleTree Biscayne Bay: (Distance to Port: 2.4 miles)

DoubleTree Biscayne Bay offers cruise parking and rooms ranging in price from $155 to $300. With their “ Park & Go  ” deal, you can leave your car while you cruise and save on parking costs, but there is a valet parking fee of $39 while you cruise. The hotel is situated on the water, offers views of cruise ships, and is within walking distance from the Frost Science Museum. The distance from the hotel to the port is 1.5 miles.

Hampton Inn & Suites Miami/Brickell-Downtown (Distance to Port: 2.9 miles)

The Hampton Inn & Suites Miami/Brickell-Downtown is located in downtown Miami, less than three miles from Disney’s Miami cruise port. The highly-rated hotel offers an exclusive “ Park, Stay, & Cruise ” package, which includes transportation for two to the port (one way) and discounted parking for up to a week at $14 per day, which is $8 less per day than parking at the terminal. However, this package is around $35 more than the regular flexible rate.

Please contact your Disney travel agent for more information about Disney cruises from Miami, including pre-or post-cruise stays.

Restaurants Near the Port of Miami

PortMiami offers a variety of dining options for travelers before or after their Disney cruise from Miami. Two popular restaurants are located right at the Port:  Seaman Cafe  and The Counter Burger. There are also dozens of fast food, casual, and fine dining establishments close to the Port Miami Bridge.

Here are some top recommendations close to the port:

• Bubba Gump Shrimp Co .: Casual seafood dining inspired by the classic film “Forrest Gump.”
• The Counter Burger : A fast-casual restaurant specializing in customizable burgers and creative toppings.
• Five Guys : Casual fast food chain known for its burgers and fries.”
• Hard Rock Cafe : Iconic rock and roll-themed restaurant serving classic American fare.
• La Mar by Gastón Acurio : Chic waterfront restaurant that serves contemporary Peruvian cuisine.
• Lombardis Miami Italian Restaurant : A classic Italian dining experience with a Miami twist.
• Pollos & Jarras : A traditional Peruvian restaurant serving succulent rotisserie chicken and grilled meats.
• Seaman Cafe : A casual American dining option with a full bar.

There are countless options for dining in Miami before or after a Disney cruise.

Airports for Disney Miami Cruises

Flying into Miami International Airport (MIA) is the most convenient option for reaching the Port of Miami (unless you prefer to drive and don’t mind paying for parking).

Which Airport Should I Fly Into for a Disney Miami Cruise?

The main airport for cruising out of Miami is  Miami International Airport  (MIA). It is located approximately 8 miles from the Port of Miami.

Another option is  Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport  (FLL), about 25 miles from the Port of Miami.

For cruises from Miami,  it’s best to fly into Miami International Airport since it’s much closer to the Port of Miami. However, there could be cheaper or more convenient flights to Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport . In that case, you may prefer that option. However, you will still need to take a taxi, rideshare, or shuttle service (which is more expensive than transportation from MIA).

What is the Best Way to Get from the Miami Airport to PortMiami?

The most suitable and convenient mode of transportation from Miami International Airport to PortMiami depends on your priorities and budget. Renting a car is an option, but it can be expensive. A popular alternative is to take a rideshare, taxi, or shuttle service.

We prefer using  a rideshare app like Uber or booking Disney’s official airport shuttle .

If you are looking for the cheapest way to get to PortMiami, take a ridesharing app like Uber or a taxi. For a seamless Disney experience, the official shuttle from Disney Cruise Line is the best option. Even though it provides a smooth and stress-free experience, a per-person fee is associated with it, which can become expensive for a family.

The cruise terminal is only 8 miles away, but traffic can be unpredictable. So allow extra time for your trip.

How Much does an Uber Cost from the Miami Airport to PortMiami?

The price of an Uber ride can fluctuate significantly based on your selected vehicle type and the distance traveled. Here is a rough estimate of the cost for an Uber ride from Miami International Airport (MIA) or Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) to the Disney Cruise Line terminal located at the Port of Miami.

The estimated cost of an Uber from MIA to Port of Miami (8 miles):

• Uber X or Uber Green : $17.26
• Uber XL : $28.32

The estimated cost of an Uber from FLL to Port of Miami (25 miles):

• Uber X or Uber Green : $37.28
• Uber XL : $66.07

How Much are Taxis from the Airport to the Port of Miami?

Taxis offer convenient transportation to the Port of Miami but are more expensive than similar ridesharing services like Uber.

• Taxis are estimated to cost $39.44 from MIA to the Port of Miami.
• Taxis are estimated to cost $96.11 from FLL to the Port of Miami.

Adding a tip to your Uber or taxi fare will increase these estimates.

How Much are Shuttles from Miami Airport to the PortMiami Hotels?

The cost of shuttles from Miami International Airport to PortMiami-area hotels varies depending on the type of shuttle service you choose. Although shared shuttles are a budget-friendly alternative, they often have a per-person pricing structure which may not be the most cost-effective option for larger groups. In such cases, dedicated vehicles such as Uber, Lyft, or taxis may be a more economical choice, especially for families. Nevertheless, here are the airport shuttle options.

Official Disney Shuttles

Disney Cruise Line’s shuttle transfers provide a hassle-free way to travel between Miami International Airport, Port of Miami hotels, and the Port of Miami cruise terminal. With a  per-person cost of $21  per leg, round-trip transfers cost $63 if you stay at a hotel or $42 for airport-to-port transfers. While the price may seem steep for families, the convenience and seamless connection to your Disney experiences makes it a worthwhile investment. The drivers also handle your luggage, making the journey even more stress-free.

Booking these transfers is simple: schedule a pickup, and the shuttle will take you to your desired destination. Reservations are required with Disney Cruise Line or a Disney Travel Agent.

Unofficial Airport Shuttles

Several independent shuttle companies offer a range of options for cruise-goers, including shared bus service, private mini buses, limos, and other private and shared vehicle options.  Express Shuttle Miami, Jayride, GoAirportShuttle, AirportShuttles, and AmericanShuttle  provide reliable and cost-effective transportation solutions for individuals or larger groups. These independent shuttles are an excellent alternative for those who want more control over their transportation arrangements, and the pricing can vary dramatically based on the vehicle you choose.

Even with these third-party shuttles, we still recommend the Disney Cruise Line shuttle for its competitive pricing and reliable service.

For ground transfers, call DCL at (800) 951-3532 to verify availability or contact  The Vacationeer  for assistance.  The Vacationeer  can handle your arrangements, saving you time and stress.

Bundle Your Cruise, Hotel, and Ground Transit Into a Single, Carefree Package

Hotels Near the Port of Miami and the Airport

Image © Disney / Grupo Eurobuilding

It might be a good idea to arrive in Miami one or two days before your Disney Cruise. Doing this will minimize any potential disruptions or traffic issues upon your arrival and allow you to explore the vibrant city of Miami, Florida.

For those who plan to spend time in Miami before or after their Disney cruise, there are numerous top-notch hotels near PortMiami and Miami International Airport, offering an authentic taste of the area.

Here are some options:

Official Disney Pre/Post Cruise Hotels:

Disney previously partnered with two hotels in the Miami area for pre and post-cruise stays. These hotel accommodations could be included in your Disney Miami cruise package.

• EB Hotel Miami : The EB Hotel Miami is a stylish option for your pre or post-cruise stay. With its modern design, well-appointed guest rooms, and 5-star dining and service, this luxurious hotel has been created for discerning travelers. The EB Hotel Miami, located at 4299 NW 36th Street, is only 3 miles from Miami International Airport and 9 miles from the cruise terminal.
• Hyatt Centric Brickell Miami : Located in Miami’s tallest building, the Hyatt Centric Brickell provides stunning views of Biscayne Bay and the turquoise waters of Biscayne Bay. Visitors can enjoy the unique shopping and dining experiences at Brickell City Center, soak in the sun on the picturesque beaches of South Beach, or immerse themselves in the iconic nightlife and art scene of Wynwood. The hotel is located at 1102 Brickell Bay Drive, approximately 7 miles from Miami International Airport and 3 miles from Disney’s cruise terminal.

For more information about these or other south Florida cruise hotels, please contact The Vacationeer .

Other Nearby Hotels:

Aside from the hotels partnered with Disney, there are numerous outstanding accommodation choices within a stone’s throw of Disney’s Port of Miami cruise terminal. Listed below are some of the nearest options.

• Holiday Inn Port of Miami-Downtown : The Holiday Inn Port of Miami-Downtown is an ideal choice for those seeking a pre or post-Disney cruise stay, offering a prime location just 1.1 miles from the Miami Port. The 3-star hotel features well-appointed rooms with modern amenities such as free WiFi, flat-screen TVs, high-pressure showerheads, and additional amenities such as an outdoor pool, fitness center, and an American restaurant.
• YVE Hotel Miami : Just 1.6 miles from the Port of Miami, this 3-star hotel offers convenient and stylish accommodations for pre- and post-Disney cruise guests. The modern rooms at YVE Hotel Miami offer free WiFi, flat-screen TVs, and desks, many with city or bay views. Suites feature additional amenities such as mini-fridges, dining areas, and pull-out sofas. The hotel offers a gastropub serving New American dishes and a fitness center.
• InterContinental Miami, an IHG Hotel : The InterContinental Miami is an exclusive high-rise 4-star hotel with stunning views of Biscayne Bay. It’s just 1.9 miles from the Port of Miami, making it ideal for pre- or post-Disney cruise stays. Guests can indulge in luxurious rooms with bay views, club rooms with lounge access and complimentary breakfast, or spacious suites with living rooms. On-site amenities include an upscale Latin American restaurant, a coffee shop, a rooftop pool, an open-air café, a spa, and a 24/7 fitness center.

These three examples only serve as a sampling of what you can do in downtown Miami pre- or post-Disney cruise. Contact  The Vacationeer  to learn more.

Are You Ready to Book Your Disney Miami Cruise?

Are you dreaming of setting sail on a magical Disney Cruise from Miami or Fort Lauderdale? The Vacationeer , a Diamond-Level  Authorized Disney Vacation Planner , can help make your dream a reality. With their  expertise in Disney Destinations , they will guide you in finding the  best Disney cruise itineraries  for your family vacation or romantic getaway. Plus, they know how to  add an extra touch of magic  to every trip!

As your  dedicated travel planner ,  The Vacationeer  is there to answer all your questions and address your needs. So whether you’re looking for the  cheapest month to cruise , a  last-minute Disney cruise , or need  tips on saving money on your Disney cruise , they are committed to helping you achieve your vacation goals. And you’ll have the  same planner by your side from start to finish , ensuring a  seamless and stress-free planning  experience.

Don’t miss this opportunity to let  The Vacationeer  help you plan your dream Disney Cruise from Miami. Contact them today for a  free quote  and to learn about their  generous onboard credit  program. With their services being  completely free , what are you waiting for?  Book your Disney cruise  now!

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Disney Cruise Miami Guide – What You Need to Know

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The Disney Magic is calling Miami its homeport for select sailings in 2021 and 20122. If you are looking for a Disney Cruise sailing from Miami you have a choice of either three, four, or five-night Bahamas cruises There are also choices of 5 or 6 night Caribbean cruises.

All of the Disney Cruise Miami sailings call at the most popular cruise port of all – Disney’s private island Castaway Cay. You will enjoy a day in paradise when you dock at Castaway Cay in the Bahamas.

Disney Magic Cruise From Miami

All of the sailings from Miami are on the fabulous Disney Magic cruise ship. She was the first of the Disney Cruise ships to be launched. Built in 1998 she is the sister ship of the Disney Wonder .

The Classic Disney ships are 984 feet long and 106 feet wide. This makes the Magic and the Wonder very manageable in terms of navigating around, but they are still large enough to have plenty for all the passengers to be entertained.

The Disney Magic can carry up to 2,713 passengers at full capacity. The 950 crew are from many different countries around the world.

There are 877 staterooms, of which three quarters are outside staterooms. There are 256 Inside Staterooms, 259 Oceanview, and 362 Verandah Staterooms.

The Disney Magic sails from Miami at the start and the end of the year, and it is following this pattern for 2021 and 2022.

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Disney Magic Ship Features

The Disney Magic has many features which are unique to Disney Cruise Lines. There is plenty for all ages to keep them entertained on this magical ship!

You will certainly find plenty of great food on the Disney Magic . All Disney Ships have a rotational dining concept for their three main restaurants. This means that all guests dine in each of the restaurants onboard.

The great thing about rotational dining is that your dining team will come with you. So they get to know your individual dining preferences.

All of the Disney Ships have the Animator’s Palate Restaurant. This is a highly innovative design where the theme is of course, animation.

Lumiere’s is named after the character in Beauty and the Beast. This French inspired restaurant is beautifully themed.

Rapunzel’s Royal Table is one of the most popular restaurants on any Disney Cruise Ship. Experienced a royal banquet with Rapunzel, Flynn Ryder, and the Snuggly Duckling Thugs.

Of course, there is plenty to keep the kids busy. Disney Cruise Lines kids clubs are the best at sea. They are completely free for ages 3 to 18. Disney Cruise Lines is also one of the few to have a Nursery to look after children aged 6 months to 3 years (there is a charge for this service).

There are plenty of things to keep the adults entertained too. A large part of the ship is exclusively reserved for the over 18s only. Relax at the Quiet Cove Pool, grab a coffee at the Cove Cafe, enjoy the Disney Magic Bars and adult-exclusive entertainment. For the ultimate in relaxation, you can visit the spa or even spend some time in the Rainforest Room. If you want a romantic dinner or brunch head to the adults-only Palo restaurant.

Entertainment on a Disney Cruise is the very best at sea. Expect Broadway-quality shows and you won’t be disappointed. Twice Charmed: An Original Twist on the Cinderella Story, Tangled:The Musical, and Disney Dreams and Enchanted Classic are the shows on the Disney Magic.

The Buena Vista Theater shows a large selection of movies. You may even be fortunate enough to be on board when there is a movie premier which will be shown on the ship.

There are so many ways to keep entertained on the Disney Magic. The AquaDunk is unique to the Disney Magic. Try it if you dare.

Of course you can simply relax and enjoy some down time. Or maybe you want to explore one of the port stops on a Disney Cruise from Miami. The most popular is Disney’s Private Island Castaway Cay . All of the Disney Cruises from Miami have a scheduled port stop at this fabulous island.

You can choose just to relax on the beach at Castaway Cay, or join in one of the many Castaway Cay Activities.

Disney Cruise Miami Port

The port of Miami is one of the busiest cruise ports in the World. The Disney Magic has, for many years, sailed out of Miami for part of the year.

There was much excitement in Fall 2018 when it was announced that there would be a new cruise terminal in Miami which would accommodate another, larger, Disney cruise ship at Port Miami.

The intention was for Disney to have a larger Disney cruise ship in the Port of Miami from January 2023 all year round which would sail 5 and 4-night departures. The plan was that in January 2024 Disney would also have a ship in Miami which sailed a 3 and 4-night rotation just as the Disney Dream does from Port Canaveral.

At the time we could have expected that the new Disney Cruise Ship the Disney Wish would have sailed out of Miami. Or maybe the second of the new Disney Trident Cruise ships.

There were also plans for the train Brightline extension to go from Orlando International Airport to Miami. Imagine being able to get on a train at MCO following your Disney World Vacation and arrive in Miami for your Disney Cruise Vacation.

However, we all know that the world has changed since 2018. And the cruising world has changed very much.

Fast forward to the world of 2020 and the plans for the Miami Port Expansion have changed. But there is still much to be enthusiastic about for the Disney Cruise fan. Disney will now share the new Miami Cruise Port Expansion with MSC Cruises. Details are still scarce but we will continue to update you when we know any further plans for the Disney Cruise Miami Port.

Disney Cruise Miami Port Address

There are currently seven Cruise Terminals in the Port of Miami. The Disney Cruise Miami Port Address is Terminal F, North Cruise Boulevard, Miami, Florida 33132.

Disney Cruise Sailings From Miami

There are a number of different sailings from Miami to choose from on the Disney Miami. All of the sailings have a port stop in Castaway Cay.

3 Night Bahamian Cruise from Miami

• Castaway Cay

Sailing on 5/6/21 and 5/5/22

Sailing on 12/26/21

4 Night Bahamian Cruise from Miami

Sailing on 2/11/21 and 4/8/21

1/13/22, 1/27/22, 2/10/22, 3/10/22, 3/24/22, 4/7/22 and 4/21/22

Sailing on 2/25/21, 3/11/21, 3/25/21 and 4/22/21

Sailing on 11/18/21 and 12/2/21

Sailing on 2/21/22

Sailing on 12/16/21

5 Night Bahamiann Cruise From Miami

Sailing on 2/1/21, 3/1/21, 3/15/21, 3/29/21, 4/12/21/ 4/26/21 11/13/21 and 12/6/21

3/1/22, 1/17/22, 1/31/22, 2/19/22, 2/28/22, 3/14/22, 4/11/22 and 4/25/22

Sailing on 4/16/22

Sailing 2/15/21

Sails on 11/27/21

5 Night Western Caribbean Cruise from Miami

• Grand Cayman

Sailing on 12/11/21

Sailing on 2/6/21, 3/6/21, 4/3/21, 5/1/21 and 12/11/21

1/22/22, 2/5/22, 3/19/22 and 4/30/22

Sailing on 2/20/21, 3/20/21 and 4/17/21

Sailing on 11/8/21, 11/22/21 and 12/29/21

1/8/22, 2/14/22, 3/5/22, 3/28/22, and 4/2/22

6 Night Western Caribbean Cruise from Miami

Sailing on 12/20/21

Learn About Disney Cruises

If you have never sailed on a Disney cruise you may like to see our guides at

Top 10 Tips for Your First Disney Cruise

How To Save Money on a Disney Cruise

Here is our complete guide to Disney Castaway Cay

Join my Disney Cruise Group for Tips and Free Giveaways!

Alison Meacham is the founder of EverythingMouse Disney Blog. For over 15 years she has shared her love of Disney Parks, Disney Cruises and Universal Orlando.  In over 30 years of Disney Travel she has spent countless months in Disney Parks and has sailed on over 45 cruises. A British native and now a United States resident she splits her time between California, Florida and the UK. And spends a serious amount of time sailing the seven seas. She helps over 200,000 people per month follow their Disney travel dreams.

Disney Castaway CayDisney Castaway Cay – EverythingMouse Guide To Disney

Saturday 4th of February 2017

[…] Disney Cruise Miami […]

Disney Cruise Trip Report from Port of Miami

My family and I spent 5 days aboard the Magic during a Very Merrytime Christmas cruise. We sailed to the Western Caribbean and to the Bahamas on this fun packed vacation.

In this Disney cruise trip report, I will walk you through our holiday vacation and provide tips for your upcoming trip with Disney Cruise Line. If you haven’t booked your Disney cruise yet, this trip review can help you decide if a Disney cruise is right for your family.

Reading DCL trip reports is what ultimately enticed me to book my family’s first cruise several years ago. So, continue reading my Disney Cruise Line trip report below, and maybe you will feel inspired! I will try to be as specific and as detailed as possible, but feel free to comment with any questions you have!

( Some of the links in my posts are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, I may receive a small compensation at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases. )

Pre-Cruise Planning

I debated for a while about which Disney cruise itinerary to choose for my family’s vacation. My two options for this trip were:

• 4-night Bahamian Cruise – This cruise sailed out of Port Canaveral on the Disney Dream. It stopped at Nassau and Castaway Cay, and it offered one day at sea.
• 5-night Western Caribbean Cruise – This cruise sailed out of Miami on the Disney Magic. It stopped in Grand Cayman and Castaway Cay, and it had two days at sea.

I was drawn to sailing on the Disney Dream because it seemed like the easier option. Flying into Orlando to sail out of Port Canaveral is a super simple process, even with little kids.

The Disney Dream also has a great toddler splash pad, Nemo’s Reef , that I knew my younger daughter would love. On the other hand, the Disney Magic stopped in Grand Cayman, which is a place I’ve been longing to visit.

The Magic also offered an extra day at sea making it a 5-night cruise instead of the 4-night cruise on the Dream for basically the same price. In the end, I decided to book the 5-night cruise on the Disney Magic because I just couldn’t pass on its amazing itinerary!

Transportation to Disney Cruise Port

I was comfortable with flying into Orlando to sail on the Disney Dream because DCL makes cruising out of Port Canaveral so easy. Even with my two young kids in tow, the pre-cruise hotel stay and ground transportation in Orlando are both super convenient. The Hyatt is located right inside the Orlando International Airport, so you don’t even need to leave the premises.

Disney Cruise Line ground transportation also picks you up directly at the airport, and these motor coaches don’t require car seats. I was really nervous about sailing out of Miami on the Disney Magic because the ground transportation there seemed so much more complex.

Taxis and Ubers are readily available in Miami, but my six-year-old and one year old both needed car seats. In order to use a taxi or Uber, I knew I needed to either bring our own car seats or find a taxi that supplied its own. Both of those options seemed like major travel headaches to me.

I ultimately decided to book a hotel and ground transportation through Disney Cruise Line because it appeared to be the less stressful option. If you have older kids who do not need car seats, you could totally get by with a taxi during your trip. If your kids are young like mine, I definitely recommend the Disney cruise ground transfers !

Hotels near Disney Cruise Port in Miami

Disney had two options available for hotels the night before our cruise: EB Hotel near the airport and the Four Seasons Hotel in downtown Miami. Since the Four Seasons offered the easier option for transporting us to the cruise port, I went with it. We had never stayed at a Four Seasons before, and all I can say is WOW!

The hotel, staff, and amenities were all top-notch! You can read my full review (with lots of pictures) here- Disney Cruise Hotel in Miami . We also had never visited Miami, and I really liked the location of this hotel.

It is in the financial district, and everything around it seemed clean and safe. The morning of our cruise, we put our Disney Cruise Line luggage tags on our larger bags and set them by our hotel room door. The bellman at the Four Seasons came to our room at 9:30 to take our luggage down to the main floor of the hotel.

We kept a couple bags with us so that we would have access to some of our essential things during the day. These embarkation day bags held things like important documents, prescription medications, and other necessities. Our larger luggage wouldn’t be available again until later that evening on the ship!

Day 1 – Boarding in Miami

Our Disney cruise motor coach left the Four Seasons at around 11:10 on embarkation day, which is the first day of the cruise. The Port of Miami was only a few miles away from the hotel, but the drive took us at least 15 minutes due to traffic.

The weather in Miami was perfect, even for our December sail date. The high that day was supposed to be in the upper 70’s. I was prepared for the morning to be a bit cool, but this wasn’t the case at all. The sun was shining, and we were all comfortable in summer clothes.

Port of Miami

Our bus pulled up to the Disney Cruise Line terminal just before 11:30. (Note that we were not assigned a Port Arrival Time since we used DCL transportation.) It looked really crowded and crazy from the motor coach window.

Once we were off the bus, I realized that the port was really organized despite the swarms of people around. A porter took our bags from our bus driver, so we didn’t even have to handle them at the port. After thanking and tipping the porter, we walked a few steps to the main entrance of the terminal.

Security and Check-in Process

** Note that the boarding process for Disney Cruise Line has changed from my family’s experience below. You can find the updated procedures in my post about Disney Cruise embarkation day .

There was a line for security that backed up outside, but it moved swiftly. Much like the airport, the security at the cruise port asked us to put our carry on bags on the conveyor belt to go through the X-Ray machine.

We also had to remove all metal and electronic devices. We weren’t required to remove our shoes, though. Within five minutes, we were out of the security line and walking to the check-in desks at the Miami terminal.

We were handed a health form on the way to our check in line. I was kicking myself for forgetting to put a pen in my embarkation day bag. So, make sure to put a pen in your bag so you can fill out the form WHILE waiting in line.

The line moved really quickly though. Within five minutes, we were guided to a spot at the check in counter. Once at the counter, I handed over our identification documents and Port Arrival Form. I also filled out the super short health survey.

The employee behind the counter took a photo of my family and asked me to sign a couple forms. She then handed me our Key to the World cards and our lanyards. (If you have previously sailed with Disney Cruise Line, they give you lanyards to hold your Key cards.)

At check in, we were given a boarding card with our Key to the World cards. Initially our boarding group number was 2, but this number changed after I upgraded our stateroom at the port. I’ll explain more about upgrading below.

Since we ended up upgrading to Concierge Level, our Key to the World cards were changed from blue to gold in color. We were also given a new boarding number of 1 since Concierge guests are permitted to board the ship first.

DCL Personal Navigator

The cast member checking us in gave me the Voyage Navigator for our trip. This Personal Navigator served as a wealth of information, and I referred to it often. The stateroom hosts used to put the Navigator for the next day on your bed each night. Disney Cruise Line no longer does this. Instead, the information is readily available on the Disney Cruise Line App.

I still find the paper versions easier to read, so I tried to grab a copy at Guest Services each day. You do not have to wait in line to get a Navigator from Guest Services. They have them out on the counter for cruisers to freely grab.

Stateroom Upgrade

I had originally booked a Deluxe Inside Stateroom on the Disney Magic. The ship had staterooms with windows (aka portholes) available when I was booking, but they were a few hundred dollars more than the interior cabins. Since the square footage of the porthole rooms was the same as that in an inside stateroom, I decided it wasn’t worth it to spend hundreds of dollars just to get a window.

DCL had a lot of oceanview staterooms with verandahs available too; however, these rooms were over a thousand dollars more than my inside stateroom. Since we weren’t sure a verandah was worth that much to us, my husband and I agreed to stick with our inside room for the time being. We decided we would ask about an available stateroom with a verandah at the port on embarkation day.

Although upgrades aren’t always available when you check in at the terminal, it doesn’t hurt to ask. I knew that if a room with a verandah was available, it would be far cheaper than it had been to book it ahead of time. My hope was that a room with a verandah would be available for a few hundred dollars. Then, we would have our balcony without shoveling out a thousand dollars.

↓↓ Check Out My Etsy Shop ↓↓

We were also prepared to keep our inside stateroom. I didn’t want to get my hopes up, and I knew our chances of getting an upgrade weren’t going to be great. So, after the DCL cast member finished checking us in at the terminal in Miami, I asked if any stateroom upgrades were available. Surprisingly, she said that she thought there were and guided us to the supervisor’s desk next to the Concierge check in counter.

The supervisor at the counter informed us that she had a few Concierge Level staterooms available for an upgrade. She used a chart to guide her as to what our upgrade price would be. Since we had booked an inside stateroom, our price to upgrade to a Concierge room was more than that of someone who had booked a verandah room to begin with.

Our quote for the Concierge Level room was about half of what it would have cost me to upgrade my room prior to embarkation day. Initially, we declined because we weren’t sure we wanted to spend the extra money.

But then we decided that we would be getting our verandah PLUS all of the special perks that Concierge includes. These perks seemed really appealing since we had a one-year-old with us. So, we decided to accept the upgrade since we may never be so lucky as to sail Concierge with Disney Cruise Line again.

After the supervisor made new Key to the World cards for us, she informed us that we were able to board the ship. Rather than spending any time in the Miami terminal, we headed straight to the gangway to board the Disney Magic!

Afternoon Activities

After we upgraded to Concierge at the port, the supervisor handed us a letter with information about a special Concierge lunch. Instead of eating at Cabanas or on the pool deck like we usually do, we walked to Rapunzel’s Royal Table where we met with the Concierge Team.

This dining room is really beautiful with lanterns hanging from the ceiling. I was eager to eat dinner here, so we could watch the dinner show! As we were eating our lunch, one of the Concierge hosts came over to our table to introduce herself.

She asked if we had any special requests, and I mentioned that I wanted to borrow a stroller from Guest Services. The Concierge host assured me that she would bring a stroller to us right away, so there was no need to go to Guest Services. This was such a relief since the lines at Guest Services on embarkation day can be crazy!

Disney Magic Concierge Stateroom

Once we finished eating lunch in the dining room, we headed to our stateroom. Normally, your room isn’t ready until 1:30. However, one of the perks with Concierge is that your room is available immediately after boarding.

The entrances to the stateroom halls were blocked off with signs saying not to enter until 1:30, so I wasn’t really sure how to get to our room. Luckily our room host passed by, and I was able to ask him if it was okay to sneak under the rope.

He assured me that it was, and he even escorted us to our stateroom with a welcoming gift. I was very pleased with our stateroom as we had plenty of space for storage and for moving around. The verandah was perfect, and we were immediately so happy that we had upgraded.

Since we were cruising with a toddler who needed to take a nap, I stayed in our stateroom with her while my husband took our older daughter to the pool deck . The Disney Magic has several pools and water play areas for kids. The AquaDunk is one of the main water slides on the ship.

Because it has a height requirement of 48 inches, my daughter was too short to ride it this time. She did enjoy the Twist ‘n’ Spout slide, though, and rode it over and over again. In addition, Goofy’s Pool was one of her favorite places to spend time on the pool deck.

As our one-year-old slept, I unpacked the items from our embarkation bags. Our large suitcases arrived around this time, so I was able to start organizing our stateroom too. (You can find everything I pack in this post: Disney Cruise Line Packing List .)

Since we had upgraded to a more spacious room, I didn’t actually need all of the extra storage items I had packed. I was glad that I had our packing cubes; though, because they always make the process of unpacking and organizing so much easier!

If you don’t use packing cubes when vacationing, you are really missing out. They help us stay so organized, and I don’t know what we would do without them! You can see the packing cubes we use here! (Amazon Affiliate Link) It was around 3:30 by the time I finished unpacking, and the Muster Drill announcements had started.

Lifeboat Drill

The mandatory Guest Assembly Drill was scheduled for 4:00, but announcements about the drill started about half an hour before this. My husband and older daughter came back to the stateroom before the drill, so we could all walk down together.

We headed to our station, which was on Deck 4, about ten minutes before it was supposed to begin. Once we were on Deck 4, we could easily see each of the safety stations labeled.

Our Key to the World card showed that we were assigned to station “P”. Once we arrived there, a Disney cast member swiped our cards to check us in for the drill. He then asked us to line up shortest to tallest beside a family who was already there.

My toddler is obviously the shortest member of my family, but I was allowed to hold her throughout the entire drill. As the drill began, the cast member overseeing our station gave all the parents a heads up to cover the ears of our small kids. The alarm was really loud, but it didn’t last long. My kids didn’t seem to mind it. The captain came over the loud speaker with some safety instructions.

Then the cast members at each station provided more directions for what to do in case of an emergency, including how to properly put on your life vest. Note that life vests are stored inside your stateroom closet. You DO NOT need to take them to the drill with you.

Even though the safety drill isn’t the most fun part of your cruise, it only takes about 20 minutes. The cast members do a great job of trying to entertain you during the waiting too!

Sail-A-Wave Party

Once the Guest Assembly Drill concluded, we headed up to the pool deck to watch the Sail-A-Wave Party. Most of the other passengers on the ship were doing the same thing, so we just followed the crowds.

We like to use the stairs to get to the pool deck at this time because the elevators are always backed up. We chose to grab a spot against the balcony on Deck 10 to watch the party from above.

If you decide to watch on Deck 9, you may get to see some of the characters up close as they dance in the crowd at the end of the party. There were a lot of ships waiting to leave Port of Miami at the same time, so we didn’t really sail away at the end of the party.

We did get to watch some of the other ships sail by, and this was really cool. The Symphony of the Seas passed us and looked enormous! I’m hoping to sail on it soon!

Evening Activities

We walked down to our stateroom after the Sail-A-Wave Party so that we could change for dinner. On our last cruise, I was really cold at dinner and at the shows each night. So, I packed jeans and a cardigan to change into for dinner.

I didn’t find the Disney Magic to be cold; though, and I ended up not needing the cardigan. Since we had a verandah, we were able to watch our ship sail away from the shore as we freshened up for dinner.

Concierge Lounge

Once we were all ready, we walked up to the Concierge Lounge on Deck 10. The bartender in the lounge poured my husband and I each a glass of wine to take to dinner.

The lounge had small appetizers and desserts available as well. My kids really enjoyed the chocolate covered marshmallows because who doesn’t like eating treats before dinner while on vacation?!

Dining Requests

Dinner our first night was at Lumiere’s, which is an elegant French themed dining room that is inspired by Beauty and the Beast. We had the main dinner seating that was at 5:45. This dining time had originally been full when I booked our cruise, so I called before the cruise to ask to be added to a waiting list.

About 30 days before our trip, I logged on to the Disney Cruise Navigator App and saw that the earlier time was available. I was relieved we got into main dining because there’s no way my kids could handle eating during the second seating at 8:15.

In addition to my early dining time request, I had also called DCL before our trip to request a private table. It has been my experience that Disney Cruise Line will grant this request. Since we had upgraded to the Concierge Level, we were automatically assigned a table for just the four of us.

Lumiere’s Dining Room

Once we were seated, our assistant server came over to introduce himself and to take our drink orders. Our main server arrived shortly after to greet us and give us recommendations on what to order. The servers are usually really knowledgeable about what to order, so make sure you ask for their advice if you are unsure.

They are also really accommodating with any special requests you may have. My kids both love broccoli, and our servers were able to substitute it as a side each night at dinner. The servers bring out bread and drinks right away. They also bring the kids’ food out early so the little ones can get started on their meals.

Overall, dinner at Lumiere’s lasted about one hour and fifteen minutes. Once we finished dinner, my family and I explored the Disney Magic cruise ship and enjoyed some onboard fun.

Mickey’s Tree Lighting Magic

Since we were on a Merrytime Cruise, DCL had organized some special Christmas activities and entertainment. One of these was a tree lighting ceremony in the atrium at 7:30. We grabbed spots on the balcony to watch the show from above. Mickey’s Tree Lighting Magic began with live performers singing Christmas songs.

Then Mickey and friends made their way onto the stage in their Christmas apparel. At the end, there was a countdown before the ginormous tree in the atrium was lit with Christmas lights.

Onboard Shopping

We had some time to kill after the Tree Lighting Ceremony and before the evening entertainment started. Since my kids had received Disney gift cards as Christmas gifts from a couple of our relatives, we browsed around the stores for a bit. Inside the shops on the Disney Magic, you will find tons of themed merchandise.

The shops sell clothing, Christmas souvenirs, and toys just to name a few. If you make a purchase in one of the shops, the cast member behind the check out desk will swipe your Key to the World Card. Your purchase will then show up on your onboard account.

Magic, Balloons, and Comedy Show

Since we had had a jammed packed day, I decided to skip the live evening entertainment. The show this first night was a family comedy show, and I didn’t think my toddler would sit through it. So, I took her back to our stateroom and put her down for the night. My husband and older daughter stopped by the Concierge Lounge on their way to the show.

They were able to grab popcorn, Gummy Bears, and drinks to take with them to the theater. This was one of the perks of Concierge that we took full advantage of each night. The next morning, my six-year-old told me she loved the show. She thought the comedian, John Cassidy, was really funny. My husband also said it was really entertaining, so I am hoping I get to catch it on our next cruise!

Day 2 – Sea Day

Day 2 of our trip was a day at sea in the middle of the Caribbean. The stateroom hosts no longer put the paper versions of these Personal Navigators on your stateroom bed each night. Instead, you can use the official Disney Cruise Line Navigator App to find activity schedules and information. You can also grab a copy of the paper version at Guest Services like I did.

My one-year-old typically wakes up at around 5:30 AM, but I wanted my six-year-old to sleep in during our vacation. So, each morning I walked the jogging track on Deck 4 with my toddler. I made a habit of swinging by Guest Services on our stroll each morning to pick up the paper Navigator, which was just sitting out for guests to freely grab.

Morning Activities

As mentioned above, I borrowed a stroller from  Disney Cruise Line  for this trip. I had planned to visit Guest Services once onboard the ship to get a stroller. I believe they charge your account somewhere around $250 when you pick up the stroller. 

Then DCL takes off the charge when you return it on your last day. Disney Cruise Line provides the same type of stroller that I have rented numerous times at Walt Disney World: City Mini Baby Jogger. 

Although I had to fold up the stroller to get it through our stateroom door, the City Mini is super easy to collapse with one hand. It’s also really compact and easy to store in the stateroom closet. We had plenty of room under the stateroom bed to keep it there as well. 

My husband and I ended up purchasing our own City Mini Stroller because we love the size and convenience of it. You can see the  City Mini Baby Jogger Stroller we have here! (Amazon Affiliate Link) The City Mini also reclines so that your baby or toddler can nap more comfortably. I had hoped that the reclined seat and the morning stroll would help my one-year-old fall back to sleep on our morning strolls, but unfortunately this was never the case.

Quick Breakfast

After walking along the jogging path on Deck 4, my toddler and I headed up to Daisy’s De-lites on the Disney Magic pool deck. This quick service dining option opened at 6:30 each day, and it was a great spot to grab breakfast items and snacks. 

Daisy’s De-lites provided things like fresh fruit, yogurt, oatmeal, cereal, and pastries. My toddler and I sat at one of the tables on the pool deck to eat an early breakfast, and it was always so peaceful during this time!

After we ate, I walked over to the beverage station nearby to grab a couple cups of coffee to take down to our stateroom. Since we had a stroller with us, my toddler and I took the elevator down to our room. Even though our cabin was located fairly close to the stairwell and elevators, we never had an issue with noise.

Also, since we were up so early in the morning, the elevators were never busy during the daily stroll with my toddler. If you are trying to use an elevator during peak times like the Muster Drill, you will have to wait a while to ride.

My family and I typically use the stairs any time we don’t have a stroller to walk around the ship. Even if you need to go up or down several decks, one of my favorite  tips for first time Disney cruisers is to use the stairs because they are usually faster than waiting on an elevator.

Cabanas Buffet

Once back in the stateroom, my husband and I enjoyed our coffee on the verandah while our two kids played with the toys they had bought in one of the ship’s stores the previous night. Then, I changed the girls out of their pajamas so that we could head up to Cabanas for breakfast. 

Insider Tip- I saw lots of kids in pajamas throughout our cruise. My toddler wore her pj’s each morning on our walk and during morning snack time. She also wore them during the nightly shows. We arrived at Cabanas around 8:00 AM and washed our hands at the sanitizing station. Then I grabbed a table with the kids while my husband grabbed drinks and food for everyone. 

Cabanas truly has something for everyone. Both of my girls are picky eaters, but we were able to find lots of fruit and different styles of eggs for each of them. My husband eats vegan and gluten free foods only, and he was also able to find enough options for breakfast as well.

↓↓ Visit My Etsy Shop ↓↓

We all enjoyed our breakfast and then headed out just as Cabanas was starting to get busy. I made a note that a line had formed to wash hands and enter Cabanas at around 8:45 when we left. So, the earlier you go on a sea day the better!

Day at Sea Disney Cruise Activities

Even if you are sailing with a toddler or a baby, you should be able to find plenty of fun activities on a sea day. To read about our favorite things to do on a sea day, you can check out our post on the best Disney cruise activities for kids .

Frozen Meet and Greet

We had reservations for a  character meet and greet  with Anna and Elsa at 9:00 in Animator’s Palate. I signed up for this time during my online check-in for the cruise. Disney Cruise Line did not provide tickets for this event the way they used to. Once we arrived at the meet and greet, we just told the cast member our room number, and he checked that we were on his list. 

We stood in line for about 15 minutes before it was our turn. The cast member at the front of the line asked for our stateroom number for the photographer. They do this so they know which room to file your photos under in case you want to purchase them on board. 

Swimming Pools

After our meet and greet, we headed back to the room to change into our swimsuits. Before our trip, I had wondered if we would be able to swim in the mornings or if the December weather would feel too chilly. 

We lucked out because it was sunny and in the 70’s even in the morning! My husband took our one-year-old to Nephews’ Splash Zone because this is the only water play area for kids who are under 3 years old and in swim diapers. 

I went with our six year old to ride the Twist ‘n Spout waterslide. We stood in line for about 15-20 minutes, but my daughter loved the slide so she didn’t mind the wait. Then, we walked over to Goofy’s Pool to swim. Even though it was heated, this pool felt far too cold for me, so I sat on the side to watch. 

My six-year-old wasn’t fazed by the chilly water, and she enjoyed herself. After playing on the pool deck for a while, we grabbed a table and chairs for lunch. We ate at the quick service counters on the pool deck since they had so many options. Then, we all treated ourselves to soft serve ice cream after lunch!

Formal Night

We headed back to our stateroom after our fun-filled morning on the pool deck. I put our toddler down for a nap, and the rest of us enjoyed the view from our verandah. We were sailing passed (I think) Cuba, and it was really neat to see the mountainous terrain. 

My husband and I had a discussion about how much we enjoyed the verandah in our stateroom and how we would strive to book a cabin with a balcony from here on out. We really like having downtime in our stateroom, and the verandah made it so much more enjoyable!

Once our one-year-old woke up from her nap, we all took turns showering and got ready for our evening activities. This night was designated as an optional dress up night. We typically don’t wear formal attire on cruises, but I had packed my kids’ Christmas dresses for this trip.

I have to admit that I did feel a bit silly dressed up in wintery Christmas clothes when it was 85 degrees outside. Luckily my kids didn’t complain, and I got some cute photos of them by the holiday decorations on the ship! Once we finished taking photos around the ship, we headed to the Concierge Lounge on Deck 10. 

Each evening, the lounge hosted a happy hour where Concierge Level guests could grab small snacks and beverages for free. My two girls loved the appetizers and sweets that were offered. My husband and I enjoyed getting glasses of wine from the lounge to take to dinner with us. 

Dinner our second night was at Animator’s Palate. Just as had been our experience the first night, our servers were exceptional at dinner! My one-year-old lasts about half an hour at the dinner table, so she struggled a bit toward the end of the meal. Our servers were great at trying to entertain her, but I eventually had to take her out of the dining room to run around. 

Animator’s Palate has a really entertaining show with Sorcerer Mickey toward dessert time. So, my toddler and I walked back to the table just in time to watch the performance. Mickey’s presence plus dessert kept our her entertained until we had all finished our meals. 

Disney Cruise Shows (Twice Charmed)

We usually spend time meeting characters after dinner and before the nightly show. On this  Optional Dress Up  night, the characters were all dressed in their formal Christmas attire. The lines for characters seem to start forming about 10-15 minutes before the character is scheduled to appear. 

We are never in line that early, though. Typically we get in line five minutes before the meet and greet begins or even right after it starts. The lines move quickly, and you normally don’t wait longer than 15 minutes. The exception to this is the Santa Claus meet and greet, but I will get into that later in the trip report. 

After meeting a couple characters, we walked back up to the Concierge Lounge.  My older daughter grabbed popcorn, gummies, and bottled water to take to the evening show with her. 

My toddler and I skipped the show again because I wasn’t sure she would sit through Twice Charmed. She isn’t familiar with Cinderella or the songs in the show, so I didn’t trust her to sit nicely throughout the production. My six-year-old LOVED this show though! In fact, it was her favorite out of all the nightly entertainment on the cruise. 

I took our one-year-old back to our room to put her to bed since we had plans to go to the beach at Grand Cayman the following day. 

Day 3 – Grand Cayman and Pirate Night

We didn’t book a shore excursion in Grand Cayman because we planned to visit a beach on our own. The Concierge hosts suggested that we grab a taxi at the port and spend the day at Royal Palms. While we had an incredible time on the beautiful beach in Grand Cayman, our day didn’t really go as planned.

You can read our entire experience of visiting the beach on our Disney cruise to Grand Cayman here. In that post, we explain the tender process and describe the beaches in the Cayman Islands. We also include some super helpful tips on finding a taxi at the port, so you don’t make the same mistakes we did!

After spending the morning and early afternoon on the beach in Grand Cayman, we decided to head back to the ship. We ate lunch at Cabanas, and then I took our one year old to the room for a bath and nap. My husband and six-year-old spent a little time at the pool enjoying the water slide before coming down to the room too.

We were really grateful for our balcony again because we enjoyed sitting on it this afternoon in Grand Cayman. My six-year-old was exhausted from the beach and liked relaxing on the verandah with us.

Once our one year old woke from her nap, we all took time to get ready for Pirate Night. Our stateroom host had left Mickey pirate bandanas on our bed for us to wear on Pirate Night. My husband and I don’t typically dress up on Pirate Night other than the black and white outfits I pack.

For this trip, a friend of mine made my girls pirate Elsa and Anna dresses that were really cute. You will notice that some people go all-out in their pirate outfits, some are more low key, and some don’t dress up at all. So, no matter how you and your family choose to dress on Pirate Night, you won’t look out of place.

Pirate Night Dinner

Once we were dressed and ready for Pirate Night, we had time to meet a few characters in their special pirate gear. Then we walked up to the Concierge Lounge to grab our “free” glasses of wine for dinner. Our meal on this third night was at Animator’s Palate again.

We had seen the special Sorcerer Mickey show the previous night at Animator’s Palate, so on Pirate Night we had different entertainment. The servers came out to dance and sing in a pirate themed show toward the end of our meal. They also got the kids excited by letting them get up to dance around the dining room with them.

Pirate Show and Fireworks

Later in the night, the Disney Cruise Line crew members put on a pirate show on the pool deck. I was sound asleep by the time the show started, but my husband and older daughter went to watch. Basically the entertainment crew and characters dance and sing on the stage on the pool deck.

This isn’t the best photo from the show, but hopefully you get the gist. Notice that people bring glow sticks and glow jewelry to this show. The show then ends with a fireworks display that my daughter really enjoyed!

**Quick Tip- It is MUCH cheaper to buy your glow sticks before your cruise and pack them in your luggage rather than buying them on

More About Our Disney Cruise from Miami

You can read the remainder of our Disney Cruise from Miami trip report here – Disney Magic Cruise Reviews . That article follows my family and I on the remainder of our trip where we spend Day 4 enjoying Christmas activities at sea. Then, on Day 5, we visit Disney’s amazing private island in the Bahamas, Castaway Cay.

Shari is an experienced planner and organizer for Disney vacations, cruising, and U.S. travel. Her family vacation information, reviews, and tips provide insight for moms and dads everywhere. You can read more about her story, including her journey through breast cancer, in the about me page.

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Love this great report! We are sailing on the Magic in May. Did your DCL transfers cover your ride from the airport to the Four Seasons the day before your cruise? How did all of that work?

I’m so glad you enjoyed my DCL trip report! You must be so excited for your upcoming cruise on the Disney Magic. It’s a really great ship, and May is the perfect month for cruising! Our Disney ground transportation did include our ride from the airport to the Four Seasons the day before our cruise. I was a little nervous about whether or not a shuttle would actually be there to pick us up on time or not. Disney knows what they are doing though and the process went SO smoothly! DCL arranged a private SUV for my family of four. It included car seats for my girls. When we landed in Miami, I turned my phone back on while still on the plane. I was so relieved to see a text from the driver stating that he was at baggage claim waiting for us. I think he also included a selfie. We walked down to baggage claim, and the driver helped grab our luggage and drag it to the vehicle. I did tip the driver in addition to the amount we had paid through the cruise line. I go into more detail about how the entire Disney cruise transfer process works in this post if you’re interested. Have a great vacation!

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• CruiseMapper
• Cruise Ports
• Bahamas - Caribbean - Bermuda Cruise Ports

Miami (Florida)

Cruise port schedule, live map, terminals, news.

Region Bahamas - Caribbean - Bermuda

Local Time 2024-06-09 03:51

Port Miami cruise ship schedule shows timetable calendars of all arrival and departure dates by month. The port's schedule lists all ships (in links) with cruises going to or leaving from Miami, Florida. To see the full itineraries (ports of call dates and arrival / departure times) and their lowest rates – just follow the corresponding ship-link.

PortMiami and Port Everglades/Fort Lauderdale are the world's largest/busiest cruise ports and the USA's main turnaround/departure ports for roundtrip Caribbean voyages. Both seaports and their respective airports are relatively nearby to each other. PortMiami's area is sized 518 acres (0,8 mi2 / 2,1 km2). The city has the world's largest number of cruise company headquarters, including Carnival , RCI-Royal Caribbean International , MSC , NCL-Norwegian , Celebrity , Oceania .

Miami Metro is USA's 8th-most populous and 4th-largest, with population around 5,5 million. The city is a leader in international trade, commerce, finance, media, entertainment, arts. In 2010, it was ranked USA's 7th and world's 33rd in terms of human capital, business activities, information exchange, politics and culture. Nicknamed "Capital of Latin America", Miami is USA's largest city with Cuban-American citizens.

The city has USA's 3rd tallest skyline with over 300 skyscrapers. Downtown has USA's largest concentration of international banks, large national and multinational corporations. PortMiami is one of USA's fastest growing containership ports . It contributes annually with around USD 43 billion to the economy and supports over 334,000 jobs countrywide.

Miami cruise port

PortMiami (locode URMIA) is currently ranked the world's second-largest cruise port (after Port Canaveral).

The world's top-10 busiest cruise ports (by annual passengers numbers/stats 2023) are in Florida USA ( Port Canaveral/Orlando (4,07M), Miami (4,02M), Port Everglades/Fort Lauderdale ), Mexico ( Cozumel ), Bahamas ( Nassau ), China ( Shanghai ), Spain ( Barcelona ), Bahamas (Out Islands), Texas USA ( Galveston ), Italy ( Civitavecchia-Rome ).

Miami is also among the most fortunate ports where newest cruise ships make show-off visits and many schedule inaugural homeporting seasons. Port's facilities are among the most modern, providing easy processing and boarding. PortMiami serves 20+ cruise companies and 60+ different passenger ships.

On August 3, 2014, was opened Miami Port Tunnel. The tunnel is undersea (beneath Biscayne Bay), with length 4200 ft / 1300 m and consisting of 2 parallel tubes (1 in each direction). It connects MacArthur Causeway (Watson Island) with PortMiami (Dodge Island) removing the heavy traffic to the cruise port from downtown Miami.

In 2016, PortMiami handled nearly 4,98 million cruise passengers and also added new (MSC-exclusive) terminal for year-round homeporting. Also were started projects to enlarge MSC's cruise terminals (AA and AAA) and were added new passenger-boarding bridges.

For FY2017 (fiscal year/season 2016-2017 September 30) the cruise port reported a record year with over 5,3 million cruise passengers - the world's highest-ever number. In 2017 started works on "Terminal A" (completed in November 2018). Viking OCEAN made inaugural visits in November 2017 with Viking Sky (Nov 12) and Viking Sun (Nov 17). Among the Port's most famous newcomers in 2018 were Carnival Horizon, Norwegian Bliss, Symphony OTS. In 2019 here was homeported MSC Meraviglia .

For season 2017-2018, PortMiami expected 5,3+ million passengers (4,9 million in 2016). The 6-million pax threshold was reached during season 2018-2019. Discussions on long-term agreements are ongoing with NCLH and Carnival Corporation . 2017's growth came from RCI-Royal Caribbean (~350,000 more). The number grew further after RCI inaugurated "Terminal A" (and homeported Oasis-class liners) and MSC inaugurated "Terminal F" (for Meraviglia-class and Seaside-class liners).

In 2017 started discussions for turnaround operations by vessels of Virgin Voyages  and NCL-Norwegian . However, Carnival Cruise Line remained the Port’s largest customer (2+ million passengers in 2017).

Various studies on LNG bunkering were conducted, regarding whether these operations (LNG supply to berthed vessels) to be land or water-side. The port expects to receive its first LNG-powered cruise liner in 2022.

On May 4, 2018, from Barcelona to PortMiami were delivered 2x large-sized "Seaport Passenger Boarding Bridges". The tailor-made (fully assembled) bridges were for the renovated "Terminal F’". Each of these 2-ton walkways is 4-sectioned (telescopic) and has length 32 m (105 ft). The bridges were designed by Adelte (Spain) and custom-made for "Terminal F" - to serve large liners with LOA length over 300 m (984 ft).

In late-October 2019 was approved the agreement for Brightline Miami to be rebranded "Virgin Trains" and Virgin Group to build a train station (Virgin Trains PortMiami) at the cruise port. The new station serves high-speed trains and connects PortMiami directly with the USA's intercity railway system (via Aventura, Boca Raton, West Palm Beach ) to Orlando International Airport. Brightline plans to expand the railway to Tampa  and  Jacksonville .

On August 31, 2020, Miami-Dade County' commission authorized the issuance of up to USD 0,5 billion in special obligation bonds, of which USD 335 million was designated for PortMiami and the rest going toward development projects related to the County's general fund.

• The approval came as cruising out of US homeports remained banned through October 1, and all major cruise companies suspended departures through October 31.
• Before the Coronavirus crisis (2020) paralyzed the cruise shipping industry, the County agreed to pay USD 700 million toward 7 projects - 5 new cruise terminals and 2 cruise company headquarters. Five shipowners (Carnival Corporation, NCLH-Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, MSC, RCG-Royal Caribbean Group, Virgin Voyages) agreed to repay USD 5,8 billion over the next 20-62 years.
• The biggest part of the USD 335 million in bonds (USD 130 M) was allocated for the building of the Virgin Voyages Terminal.

On November 15, 2022, RCG-Royal Caribbean Group signed a 36-year lease agreement that includes developing and exclusive operation of PortMiami's Terminal G.

• By the deal, RCG will construct a new facility (exclusive passenger terminal for ships of RCI-Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises) and will also redevelop RCI's headquarters (at PortMiami) which lease was extended through 2072.
• By May 2020, RCI spent ~US$70 million to upgrade its headquarters prior to halting construction works to mitigate financial losses during the COVID crisis.
• By the new lease deal (2022), Miami-Dade is now financing the RCI headquarters' completion as well as Terminal G's construction. In turn, Royal Caribbean guarantees a minimum annual passenger movement ~600,000 (during Terminal G's reconstruction), 1,5 million (following the completion/scheduled for 2027) and 2,1 million passengers annually (from 2038 to 2063). RCI also agreed to repay the cost of finishing its headquarters via increased rent and to pay back up to 53% (US$172,5M) of Terminal G's redevelopment costs.
• Terminal G's lease includes 3x 7-year renewal options, while RCI's headquarters lease has 2x 5-year renewal options.
• The deal also provided for RCI's shared use of Berth 10 Terminal (scheduled for completion in October 2028) - together with MSC.
• The 2022-signed agreement replaced the expiring in 2033. Reportedly, the lease will generate ~US$2,5 billion (from Terminal G) and ~US$260 million (from RCI's headquarters) and will create ~12000 permanent jobs, including ~1000 additional positions with RCI (+50% over 2022's staff count).

In Miami is also headquartered CMI-Cruise Management International and its subsidiary CMI Leisure (smaller-sized and expedition cruise ship management company). Since 2022, CMI is owned by Anglo-Eastern (1974-founded company that manages 600+ vessels/crew recruitment and management, technical services).

Since January 2024, in Block 55 at Sawyer's Walk (premium retail shopping and residential area in Downtown Miami) is headquartered MSC Group (the world's second-largest container shipping company/after Maersk).

World's largest cruise ports

Based on 2016 passenger traffic numbers reported by CLIA, Miami cruise port was ranked world's largest (4,898 million pax). Follows the list of world's busiest cruise ports with annual shipping traffic over 1 million passengers.

• Miami FL (4,898 million)
• Port Everglades Fort Lauderdale FL (3,890 million)
• Port Canaveral Fl (3,686 million)
• Cozumel Mexico (3,637 million)
• Shanghai China (2,847 million)
• Barcelona Spain (2,683 million)
• Civitavecchia-Rome Italy (2,340 million)
• Nassau Bahamas (2,035 million)
• Canary Islands Spain (combined 1,981 million)
• Balearic Islands Spain (combined 1,957 million)
• USVI (combined 1,777 million)
• Galveston TX (1,730 million)
• Grand Cayman Island (1,712 million)
• Southampton UK (1,7 million)
• St Maarten Island (1,669 million)
• Jamaica (combined 1,655 million)
• Venice Italy (1,606 million)
• Marseille France (1,597 million)
• Sydney Australia (1,309 million)
• Naples Italy (1,306 million)
• New Orleans NOLA (1,070 million) - excluding USA river cruise passengers.

PortMiami statistics

PortMiami is a major US seaport located on Dodge Island (Biscayne Bay, Florida). It is ranked the world's largest passenger port (serving both cruise and ferry shipping traffic). The port is linked to Watson Island via PortMiami Tunnel (building cost USD 1 billion). Dodge Island combines 3 islands (Dodge, Lummus, Sam's) into one.

PortMiami has capacity to handle the world's biggest passenger ships and is homeport (turnaround port) for numerous large-sized vessels. However, port's prime shipping business are container ships , ranking it Florida's largest container cargo port and USA's 9th-largest. Annually, it handles 4+ million cruise ship tourists, around 7,4 million cargo tons and 1+ million TEU-containers.

Currently, PortMiami has 9 passenger terminals, 6 gantry crane-equipped wharves (total 9 gantry cranes serving containerized cargo), 7 Ro-Ro docks (serving ferries and car carriers), 4 reefer yards (for refrigerated containers), breakbulk warehouses. The port has 2 super post-Panamax gantry cranes (among the world's largest) with capacity to handle 22,000-TEU boxships.

In 1997 was started USD 250 million port redevelopment project for facility upgrades and expansion in order to accommodate the industry's demands. PortMiami Tunnel was built 2010-2014, linking (via SR 836) directly the seaport with USA's interstate highway system, thus bypassing downtown's congestion. By this project were also constructed new cruise terminals, roads, terminal parking garages, new lighting, landscaping, signage. Security Gates (opened in 2006) increased the port's processing rate for container trucks.

In 2007, the port served over 3,787 million cruise passengers. In 2010 were handled 4,33 million cruise passengers (1 in 7 in the world). In 2015 were handled nearly 4,9 million cruisers. For FY11 (fiscal year 2011), PortMiami reported an economic impact in Miami-Dade County of USD 18 billion, providing around 176,000 local jobs.

On December 9, 2018 (Sunday), the port reported its ultimate one-day record for cruise shipping traffic - 52,000 passengers. The list of berthed liners included Carnival Horizon , Carnival Magic , Disney Magic , MSC Divina , Norwegian Getaway , Oceania Riviera , Allure of the Seas , Empress of the Seas , and the high-speed catamaran San Gwann (FRS Caribbean - German company serving the ferry route Miami- Bimini Islands ).

Port Boulevard connects PortMiami with Downtown. This link is a causeway over the ICW (Intracoastal Waterway. ICW has length 3000 mi (4800 km) and runs along the USA's Atlantic (Eastern Seaboard) and Gulf of Mexico coasts (from Manasquan River NJ, around Gulf of Mexico to Brownsville TX). According to US federal law, ICW must be maintained at min-depth 3,7 m (12 ft). ICW is toll-free, but since 1978 commercial users (cargo barges) are charged a fuel tax, which is used for facilities maintenance.

PortMiami Deep Dredge project (budget USD 180 million, completed in 2016) increased the harbor's max draft to 15 m (48 ft) allowing access to Super Post Panamax boxships after the Panama Canal expansion completion.

In March 2018, NCLH unveiled details on NCL's exclusive new Cruise Terminal B scheduled for completion in 2019 (read more in the port's "Terminal" section).

In 2018, PortMiami implemented the NOAA agency's (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) PORTS system (Physical Oceanographic Real-Time System). The system is a public-private partnership for reducing in-port ship accidents (by over 50%) and transit delays for commercial shipping traffic. It also improves hazardous spill response. PortMiami's annual benefit from the PORTS system was estimated at around USD 300 million. The system serves a total of 31 US seaports, supporting 85% of the USA's cargo shipping traffic. PORTS provides real-time maritime data to vessel operators and harbor pilots, including information on currents (in and around port), water levels, waves, water salinity, bridge clearances (air gaps), visibility, winds (speed and direction), air and water temperatures.

On May 10, 2018, was officially opened Carnival's "Fleet Operations Center". The 35,000 ft2 facility allows simultaneous real-time monitoring of all ships in the fleet. The main feature is its 74 ft (22,5 m) long video wall composed of 57x LED screens. The data processed here includes itinerary information, current position, weather conditions, logistics, environmental status, guest operations. The interactive world map shows also the current locations of all Carnival Corporation ships (all brands). The center is staffed 24 / 7. The Corporation also owns similar monitoring centers in Seattle and Hamburg.

FY2018 (Sept 2017-Sept 2018) was another (4th consecutive) record year, with 5,8% growth in containerized cargo volumes (total 1,084 million TEUs) and 4,7% increase in cruise shipping (total 5,592 million passengers). Cargo shipping growth was attributed to the seaport's USD 1 billion investments in infrastructure improvements that allowed handling of Post-Panamax ships (with min draft 12 m / 40 ft). In 2018, the port handled over 250 such vessels, following a deep dredging project and the installation of Super Post-Panamax gantry cranes. Cruise shipping growth was attributed to expanded business opportunities (adding 3 new cruise companies - Viking Ocean, Seabourn, Victory Cruise Lines), extended homeport seasons and homeporting larger passenger liners.

In early January 2019, MSC signed with Miami-Dade County a letter of intent for expanding the company's PortMiami operations. The project's approval was received on Sept 19, 2019. By this project (completed in November 2023) MSC increased its annual capacity by building two (exclusive) cruise terminals (AA, AAA). The project included design, construction and management of the buildings (pax capacity 7000/28000 daily movements), berths (2 mega-liners), terminal parking garages, administrative offices, storage facilities plus infrastructure. MSC planned to homeport here several ships, including of the WORLD class (fleet's largest).

FY2019 (Sept 2018-Sept 2019) was again record-breaking for both container shipping (+3,4 % increase, to 1,12 million TEUs) and cruise shipping (+22% increase, to 6,824 million passengers). In 2019 were signed terminal development projects with Carnival Corporation, MSC, NCLH-Norwegian, Virgin UK, CMA-CGM (for Terminal Link Miami). The port generated ~USD 7,8 billion (economic impact) and supported ~27,500 South Florida jobs.

In FY2019, the cruise port handled 6,823816 million passengers, providing 27500 jobs and contributing ~USD 7,8 billion to the state's economy.

In February 2021, Miami-Dade County signed a deal with FPL-Florida Power & Light Company (subsidiary of NextEra Energy Inc) and 6 major cruise companies (Carnival Corporation, RCG-Royal Caribbean Group, MSC, NCLH-Norwegian, DCL-Disney, Virgin) for funding the Shore Power Pilot Program ( shoreside power capabilities at cruise berths). In May, the program received USD 2 million funding by DERA Program (Diesel Emissions Reduction Act).

In February 2023  was subcontracted PowerCon AS (Hadsund Denmark-based engineering and manufacturing company specializing in electrical power conversions) to deliver 5x shore power systems for cruise vessels. For this particular project was established the subsidiary PoweCon USA. The cruise shore-power facilities are to be installed at four PortMiami cruise terminals - Terminal A (RCI-Royal Caribbean International), Terminal B (NCL-Norwegian and MSC), Terminal F (CCL-Carnival), and Terminal V (Virgin Voyages). When completed (2023-Q4), the combined shore-power system will be the world's largest.

April 9, 2023, was PortMiami's record-breaking day when were handled a total of 67594 tourists visiting on 8 different ships (Carnival Celebration, Carnival Horizon, Explorer of the Seas, MSC Seascape, Norwegian Encore, Oasis of the Seas, Seabourn Ovation, Scarlet Lady).

FY2023 (October 1st, 2022, through September 30th, 2023) became PortMiami's record year for cruise shipping, with handled a total of 7,299294 million passengers (~7% increase over FY2019). In 2023, PortMiami contributed USD 61,4 billion from economic activity (~3,9% of Florida's US$1,6T GDP), USD 2,2 billion from taxes (state and local, including US$1,6B from Port users) and supported a total of 340,078 jobs (including 29,423 direct local).

Cruise itineraries to and from Miami Florida

Follows a list of destinations visited by ships leaving out of Miami:

• World Cruises - around the world voyages from Miami are offered in January, as well as shorter itinerary segments part of the main round-trip itinerary.
• South America itineraries from Miami are operated by luxury lines or by budget lines ships on relocation routes to Brazil ( Santos or Rio de Janeiro ) or Argentina ( Buenos Aires ). Round-trip itineraries usually visit ports in the Southern Caribbean, Brazil (often the Amazon River region), then go back to Florida.
• Bahamas itineraries from Miami visit Nassau (New Providence Island) and Freeport (Grand Bahama Island) , often combined with Florida ports (mainly Key West ). Major lines also include exclusive stops at their Bahamian private islands. These are Coco Cay (Royal Caribbean) , Half Moon Cay (Carnival, Holland America) , Princess Cays (Princess) , Castaway Cay (Disney) , Great Stirrup Cay (NCL Norwegian) .
• Short-break (3-day) cruises to Bahamas stop in Nassau. Some 3-day and most 4-day itineraries additionally include a private island stop, while 5-day itineraries add Freeport.
• Short-break (4-day) roundtrips to Mexico stop in Key West and Cozumel .
• 7-day Western Caribbean itineraries visit ports in Honduras, Belize, Mexico, also Grand Cayman Island (George Town) and Jamaica.
• 7-day Eastern Caribbean itineraries visit ports in BVI, USVI, Dutch Antilles, also Puerto Rico, Bahamas (Nassau) and the lines private islands.
• B2B (back-to-back) cruises combine two 7-day Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries into a 14-day roundtrip itinerary.
• 8-day Southern Caribbean itineraries visit Grand Turk Island , Dominican Republic, Aruba (Oranjestad) , Curacao (Willemstad) .
• Panama Canal transits  between Miami and California ports ( Los Angeles , San Diego , San Francisco ) are offered with one-way itineraries (up to 16 days in length). They include transition through Panama Canal and usually visit ports in Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Guatemala and Mexico (Mexican Riviera).

Seasonal ship relocations (RepositionCruises.com) include Panama Canal transits from Florida to Alaska in late Spring. The itineraries end either in California ports or in the turnaround ports for Alaskan roundtrip from Vancouver BC or Seattle WA . The reverse routes (Alaska to Florida) are in early Fall.

Transatlantic crossings from Florida to Europe are offered in Spring. Relocation routes from Miami usually include the Canary Islands and Mediterranean ports, and often Bermuda (stopping at King's Wharf ). The longest relocation itineraries end in Baltic Sea turnaround ports ( Amsterdam , Copenhagen , Hamburg ).

Transatlantic crossings from Europe to Florida usually depart from the UK (Southampton, Dover, Harwich) or Mediterranean (Barcelona, Civitavecchia-Rome, Piraeus-Athens) and often stop in Bermuda (Kings Wharf).

Miami cruise terminal

Port Miami has been the "Cruise Capital of the World" and also "Cargo Gateway of the Americas" for many years. It kept that title for more than two decades and accommodated world's biggest cruise ships of all major passenger shipping companies. PortMiami lost the title in late-2000 to Port Everglades .

The port is situated in Biscayne Bay, Miami, FL on Dodge Island. There the Sam's Islands, the Lummus and the Dodge (famous historic islands) combine in one. The Port of Miami is related to four important projects &ndash: the Panama Canal expansion, the Port of Miami Tunnel, the bridge and rail line restoration and the Port of Miami Deep Dredge Project. The ship schedule offers voyages all the year. The Miami International Airport is 8 mi/13 km away, the Fort Lauderdale International Airport - 25 mi/40 km.

Port Miami has 9 terminals. Located at the Dodge Island north part are terminals B/C, D, E , F, G, on the west is terminal H (V) and on the south – terminal J. The most modern cruise terminals are D and E. They started to operate in 2007 and host mega-liners. The luxury market is operated by cruise terminal J - facility made to look like a boutique. All passenger terminals offer cafes, check-in, shops, bars and cab ranks. Multi-Agency Facility is available at terminals D and E.

Miami cruise terminals B, C, D, E, F, G, H, J

• port address - "1741,1751 Africa Way, Dodge Island, Miami Florida 33132"
• location (on Dodge Island) - 8 mi / 13 km (25-min drive distance) from Miami International Airport, 25 mi / 40 km (45 min drive distance) from Fort Lauderdale International Airport
• Port entrance is via Biscayne Blvd (Port Bridge).
• Terminal address - "zzz Cruise Boulevard, Port of Miami, Miami, FL 33132"
• In the above address replace "zzz" with the corresponding address (by terminal) listed below:
• (new) "Terminal A" (address "1015 North") - here dock Royal Caribbean ships only. Berth length is 1300 ft (396 m).
• Terminal B (address "1751 North") - here dock NCLH-Norwegian ships only
• Terminal C (address "1741 North")
• Terminal D (address "1435 North") - here dock Carnival ships only.
• Terminal E (address "1265 North") - here dock Carnival ships only.
• Terminal F (address "1103 North")
• Terminal G (address "909/1055 North") - here dock Royal Caribbean ships only (berth length 1000 ft / 305 m)
• (west, Bimini Tent) Terminal H (address "897 South") - for Resorts World Bimini (Bimini SuperFast).
• Terminal J (address "1120 Caribbean Way") Terminal J is primarily for docking luxury cruise ships from the fleets of Azamara, Crystal, Oceania, Regent. This terminal underwent a USD 3 million refurbishment which upgraded the furniture, more lounge seating was added, along with new check-in counters.

Terminals D and E are the newest (both open in 2007) and can berth the world's largest cruise ships with capacity up to 5000 passengers. Their buildings are 3-story facilities (sized 105,000 ft2 / 9750 m2. Each terminal has a VIP lounge, separate security screening facility (embarkation), airline counters, conveyor baggage system.

(expanded) MSC Terminal F

In December 2016 started construction works for renovating and expanding "Terminal F" to be able to homeport MSC Seaside in December 2017.

Miami-Dade funded the USD 38 million reconstruction project, which increased the terminal's capacity up to 6000 passengers. MSC Seaside has max capacity of 5179 passengers. Planned terminal enhancements included an expanded waiting area (1500 seats), larger VIP waiting area (exclusive lounge for "MSC Yacht Club" VIP passengers), new "group passengers" dedicated lounge, improved baggage-claim area, 60 ticket counters, also implementing the latest technology for faster passenger embarkation/debarkation process.

The 2-story terminal covers a total area of 3557 m2 (38280 ft2). The new terminal was officially opened/inaugurated on December 7, 2017, MSC Seaside's scheduled dock in PortMiami was on December 21, 2017.

On May 4, 2018, from Barcelona were delivered two large passenger boarding bridges. Tailor-made for "Terminal F’", each bridge is 2-ton and 4-sectioned (telescopic), with length 32 m (105 ft). They serve ships with LOA length over 300 m (984 ft).

(NEW) Carnival Terminal F

In September 2019, CCL-Carnival Cruise Line received approval for major expansion and renovation of "Terminal F". The upgraded (471000-ft2 / 43760-m2 sized) facility can handle the Excel-class vessel Carnival Celebration (homeported since November 2022).

The 2019-signed Carnival-PortMiami agreement included the company's commitment to homeport at Terminal F ships for 20 years, with the option of two additional 7-year lease extensions.

Carnival Terminal F's renovations officially started on January 29, 2021 (with the groundbreaking ceremony) and are scheduled for completion by October 2022. Terminal F's groundbreaking was attended by Christine Duffy (CCL's President) and Daniella Levine Cava (Miami-Dade Mayor), along with construction companies representatives and county commissioners.

Terminal F is PortMiami's 3rd cruise terminal dedicated to Carnival ships as well as currently the largest in North America.

(NEW) MSC Cruise Terminal (AA, AAA)

In July 2018, Miami-Dade County and MSC signed an agreement for extended preferential berthing rights and MoU for building a new "Cruise Terminal AAA" at PortMiami (company's exclusive homeport in the USA).

The new agreement extended the old (Saturdays) preferential berthing rights to Sundays as well.

MSC Terminal AAA (completed in October 2022) has capacity to handle MSC WORLD-Class liners (fleet's ever-largest, with passenger capacity 7000).

The 2018-signed MoU agreement received approval from Miami-Dade's Commissioners on April 9, 2019 and the deal was officially signed on September 19, 2019. MSC designed and started construction works on a large building (to serve its two cruise terminals - AA, AAA) plus two new berths. For the terminal's design was contracted Arquitectonica (global architecture, landscape and interior design company).

PortMiami's MSC terminals AA and AAA can serve 2 turnarounds/homeported ships simultaneously and have max capacity 28000 passengers daily.

On July 8, 2021, MSC and Fincantieri signed a contract for the construction of PortMiami's newest MSC Cruise Terminal. The project (valued ~EUR 350 million/~USD 414M) was signed by Pierfrancesco Vago (MSC) and Giuseppe Bono (Fincantieri).

The new MSC Terminal can handle three large vessels simultaneously (max daily passenger capacity 36000) and is fitted with shorepower connectivity .

The 4-story building houses office areas and has multi-level parking (min capacity 2400 vehicles), 4 passenger boarding decks, a new road connection, two new docks (berths with total length 750 m / 2460 ft) plus a 3rd berth (built/financed by Miami-Dade County).

The new facility was designed by Arquitectonica and built by Fincantieri Infrastructure. It is adjacent to Royal Caribbean's Terminal A. Construction works started on March 10, 2022, with scheduled completion and inauguration in December 2023.

Starting in 2025, MSC World America will be also homeported at the new terminal.

(NEW) Royal Caribbean Miami Terminal A

In September 2015, the world's second-largest cruise ship company Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd/RCCL announced its plans to build a US$100 million terminal at PortMiami.

In June 2016, PortMiami leased 10 acres (0,04 km2) of land to RCCL to build and exclusively operate a dedicated terminal. Here are also homeported two of RCI's largest liners - Allure of the Seas and Symphony of the Seas .

The new "Terminal A" facility is sized 170,000 ft2 (15,800 m2) and is able to handle the world's largest passenger ships of the OASIS-class. According to the MoU (memorandum of understanding) between Royal Caribbean and Miami-Dade County, the Terminal's completion date was July 31, 2018. By the deal, RCCL leased the land and financed the whole project. RCCL was responsible for the Terminal's design and construction of the facilities (including parking garages with combined capacity 1000 vehicles).

The plans for the new Royal Caribbean terminal were approved by Miami's Board of County Commissioners on July 7, 2016. Under the agreement, RCCL fully financed the construction, except US$15M that PortMiami paid for infrastructure/road works.

Annually, Royal Caribbean pays Miami-Dade County US$7,5M in rent.

The project's value was estimated at USD 247 million for PortMiami - after taking into consideration up-front costs and annual rent for current cargo shipping purposes. For comparison, the Port's annual revenues are US$1,2M (from cargo activities) and US$9,5M (from cruise shipping).

Royal Caribbean is leasing the land for an initial 20-year period (until 2048) at base rent US$9,5 million per year (annual increase 1,5%). In addition to the base rent, Miami-Dade County receives US$5,50 per cruise passenger in excess of 1,55 million pax.

The new terminal building (nicknamed 'Crown of Miami') serves exclusively RCCL/RCG-Royal Caribbean Group-owned ships.

As of 2016, PortMiami handled ~750,000 Royal Caribbean passengers (per year) or ~15% of the Port's entire cruise traffic. The new terminal generates at least 1,8 million cruisers (or ~30% of the projected traffic) with estimated economic impact ~USD 0,5 billion. The facility generated ~4000 new local jobs.

Construction works started on March 8, 2017. RCCL later added to the project another building (named "Innovation Lab") that serves as the corporation's headquarters. Innovation Lab is sized 1860 m2 (20,000 ft2) and also hosts the company's ship design studio.

"Terminal A" was officially inaugurated on November 2, 2018. The opening ceremony was attended by Richard Fain (RCCL's CEO), Michael Bayley (RCI's CEO), Carlos Gimenez (Miami City Mayor), and Rebecca Sosa (Port Commissioner).

Until 2018, RCI represented annual capacity 0,8 million passengers (~15% of the Port's overall traffic). With the new terminal, this capacity was expected to increase to ~2 million.

(NEW) NCL-Norwegian Cruise Terminal B

On May 2, 2017, was announced that Miami-Dade County commissioners approved the agreement with NCLH/Norwegian Cruise Line Holding for a new terminal at PortMiami.

The facility has berthing capacity of two vessels (simultaneously), having 2 berths for large-sized vessels (up to 5000 passengers each). The facility was inaugurated in February 2020, with the arrival of Norwegian Encore (homeported here for winter 2019-2020 season).

NCL terminal's construction officially started on April 26, 2018 (ground-breaking ceremony). The project was officially approved on April 10th, and works started on May 1st, with planned completion in Fall 2019.

The new Terminal B's cost was estimated at ~USD 100 million. The facility incorporates PortMiami's existing terminals B and C into a single/new "Terminal B". 

Miami-Dade shares the county's parking and marketing revenues. The expected numbers for fiscal 2018 were ~US$180,000 (parking) and US$210,000 (marketing).

NCLH's new terminal was expected to generate ~US$24 million in gross revenue (starting FY2018), with an estimated increase of 3% each year. By the April 2018-signed agreement, NCLH guarantees Miami-Dade a minimum of 1,3 million passengers annually. The deal created ~160 new full-time jobs.

By the agreement, NCLH received preferential berthing rights at the new Terminal B. This means priority docking of vessels from the fleets of NCL , Oceania  and RSSC-Regent . The required minimum number of ship calls (per fiscal year) is 45, which is 15 more than the previous agreement.

The building's design is inspired by nautilus (marine mollusks of the cephalopod family Nautilidae). It features a spiraled, multi-level facade and open-floor interior.

The building is sized approx 166,500 ft2 (15,500 m2) and implements all modern technologies that support faster and more efficient passenger processing, as well as expedited security screening and luggage check-in.

The new Terminal B has a dedicated waiting hall, separate bar lounge, service area, new parking garage, valet parking area (accessing the building directly).

(NEW) Virgin Voyages "Terminal V"

On November 28, 2018, Richard Branson (Virgin Group's Founder) and Tom McAlpin ( Virgin Voyages ' President and CEO) officially announced the plans for a new/exclusive cruise terminal in PortMiami.

"Virgin Voyages Terminal" is a 3-story building (sized 100,000 ft2 / 9300 m2) located on PortMiami's northwestern side (address "718 N Cruise Blvd"). Approval for the project was given on September 20, 2019, with a subsequent berthing agreement deal.

Construction works started in October 2019, with scheduled completion in November 2021. The USD 150 million (~EUR 137 million) facility was officially renamed from "Terminal H" to "Terminal V". Virgin Voyages has brand's name on a for-profit train connecting Miami with West Palm Beach (via Aventura and Boca Raton). Virgin's cruise operations from PortMiami were planned to start in April 2020 with Scarlet Lady .

In late-October 2019 was approved the agreement for Brightline Miami to be rebranded "Virgin Trains" and Virgin Group to build a train station (Virgin Trains PortMiami) at the cruise port. The new station serves high-speed trains and connects PortMiami directly with the USA's intercity railway system and Orlando International Airport. Construction works on Virgin Trains PortMiami are scheduled for completion in 2022.

PortMiami's "Terminal V" was officially opened/inaugurated on February 13, 2022. The ceremony was attended by Richard Branson, Tom McAlpin and Daniella Levine Cava (Miami-Dade County Mayor).

Cruise ship terminal directions and parking

• From North - take I-95 South, drive eastbound I-395 (Miami Beach). Continue driving on I-395 East (MacArthur Causeway). The entrance of Port Miami Tunnel (Road 887) is on the left. Follow the signs to your Cruise Terminal.
• From North (via Downtown Miami / Port Bridge) - take I-95 South. Exit 3B-Bayside. Drive south to Northeast 5th Street, turn left. 5th Str leads onto PortMiami Bridge. Continue over the bridge and follow the signs to your terminal.
• From South - take SR-826 North to SR-836 East. Drive eastbound on SR-836 to I-395 East (Miami Beach). Continue driving on I-395 East (MacArthur Causeway). The entrance of Port Miami Tunnel is on the left. Follow the signs to your Cruise Terminal. You can also take I-95 North and drive eastbound I-395 (Miami Beach).
• From South (via Downtown Miami / Port Bridge) - take I-95 North. Exit at Northwest 2nd Street. Drive straight to NW 5th Street, make a right. 5th Str leads onto PortMiami Bridge. Continue over the bridge and follow the signs to your terminal.
• From Miami Beach - take I-395 (MacArthur Causeway), drive westbound, exit on Biscayne Blvd ramp and make U-turn on North Bayshore Drive to enter MacArthur Causeway eastbound. Then continue on I-395 East (MacArthur Causeway).
• Parking rates (subject to change) - USD 20.00 per day. All parking lots are outdoor and located in front their corresponding terminals. Special arrangements are offered for cruise passengers with disabilities.

Miami port, besides its 9 cruise terminals also has facilities to handle cargo ships (bulk carriers and container vessels) and dry dock facilities for marine vessel refurbishments and repairs.

• UN-LOCODE (United Nations location code) - USMIA
• eight dedicated cruise terminals
• supported by excellent road, rail and air infrastructure
• deep water channel - North Ship Channel has 2 turning basins - west (Fisher Island) and east (Main).
• deep water berths
• sheltered harbor area
• access unrestricted by tides
• no restrictions on length and GT tonnage of cruise ships
• The cruise port is accessible the whole year round – 24/7, 365 days a tear.
• Cruise ships usually arrive in Miami in early morning (7 or 8 am) and depart from Miami in late afternoon (at 4, 4:30 or 5 pm) and in the evenings (at 7 pm).

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Miami - user reviews and comments

DCL Guide Disembarkation Miami and Port Canaveral

Last Updated on February 6, 2020

There are some important steps that should be taken in order to have an enjoyable and stress-free Disney Cruise Line disembarkation in Port Canaveral.

Part of that planning includes, how you are going to leave the cruise after your holiday is over, foreshadowing the end to fun sucks, but is super important.

Here we will detail a well-planned disembarkation process for your Disney Cruise vacation.

Making Debarkation Day Stressless

On the last full day of your cruise, there will be a video showing on one of the TV channels that spells out (in major detail) the disembarkation process.

In this video, the cruise director details everything you need to know.  They play this on a loop, all day for your convenience, so you will definitely be able to find the information that interests you.

Choose a Flight Time That’s Right for You

The last piece of the puzzle in making Debarkation Day go smoothly is your travel home.  For passengers that are flying home that day, Disney Cruise Line recommends that you not book a flight earlier than 11:30 am.  This will give you enough time to exit the ship, clear customs and make your way to the airport.

Because there are other guests boarding soon after you, and your fellow passengers debark, Disney wants everyone off as soon as possible so linger onboard is not an option. Don’t count on last-minute photo Ops, as it is a busy time for the ship.

Remember many airlines won’t allow you to check in until 4 hours (sometimes even 2 hours) before your flight departure time. Plan accordingly.

Disembarkation Information Letter

The night before you disembark is typically Pirate night onboard Disney Cruise Line ships. This is when your Stateroom Attendant will bring your disembarkation information letter. This is personalized to your holiday; including luggage tags, Magical Express information and anything else you will need to know in order to have a smooth transition from the ship.

Character Luggage Tags

Along with your disembarkation information letter, you will receive a number of character luggage tags. These are to be placed on the luggage you place outside of your door the night before disembarkation. Your luggage will be taken away around 10 pm and you will not see it again until the next morning once you have left the ship.

It is imperative that you remember which character, and colour , you are. Once you have disembarked, you will be directed to the cruise terminal building which will have large signs. Find your character and colour, and you will soon find your luggage.

Onboard Airline Check-in Debarkation Information / Airline Boarding Passes / Airline Luggage Tags (US Only)

With Disney Cruise Line’s onboard airline check-in program you can have your boarding passes printed for you on the ship and your checked luggage picked up from your stateroom, not to be seen again until you reach your destination airport. This is a complimentary service for eligible travellers.

Important Items of Note:

General requirements:.

• Be prepared for possible airline baggage fees which vary by carrier. Any applicable airline baggage fees will be added direct`ly to your shipboard account .
• Each piece of luggage can weigh no more than 50 lbs. (23 Kg.)
• You must have purchased DCL Ground Transporation.
• This is only for those disembarking in Port Canaveral or Miami after the cruise.
• Disney Cruise Line asks that you print the Onboard Airline Check-In form from the Disney Cruise Line site and present it during check-in.

Port Canaveral:

• Your flight must depart from Orlando International Airport (MCO) on the same day of disembarkation after 11:25 AM.
• You must be flying with one of these participating airlines: Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, JetBlue, or United Airlines (Domestic Destinations Only).
• Your flight must depart from Miami International Airport on the same day of disembarkation after 11:30 AM.
• There are weight and quantity restrictions on your luggage and fees will be charged to your onboard account
• You must be flying with one of these participating airlines: American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, or United Airlines (Domestic Destinations Only).

Avoid lines at Shutters and Guest Services

On the last night of your cruise, everyone will queue to look through their photos at the onboard photo service Shutters lines may be quite long. If at all possible, take care of this earlier in the day. 

Attend the first See Ya’ Real Soon party

It’s a neat chance to get one last photo with the characters, as well as enjoy a farewell wave from all the characters onboard.  Often (but not always), two of these events are offered – one at 4:30 pm and one at 10:15 pm.  If you have the choice, attend the 4:30 show.  In our experience, it will be much less crowded, because people are just getting back on board from the day or still in their staterooms getting ready for dinner.

You have 3 choices with your luggage.

Express Walk Off

The first is to carry ALL of your luggage off the ship yourself, which DCL calls “Express Walk Off” .  If you do this, you do not need to use the character luggage tags that were left in your room.

Luggage Pickup in the Cruise Terminal

The second choice is what you need to do if you wish to claim your luggage in the cruise terminal building the next morning.  To do this you must put your luggage in the hallway, right outside your room door, no later than 10:00 PM on the last night of your cruise.  Be sure to put the character luggage tags on before you do this.  We always leave 2 carry -on bags with us so that we can put our toiletries and pyjamas in them the next morning. Also, don’t forget to leave a change of clothes out to wear the next day so that you don’t have to wear your pyjamas off the ship.

Onboard Airline Check-in

The third choice is what you need to do if you are participating in onboard airline check-in (and thus taking DCL transfers to the airport).  You need to put the airline luggage tags on your bags and put your luggage in the hallway, right outside your room door, no later than 10:00 PM on the last night.  You will not see them again until you get to your home airport.  You already have your boarding passes, so when you get to the airport the next morning, all you have to do is get off the bus and walk straight to security.

Debarkation Breakfast

You have 2 choices for breakfast unless you are concierge , and then you have 3.  

Main Dining Room

Your first option is to go to the main dining room at your assigned time and be served by your servers one last time.  If you have early dining, your breakfast will be about 6:45.  If you have late dining, it will be about 8:00. You will go to the same restaurant where you dined the night before on the final night of your cruise.  

If you do this, they will ask you not to leave any luggage in your room when you leave for breakfast so that your stateroom host can start cleaning your room ASAP. This means that you will have to bring your carry-ons with you if you set your luggage out the night before, or all of your luggage if you plan to do Express Walk Off.  There will be an area outside of the restaurant where everyone places their luggage while dining.

Buffet Restaurant Cabanas

Your second choice is to go to the buffet restaurant, Cabanas, for breakfast.

Order Room Service | Sailing Concierge ONLY

If you are sailing concierge, you have a third option .  You can order room service, but you will only be able to get cold items (fruit, cereal, pastries, etc).  All other mornings you can order hot items like pancakes, waffles, bacon, omelets, french toast, etc. but not on the final morning.  There will also be light breakfast offerings in the concierge lounge.

Important Timings

10:00 PM  the night before disembarking – all luggage must be in hallway unless you want to carry it off the ship.

6:45 AM  – Your breakfast time in the main dining room if you have early dining.

7:00 AM  – Buffet restaurant on the pool deck opens.

7:00-7:45 AM  – the most likely time range that the ship will be cleared by customs and an announcement will be made that those doing Express Walk Off may leave the ship.  It could be later than this but not likely.

8:00 AM  – You and your stuff must be out of your stateroom.

8:00 AM  – Your breakfast time in the main dining room if you have late dining.

9:00 AM  – If you are still on the ship, crew members will begin asking you nicely to leave.

Leaving the Ship

Your room key will be scanned one last time and there will be boxes as you leave for you to drop your comment cards into.  You will enter the terminal and go down an escalator into the luggage room.  

If you put your luggage out the night before and need to get it, you need to remember which character was on your luggage tags.  The room is very large and has sections labelled with a sign for each character.

Go to that section and look for your luggage.  They try to have all of your bags together in one spot so it should be quick and easy to locate all of your bags.  There will be porters available with carts to help you with your luggage if you need them. Once you have all of your luggage, you (and your porter if you use one) will proceed to the customs line. 

This is a good time to make sure you have a little bit of cash left. Don’t forget to tip your Porter accordingly.

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Parking and Port Information

Port canaveral.

DCL Terminal Parking info Source:  http://disneycruise.disney.go.com/cruises-destinations/bahamas/ports/port-canaveral-florida/departure-port-information/

Parking The parking facility is staffed from 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. for Guests parking their vehicles prior to embarking the ship. The parking lot and garage are paved, gated and under 24-hour surveillance.

Parking fees are charged when you enter the parking facility instead of upon leaving. Parking attendants will provide a receipt to the Guests upon entry of the parking facility.

Guests are charged for every day their vehicle is in the lot/garage, which includes the day of arrival and the day of departure from the cruise.

Parking costs are based on cruise itinerary. See below:

• $68.00 per parking space for the 3-night cruise
• $85.00 per parking space for the 4-night cruise
• $102.00 per parking space for the 5-night cruise
• $119.00 per parking space for the 6-night cruise
• $136.00 per parking space for the 7-night cruise
• $153.00 per parking space for the 8-night cruise
• $170.00 per parking space for the 9-night cruise

If the Guest’s vehicle takes up more than one parking space (i.e. RV, trailer), the guest is charged $15.00 per additional parking space per day.

Preferred parking is also available for $25.00 per day. The preferred parking area is located inside the secured area, next to the vehicle dropoff area.

Guests enter via the car gate, drop off their luggage and then make a left turn in to the preferred parking area. There are total of 113 spaces, including 6 accessible spaces. Parking in the preferred area is on a first-come, first-served basis. Due to the size of the lot, there is no over-sized vehicle parking available in the preferred parking area.

The Port Canaveral Port Authority operates the parking facility. Cash, Visa and MasterCard are the only acceptable forms of payment. Personal checks are not accepted.

Rates are subject to change without notice.

All Guests must be on board the ship by 3:45 p.m.

Port Canaveral Parking Website 

OTHER Parking Near PC

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PORT OF MIAMI

Cruise Terminal 

Port of Miami Port Blvd. Miami, FL 33132

Port Of Miami Website

Parking reservation is not required at the Port of Miami.

There’s a free shuttle service from the parking garage that will bring you to the appropriate cruise terminal of your choice.

Effective December 1, 2017

• Overnight Parking, per night : $22
• Short-term Parking : $8
• Vehicles longer than 20 feet : An additional $22 per day

Payment All of our garages and Lot E accept cash, Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover, or any major U.S. Traveler’s Check.  No debit cards are accepted.

Other Parking Areas for Port of Miami

Premier Parking USA  –  https://www.airportparking.top/premierparkingusa.html

Port of Miami Parking –  http://www.portofmiamicruiseparking.com

Safe Cruise Parking –  http://www.safecruiseparking.com

GALVESTON PORT AND PARK

http://www.portparking.com/

NEW YORK MANHATTAN TERMINAL

Cruise Terminal Manhattan Cruise Terminal 711 12th Ave, New York, NY 10019 (212) 641-4441

https://www.nycruise.com/manhattan-terminal/

Parking reservations are not available at the Manhattan Cruise Terminal.

Parking fee: $40 per night with taxes included and no up charge for SUVs (subject to change)

The vehicle height restriction is 8 ft. 3 in.

The parking terminal opens at 8 am. Upon debarkation, you must check your car out by 1 pm.

Payment can be made by cash, Visa, or MasterCard only at the port upon arrival.

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Port of Miami Guide

A Guide to Miami Cruise Port Terminals

The city is a world class destination for you to enjoy before or after you set sail on your cruise. Iconic views at Miami Beach, lively South Beach, pristine Everglades National Park, bustling streets in Little Havana, beautiful architecture in the Art Deco Historic District, and much more await you.

With more than 20 cruise lines berthing 55 ships, PortMiami is one of the world’s leading cruise destinations. More than 4 million cruise passengers traveled through the port in 2022.

Cruise ships sail to points across the Caribbean , the Bahamas, Mexico and other thrilling ports from South Florida’s cultural and economic center.

Easily accessible from Miami International Airport and Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, the port is minutes from Downtown Miami and major interstates.

If you are planning a pre- or post-cruise stay in Miami, there are plenty of hotels close to the Port of Miami that cater to virtually any taste and budget.

Read also : Where should I stay for a cruise from Miami?

Port of Miami in Florida Miami Cruise Terminals Getting to Miami Cruise Port Port of Miami Parking Best Time to Visit & Cruise Where to stay near the port Where to shop near the Port of Miami Sights to See Best ways to get around Miami

Miami Cruise Terminals

Modern and efficient, the future 11 cruise terminals at PortMiami are designed for quick boarding and disembarkation. Many have undergone extensive renovations, while others will be updated to offer a better travel experience for cruise passengers. Passenger drop-off is offered in front of each terminal, and parking is also available at the port.

Opened in 2018, Terminal A is home to Royal Caribbean Cruises and is the largest cruise terminal in the United States. The iconic sails of Terminal G make it an instantly recognizable landmark in Miami, and the terminal also serves Royal Caribbean. Terminal J is a boutique facility that caters to luxury cruises and smaller ships.

Moving from Terminal F, MSC Cruises will sail out of a newly designed Terminals AA/AAA in 2024. Carnival’s ships are based at Terminals D and E, and the newly renovated Terminal F from 2022. Norwegian Cruise Line operates out of Terminals B and C, while the new Terminal K will be the base for Disney Cruise Line. Terminal V opened in 2022 for Virgin Voyages .

Miami has several cruise terminals and they are:

• Terminal AA/AAA – MSC Cruises (2024)
• Terminal A – Royal Caribbean | The Crown of Miami
• Terminal B – Norwegian Cruise Line | The Pearl of Miami
• Cruise Terminal C – Disney Cruise Line | MSC
• Terminals D & E – Carnival, Princess Cruises, P&O, Holland America Line
• Terminal F – Carnival Cruises
• Terminal G – Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises
• Terminal J – small vessels and luxury cruises (Oceania Cruises, Regent Seven Seas)
• Terminal K – Disney Cruise Line (Pending)
• Terminal V – Virgin Voyages | Palm Grove

Getting to Miami Cruise Port

PortMiami sits across from Miami’s soaring skyline and south of scenic Biscayne Bay. The sprawling port is connected to the city via Port Boulevard and is easily accessible from any destination in and around Miami. Interstates 95 and 395 are less than five minutes away, and Miami International Airport is about a ten-minute drive from the port.

If traveling to the cruise terminals at PortMiami by car, you can use the following address on your GPS : 1015 North America Way, Miami, FL, 33132. Signs will guide you to cruise terminals and parking lots, which are close to all terminals.

From Miami International Airport (7 miles): Estimated Driving Time: 20 minutes (depending on traffic)

– Via Port Tunnel: Get on FL-836 E in Miami from Miad Cir

– Continue on FL-836 E and keep left to continue on I-395 E. Then keep right to continue on MacArthur Causeway and use the left 2 lanes to take the Miami Beach exit.

– Continue onto Port Miami Tunnel and use the left lane to continue toward Port Blvd. Use the left lane to turn slightly left onto Panama Way and use the left lane to turn slightly left onto N Cruise Blvd. Then turn left onto Europe Way and follow the signs to your pier terminal.

From Ft. Lauderdale/Hollywood International Airport (26 miles): Estimated Driving Time: 45 minutes (depending on traffic)

– Get on I-95 S in Dania Beach from Terminal Dr, Perimeter Rd and FL-818 W/Griffin Rd

– Follow I-95 S to Port Miami Tunnel in Miami. Use the left 2 lanes to take exit 2D toward I-395 E/Miami Beach

– Merge onto MacArthur Causeway and use the left 2 lanes to take the Miami Beach exit towards Port of Miami Tunnel and follow the signs for your pier terminal.

Cruise line transfers

Many cruise passengers arrive and depart by air. Most cruise lines provide shuttles for passengers arriving from across the U.S. and beyond at Miami International Airport. These transfers can be arranged in advance online or by calling to the cruise line (2 to 4 days prior to sailing depending on which cruise line).

Note : These shuttles are mainly only available on the day of embarkation or disembarkation. As it’s recommended to arrive at least 1 day before your voyage, this option is not suitable for most cruise passengers.

Cruise line transfers are not cheap at are charged per person. Currently for example Carnival Cruises charges $22.99 per person for a transfer from the airport to the Port of Miami. Other and cheaper options include taxi, Uber or Lyft. An Uber or Lyft is mostly the cheapest way to get to your departure terminal.

Taxi – Uber/Lyft

There is no longer a flat rate of $27 from the airport to the port, this was removed after the covid period. A taxi from the airport to the port will cost you approx. $40.

In addition to taxis, ride-hailing services such as Uber and Lyft are available from points across the city and surrounding area. It basically means you use a very simple smartphone app to request a ride, and your driver uses his/her personal vehicle. These are great hassle-free options to get to your cruise terminal and are often more comfortable than a cab.

Prices of Uber/Lyft start around $20 from Miami airport to cruise port and even less for a shared pool ride. The cost of UberXL is approx. $41 while Premier and SUV cars run around $50 to $90. Prices can vary during traffic delays or high-demand times.

These rates are per car or taxi, not per person.

Public Transportation to Port of Miami

If you prefer to use public transit , you can use Metrorail’s Orange Line from Downtown Miami. You will then need to transfer to the Metromover of City of Miami Coral Way Trolley from the Government Centre Metrorail/Metromover Station.

You can download the Go Miami-Dade Transit app and guide to help you plan your journey by bus, train or mover car from anywhere in the city.

Trains also bring cruise passengers to and from Maimi. Virgin Trains USA (formerly operating as Brightline ) connect Miami with Ft. Lauderdale, West Palm Beach, and Orlando in the near future. Comfortable express trains depart from and arrive at Virgin MiamiCentral in Downtown Miami.

Amtrak train services from New York City, Washington, Richmond, Savannah, Orlando and other cities across the Eastern Seaboard operate from Miami Station, which is close to the Tri-Rail/Metrorail Transfer Station.

Hotels with Free Shuttle

As flight delays can always happend due to bad weather or cancelations we can recommend to book a stay at a hotel at least for one day ahead of your cruise. Some hotels close to the port offer a shuttle service for a small fee and some airport hotels such as the Comfort Suites hotel offer a complimentary shuttle service from the airport and to Miami cruise port.

At some properties you can even leave your car parked at the hotel to avoid costly port parking.

Similarly, there are rental car companies that provide courtesy shuttles after you drop off your vehicle.

Private Transportation to Miami Cruise Port

A variety of companies provide private transportation between Miami Airport and the Port of Miami cruise terminals. They offer drop-off or pick-up service between the International Airport and the cruise port. These shuttles can also be booked for getting you to/from a hotel to the terminal and airport. It’s a stress-free way to travel in comfort as driver will be waiting for you and will drop you off at your destination.

Check fares for Private Transportation to Cruise Port .

How to get from Fort Lauderdale/Hollywood International Airport to Miami Cruise Port

Anybody looking to travel the 30 miles from Fort Lauderdale airport (FLL) to Miami’s Cruise Port will be well served by a fantastic transport nexus specifically tailored to the bustling cruise network. But with so many transportation options available, it’s good to have in mind what each one offers, so that you can plan accordingly. Whatever transportation you choose, its best to allow at least 45 to 60 minutes for you journey from the airport to your Miami hotel or cruise terminal.

Cruise Line Transfer

Reserving your airport transfer through the cruise line promises a level of convenience, comfort and assurance that other options might not meet. You will often be greeted by cruise company representatives, conducted to a comfortable coach, and be safe in the knowledge that if the shuttle is delayed the cruise will not be leaving without you.

The comfort and assurance of the official option does come at a cost however, with many shuttle services costing around $25 to $35 per person. Charges like this may be fine if you are travelling alone, but they soon add up to a large bill if you are travelling with family.

Airport & Private Shuttles

Any airport departure gate will be well served by independent shuttle companies, and in Fort Lauderdale there are plenty of shuttle services catered to cruisers. Opting for an independent airport shuttle service will often be cheaper than a cruise line’s official shuttles. Rather than a coach, expect a minibus, and if travelling alone, expect to share the journey with other cruisers.

Private shuttles are a viable option for small groups, working out around $30 a head, this competes with the official cruise lines’ shuttle services. If you want to upgrade from an economy vehicle to something a little more stylish there are also private car and limo companies throughout the area offering private and stylish transportation between airport and seaport.

Check rates for transfers from Ft Lauderdale to Miami

Hotel Shuttles

The hotels of Fort Lauderdale near the port are well prepared to service cruisers, but often hotels in the area will only provide shuttle journeys to the nearby Port Everglades Cruise Terminal in Fort Lauderdale itself.

If you are looking to travel further afield to the Port of Miami, you may need to make your journey through a private travel service.

Taxis and Uber Journeys

Another form of independent travel between airport and cruise terminal are taxis, which don’t require pre-booking. However, ordering a traditional taxi at the rank right outside the airport can be expensive, with a one-way trip costing at least $72, and these services are less flexible than more recent competitors in the taxi market.

For the best taxi experience consider an established rideshare app like Uber or Lyft. With established pick up and drop off points, and drivers who are familiar with the route and the time it will take, these services are a great reliable way to conduct your journey, with convenient free apps giving you the option of pre-booking your journey, and shared pool rides starting from as little as $32.

Unlike other services, rideshare apps charge for the use of car, not for each passenger, so your money can go a long way if you are travelling in a large party, with 4 people able to make the trip for as little as $40, that’s $10 each. Also, if you want to splash out a bit more, these apps can be used to book a high-end SUV for your journey, providing a costlier but more luxurious travel experience. All payments can be conducted securely through the app via credit card, meaning you don’t need to worry about getting a hold of cash.

Public Transport

Using the train to travel from FLL to the Port of Miami can be an incredibly cheap option, but does require more familiarity with the area, and may be a difficult journey to conduct with large parties bearing lots of luggage.

The journey consists of taking a Tri-Rail train to Miami International Airport (for under $5), before taking the Metrorail Orange Line (at around $2 a head), changing at the Freedom Tower stop to board a free train on the Coral Way Route to reach Port Miami. This journey can cost as little as $6, but requires a bit more work than laying back in a coach, and the extra effort required may not be welcome to those who want to relax as soon as they touch down at the airport, and cut down their journey time.

But for a well-travelled, single passenger or small party, this can be a great travel option at an unbeatable price.

Port of Miami Parking

If you are driving your own vehicle to the port, parking garages and lots are conveniently located at all the cruise terminals. There are designed parking spots in each garage for disabled permit holders, and a wheelchair accessible shuttle connects passengers from their vehicle to their cruise terminal.

If you are driving a recreational vehicle or have a trailer, there are spots for oversized vehicles at Lot 2 close to Terminal E. All parking facilities are patrolled by security.

All parking areas at cruise terminal and Lot 2 are open on cruise days only. Long-term parking states at around $22 per night. On non-cruise days, you will need to contact PortMiami or port security to gain access to your vehicle.

Payment for parking is available using major credit cards, including Visa, MasterCard, American Express and Discover. You can also pay using major U.S. Traveler’s Checks or cash. Parking at Garage J is only available on a pre-paid basis.

Affordable short term parking is available at two designated lots. These are great options for friends, family and others if you are being picked up. Cell phone waiting lots are found across from Terminal B and Terminal 2 (POMTOC).

Additional several Miami hotels offer cruise parking for the duration of your voyage. You pay a fee/ night to leave your car at the hotel or book a parking package which includes a night stay, shuttle service and cruise parking.

Read also : Miami Cruise Parking

Best Time to Visit and Cruise from Miami?

Miami is a year-round destination with plenty to see and do regardless of when you visit. Generally, mid-February through to May are great times to visit the city. The humidity of summer and uncertainty of Hurricane Season have not arrived, and you will find warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine.

If you are visiting Miami Beach , the best time is between March and May. You will find sunny days and comfortable temperatures hovering between the high 70s and low 80s. You also avoid peak season rates common during the winter and summer months with a spring-time visit.

Hurricane season typically runs from the beginning of June until the end of November. Most rain falls on Miami between May and September, while the winter period between December and February are the driest.

Read also : What’s the Best Time for a Caribbean Cruise from Miami?

Useful Information About Miami for Cruise Passengers

Miami has an extensive public transit system , which connects you to all major attractions in the city. Metrobus, Metrorail, and free trolley buses make it easy to explore Miami without a car. Miami Beach and Downtown are easily explored on foot, although having a car or traveling by taxi and public transit are the best way to get between districts.

Downtown Miami is home to the city’s major attractions and is the commercial hub of the city. From theaters and shops to government officers and corporate headquarters, the district is a bustling part of the city with plenty of hotels and things to do.

To the north is Midtown and the hip Design District, while Cuban culture flourishes with authentic Latin restaurants and shops in Little Havana to the west. Coconut Grove is a lush part of the city with historic sites, fine dining and luxury hotels.

Miami Beach sits on a barrier island east of Downtown Miami. Often thought of as part of Miami, it is a separate and distinct municipality. The popular beach destination on the shore of the Atlantic Ocean is home to several oceanfront resorts, sandy beaches, and colorful South Beach.

Where to stay near the port?

Downtown Miami and Brickell are the closest neighborhoods to PortMiami with top hotels like the InterContinental Miami, The Gabriel Miami, Hyatt Centric Brickell, Four Seasons, and Kimpton EPIC Hotel .

Hotels with breathtaking views and luxury options abound in Downtown, which is home to popular tourist attractions including Bayside Marketplace , Bayfront Park , Museum Park and Lummus Park. While still very much urban, Brickell offers a more suburban feel. Plenty of hotels are found in the neighborhood, which also offers fantastic dining and shopping at Mary Brickell Village.

Miami Beach and South Beach are unbeatable locations with oceanfront hotels offering idyllic views close to pristine white sand beaches. These diverse areas are home to top dining, from fine dining world class restaurants to delicious dishes at casual beachside haunts.

Lincoln Road is lined with lively bars and is a popular spot to enjoy a walk, and the Bass Museum of Art is also in the area. Favourite hotels close to PortMiami include The Redbury South Beach, 1 Hotel South Beach, The Confidante Miami Beach, The Marlin Hotel, Loews Miami Beach Hotel, The Palms Hotel and Spa, and Hampton Inn Miami Beach .

A hotel close to Miami International Airport is perfect if you have a late flight into the city or are flying out early in the morning. The airport is less than a ten-minute drive or shuttle bus ride from cruise terminals. Also nearby are the peaceful neighborhoods of Coconut Grove and Coral Gables, 15 to 20 minutes south-west of the port.

Coconut Grove overlooks Biscayne Bay while Coral Cables is a picturesque neighborhood with fantastic shops, beautiful mansions and historic sites. Luxurious options include The Ritz-Carlton Coconut Grove Miami, Biltmore Hotel, Hotel Colonnade Coral Gables, Hyatt Regency Coral Gables, and Hotel St. Michel.

Read also : Best Hotels near Port of Miami

Where to shop near the Port of Miami?

If you forgot to pack something or need to do some last-minute shopping, there are two shopping centers close to PortMiami.

Just across from the causeway linking the port with the city, Bayside Marketplace is an open-air shopping and entertainment destination. The waterfront complex overlooks Biscayne Bay and has several dining options and more than 120 shops.

Bayside Marketplace is just a 25-minute walk from the port, or you can hop on the free Coral Way Trolley and use the Biscayne Boulevard stop. It is also close to the Metromover’s Bayside station. Please not the heat/humidity of Miami can be extreme.

Ride sharing options are also available such as Taxi, Uber and Lyft. It’s a $10-12 cab ride and probably $8 or less in Uber.

Brickell City Centre is another shopping destination close to the port. With over 120 stores and services spread across four floors, the shopping center has something for everyone. You can also enjoy a bite at one of several eateries. There is also a dine-in movie theater. The shopping center is served by the Metromover’s Brickell City Centre station as well as the free Brickell Trolley.

Sights to see

Miami and the surrounding area have a lot to offer, from interactive museums and picturesque parks to eye-catching architecture and inviting beaches. Whether you have some time to spare or are looking for attractions close to the city’s cruise terminals, there are fabulous destinations close to PortMiami.

Here are a few great attractions to consider visiting during your stay in Miami:

Bayside Marketplace : With panoramic views of Biscayne Bay, this major shopping and entertainment destination is a great destination for retail therapy and last-minute souvenir shopping. The complex is also a popular spot to grab a bite to eat with Segafredo, Hard Rock Café, Bubba Gump Shrimp Co., and other popular eateries. Bayside Marketplace also has a dock where you can book a boat tour of the city.

Frost Science and Perez Art Museum Miami : Located in Downtown Miami, this art and science destination offers fun for all ages with at two unforgettable museums. Frost Science is home to 3-D planetarium and an aquarium with touch-tanks, as well as other mind-bending exhibits. Hanging gardens overlooking Buscayne Bay and a stunning collection of modern and contemporary art are found at Perez Art Museum Miami. Once you are finished explore one or both of these museums, you can enjoy a walk along the bay or relax at a park.

South Beach : One of Florida’s most iconic destinations, South Beach is famous for its lively atmosphere and beautiful sandy beach. Swim in the turqoiuse waters, or rent a paddleboard or kayak to explore the waters off Florida’s magnificent coast. You can also stroll along Lincoln Road, a pedestrian mall lines with buzzing restaurants and bars. South Pointe Park is a fun spot for kits to play in interactive water fountains, while Sunset Harbour is a great place to cycle, shop and eat.

Brickell City Centre : This luxury shopping destination has more than 120 stores. From top fashion labels to the latest gadgets, you will find everything you need. There are also great eat-in restaurants and food halls to enjoy a meal. For film buffs who like to have a cocktail or meal while enjoying a movie, the complex also has a dine-in theater.

Española Way : Located between Washington and Pennsylvania Avenue in Miami Beach, this cobblestone street offers Mediterranean-inspired charm and style. The pedestrian street is home to intimate boutique hotels and welcoming sidewalk cafes, as well as live music and street entertainment. Española Way is a terrific spot to people watch and relax before your cruise or during your stay in Miami.

Read also : Best Things to do Before and After a Miami Cruise

Best ways to get around Miami

Miami is a sprawling city that can be covered by car, public transport, or other options. With neighborhoods spread across an area of about 55 square miles, you can cover more ground when not exploring by foot.

These options are also great solutions to avoid the intense humidity of Miami’s summers.

Car : If you do not have your own car, renting one is a great way to explore Miami. Renting a car gives you the flexibility to visit different parts of the city, from Miami Beach and Downtown to Little Havana and Coral Gables.

Car rental agencies have offices at PortMiami, Miami International Airport, Downtown, and other parts of the city.

Uber and Lyft : Ride-hailing services provide an affordable option to travel between Miami’s neighborhoods.

Uber and Lyft can also be cheaper than a taxi or renting a car, especially if you do not plan to be on the road during your entire stay in the city.

Limousine and chauffeured services : If you are looking for luxury or just want to be pampered, there are limo services from various service providers in Miami.

Rates depends on the type of car or limo you hire as well as how long you plan to use the service.

Public transit : Buses, trains and trolleys connect virtually every part of Miami. Trolleys are free and frequent, while the Metromover gives you easy access to Downtown and Brickell.

Metrorail is a good option for destinations further afield, including South Miami, Coconut Grove and Coral Gables. Buses also link neighborhoods throughout Miami and Miami Beach.

(Latest update December 21st 2023)

Please contact us if any information is incorrect or not up-to-date.

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Tag Archives: PortMiami

Disney Dream Moving to South Florida Ahead of the Disney Wish’s Arrival

Today is the end of an era for the Disney Dream as she departs Port Canaveral for the last time – at least for the foreseeable future, to begin a Continue Reading →

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The Disney Cruise Line Now Sails Out of the Port of Miami

July 14, 2022 by Christine Rush

For those that have sailed with Disney Cruise Line before or have researched an itinerary, most likely Port Canaveral was the port of embarkation. Disney’s terminal there is just what you would expect, including a big Mickey-outlined doorway to walk through onto the ship.

But did you know Disney also leaves from Miami, Florida? In fact, the Disney Dream (my favorite ship at this moment ) has recently moved to the Port of Miami. They started sailing some new itineraries that my family was the first to embark on.

Port of Miami

The Port of Miami proudly welcomed the Disney Dream to her new home port. The embarkation process and terminal were fabulous. We were on the ship within 20 minutes of pulling up to the curbside.

We flew in the night before (strongly recommended) and stayed at the Intercontinental Hotel. What a beautiful sight to wake up and look out our window to see the Disney Dream patiently waiting for us to board. A quick 7-minute ride ($12 Uber) to the port. Our credentials were checked by a DCL cast member and we were on our way onto the ship.

The Disney Dream now sails 4 and 5-night itineraries with stops in Cozumel, Mexico, Grand Cayman Islands, and of course, Castaway Cay.

My family was on the first Disney Dream sailing to Cozumel, Mexico, and what a welcome we received. The port employees and the hosts of our excursion were beyond thankful and grateful that we chose to disembark in their beautiful city.

We booked the Fury Catamaran Sail Snorkel and Beach Party (CZ12). My family absolutely loved this excursion. The boat ride over to the snorkel lagoon was breathtaking and the coral reef and marine life were nothing short of spectacular. Afterward, we reboarded the catamaran and sailed to a private beach with lots to do including kayaking, paddle boarding, aqua park and just relaxing on our lounge chairs.

Castaway Cay- Disney’s Private Island

There’s nothing quite like a stop in Castaway Cay – Disney’s private island paradise. This pristine island oasis is everything you would imagine Disney to be in the Bahamas. From its cleanliness to its landscaping and everything in between. It’s our favorite day of all of our Disney cruises. You can soar through the sky while parasailing, pedal through scenic routes on a bike ride, and complete a 5K run, earning a medal (see below) all by lunchtime!

If you’re thinking about a Disney Cruise Line vacation, I would not hesitate to book one of the Dream’s itineraries out of the Port of Miami. I couldn’t have asked for a better 5-night getaway with my family.

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Miami Disney Cruises

Disney Cruise Line is now departing from the Port of Miami, Florida! Set sail aboard the beautiful Disney Wonder for destinations in the Bahamas and Western Caribbean, including Nassau, Cozumel, Grand Cayman and Disney's own private island, Castaway Cay!

3-Night Bahamian Cruises

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Disney Cruise Line recommends two hotels for pre- and post-night stays in Miami:

• Conrad Miami Hotel
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Bahamian Disney Cruises from Miami

• 2022 Sail Date (Disney Magic): May 5
• 2021 Sail Dates (Disney Magic): December 26
• 2022 Sail Dates (Disney Magic): January 13, 27, February 10, March 10, 24, April 7, 21
• 2021 Sail Dates (Disney Magic): December 16
• 2021 Sail Dates (Disney Magic): November 18
• 2021 Sail Dates: November 13**, December 6*

*=Monday Departure | **Saturday departure

• 2022 Sail Date: April 16
• 2021 Sail Dates: November 27

Western Caribbean Disney Cruises from Miami

5-Night Western Caribbean Cruises

2021 Sail Dates (Disney Magic): December 29

2022 Sail Dates (Disney Magic): January 22, February 5, March 19, April 30

2021 Sail Dates (Disney Magic): November 8, 22, December 29

2022 Sail Dates (Disney Magic): January 8, February 14, March 5, 28, April 2 *=Wednesday departure

6-Night Western Caribbean Cruises

2021 Sail Dates (Disney Magic): December 20

Eastern Caribbean Disney Cruises from Miami

7-Night Eastern Caribbean Cruises

Sail Dates (Disney Magic): NONE SCHEDULED

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14-Night Panama Canal Repositioning Cruise - Westbound

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Home » Cruise Tips » Everything You Need to Know About Parking for Miami Cruise Port

Everything You Need to Know About Parking for Miami Cruise Port

If you are planning to drive to your next cruise from PortMiami, we answer all your questions about parking for the Miami Cruise Port.

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The Port of Miami continues to grow and many cruisers opt to drive to the port rather than fly. Known as the Cruise Capital of the World , Miami is well-prepared to welcome guests arriving by automobile. Lucky those cruisers who can drive to the port rather than fly. But where do you park when you arrive? Are there options besides parking at the cruise port? What happens if the lots are full? Do you have a plan B?

Well, if you are planning to drive to your next cruise from PortMiami, we answer all your questions about parking for the Miami Cruise Port.

Here’s What You Need to Know About Parking for the Miami Cruise Port

First and foremost, if you are driving to the port be prepared for unexpected delays. Don’t cut your arrival too close to final boarding time. In fact, we always recommend that those who fly in arrive a day early .

That advice also holds true for driving, especially if you have driven from far away. The relief of stress knowing that you have arrived and are an easy shuttle ride to the port is worth it. Being rested prepares you for enjoying every moment of your cruise.

What Are My Parking Options?

As the largest cruise port in the world, PortMiami offers a variety of parking spaces paired with the nearest cruise terminal, eliminating long walks from the car to the terminal.

Yet, while the Port of Miami itself may be the first option that comes to mind, you should be aware of other alternatives for parking that are outside of the port itself as well. This way, you can make an informed decision as to which option best fits your needs.

Parking at the Port of Miami

For many, parking right at the port makes everything simpler. This choice takes away the time and stress of researching and comparing other options. Just take note of your cruise line and find the garage that provides parking for that terminal.

The Port of Miami has excellent signage directing you to your appropriate cruise terminal. You should also check your cruise docs or the cruise website to see where your cruise ship will dock at the port before your embarkation day .

PortMiami has made it simple to know which parking option is closest to the cruise terminal where your ship departs. Most of these parking facilities are in garages, but the overflow lots have uncovered parking. Here is a list of the current parking areas and their matching cruise lines.

• Terminal AA/AAA – MSC Cruises (coming in 2024)
• Terminal A – Royal Caribbean | The Crown of Miami
• Terminal B – Norwegian Cruise Line | The Pearl of Miami
• Terminal C – Disney Cruise Line/MSC (Disney will move to Port Canaveral and MSC will move to a new terminal AA/AAA. Other cruise lines will eventually use this lot.)
• Terminals D & E – Carnival, Princess Cruises, P&O, Holland America Line
• Terminal F – Carnival Cruise Line
• Terminal G – Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises
• Terminal J – Small vessels and luxury cruises
• Terminal K – Overflow Lot
• Terminal V – Virgin Voyages | Palm Grove

Cost of Parking at the Miami Cruise Terminal

For most vehicles, the charge for parking is $22 daily. Remember that includes any part of a day. So, if you come in on Sunday at 3:00 PM and leave the next Sunday at 9:00 AM, you will pay for eight days of parking.

Royal Caribbean’s parking A has its own system. You may reserve your parking in advance. You go to the site , select your sailing and it will give you the total amount. Expect to pay $35 per day for Terminal A parking.

Terminal J requires pre-payment upon entering. Cruisers will be given a decal to stick to their windshield.

Parking lot E has an outside lot for oversized vehicles. The cost is $22 per space. If your rig takes up two spaces, you will pay $44.

Please call the port to check on parking fees if you have a disabled veterans license plate, adapted controls in the car, and are a resident of Florida to see what your parking costs will be.

Other Parking Options

While the port may be the most convenient, it’s often more expensive. Though, it does have security, which may be comforting to many. Who wants to come back to a car missing its catalytic converter or to no car at all?

If you are looking for alternative parking options, you have some choices.

Hotel Park and Stay

Some hotels have a stay and park option. If you are using a travel advisor, ask them to check International Holidays, a company that only works with professionals. They can help quickly find a hotel that offers such a combo fare. Usually, you will pay a higher premium for your room, but it will make sense when you figure that you are paying for both a night at the hotel and parking for the duration of your cruise.

Another way to find these deals is to go to your favorite search engine and look for “park and stay hotels in Miami”. While many hotels have a free shuttle with this rate, they will likely have assigned shuttle times to/from the cruise port, and they may even have a per person rate to get to PortMiami. With a shared ride service or taxi, you go when you want and the cost may be less or close to what the hotel charges for this service.

Below are some popular hotels options that offer park and stay packages listed in order of distance from the Miami Cruise Port.

• DoubleTree by Hilton Grand Hotel Biscayne Bay (2 miles to cruise port)
• Hilton Miami Downtown (2 miles to cruise port)
• Hampton Inn & Suites Miami Brickell Downtown (2.7 miles to cruise port)
• Courtyard by Marriott Miami Airport (6.5 miles to cruise port)
• Residence Inn by Marriott Miami Airport (6.5 miles to cruise port)
• Towneplace Suites Miami Airport (6.5 miles to cruise port)
• Embassy Suites by Hilton Miami International Airport (7 miles to cruise port)
• Sonesta Miami Airport (7 miles to cruise port)
• Hyatt Place Miami Airport East (7.5 miles to cruise port)
• Hampton Inn & Suites Miami Airport South/Blue Lagoon (8.5 miles to cruise port)
• Hampton Inn Miami Airport East (8.5 miles to cruise port)
• Eb Hotel Miami (8.5 miles to cruise port)
• SpringHill Suites By Marriott Miami Airport South Blue Lagoon Area (10.5 miles to cruise port)
• Four Points by Sheraton Miami Airport (11.5 miles to cruise port)
• Hilton Garden Inn Miami Airport West (12 miles to cruise port)

Hotel Lots Without a Stay

Have you ever had a flight cancelled and decided to drive to the Port of Miami to catch your cruise? You wouldn’t have made a Park and Cruise hotel reservation due to the unexpected circumstances. But if you are still looking for an alternative parking option, some hotels do offer such without a stay. Hotels that offer this option often use a third party reservation system. You can do a search for long term hotel parking.

While not PortMiami, I did encounter this situtation recently. My personal experience when my flights were cancelled meant I quickly looked for a flight that would leave that same day. Most were a few days out, but I suggested an alternate airport to the agent and she found one that I could make the same day. This meant driving for three hours in a snowstorm!

Thankfully, after a thorough search, I found a hotel near the alternate airport that had long-term parking. Most of the options had parking for less than half of what the airport charged. Just do your homework before reserving this option as some have cancellation fees.

Alternative Off-Site Parking Lots

Another alternative for less expensive parking for the Miami Cruise Port are off-site parking lots. There are several independent parking lots near the cruise port. Again do a search to see where the nearest parking lots are in relation to the port, what the fees are, and if they offer a free shuttle to the port. You may even find recommendations in Facebook groups from fellow cruisers.

Also, be sure to check on the reviews for these places and the type of security they offer. Caveat Emptor.

Some options for off-site parking near the Miami Cruise Port include:

• Premier Cruise Parking
• Safe Cruise Parking
• We Park in Miami
• The Cruise Parking Miami

Discounts or Special Offers

After deciding which of these parking options is best for you, it doesn’t hurt to see if you can score any discounts or special offers on the price. Check out sources like Groupon, auto club memberships, other types of memberships or special coupons to see if you are eligible for a parking discount.

Getting to the Port of Miami from the Miami Airport

If after reading this you’ve decided to just fly to Miami or to park at the airport , there are a few ways of getting to PortMaimi from the Miami Airport. You could use a ride-share program like Lyft or Uber, a shuttle service, a taxi, or you could use Miami-Dade public transportation.

Shared Ride Service and Taxis

From Miami Airport to the Port of Miami, driving time is just about 15 minutes depending on traffic. The cost will vary with shared-ride services depending if you are traveling during a surge period and on which class of car you book. A good estimate would be around $15, but that is subject to a variety of factors.

Ride App pickup zones are located on the Arrivals Level (1) at the middle median outside of doors 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 11, 15, 20 and 23.

Miami-Dade County provides this rate card for taxis:

Shuttle Service

Services like Lyft, Uber, and taxi charge per car. Shuttle services unless booked as a private car charge by the person. So if your family of four needs transport to the port it may be more economical to hire a Lyft, Uber, or taxi.

You will find both economy and luxury options for shuttles between Miami airport and the Port of Miami. My favorite at the luxury end is Blacklane . However, many shuttle services do operate from MIA and the costs for these services vary. The cruise lines typically offer shuttles from the airport as well on the day of embarkation.

Public Transportation

Public transportation is also an option. From the airport, you will first take the MIA Mover, station located on the third level between the Dolphin and Flamingo garages at the airport. Take the Skyride on the third level to reach the station. Allow about four minutes. Then, look for the Orange MetroRail, which will take you to Government Center.

The train into downtown Miami is an inexpensive and convenient option to get near the port. The fee is only $2.25. But remember that you will likely have luggage with you. They don’t call it “lug”- gage for nothing. Consider what it takes to get your bags on and off the train.

Once you reach Government Center, you can get a shared ride to the port. Or you can wait for the free Trolley. Keep in mind that the trolley does not stop at every cruise terminal in the port. And don’t forget that your luggage has to get onto the trolley with you.

Saving the Best Option to Last

If you have friends or family who live near the port, you might be able to stay with them and leave your car with them. They might even agree to drive you to the port.

Or, maybe they live elsewhere in Florida near the newer Brightline train , which runs between Orlando and Miami, with limited stops between.

Considerations for Parking at the Port of Miami or Elsewhere

• Figure out what the value of your time is. Remember that you are here for a cruise . Do you want to spend hours figuring out parking alternatives to save a few bucks? Likely, you have saved a lot by driving rather than flying anyway.
• Check out reviews of the parking lots that you are considering.
• Check out reviews of the shuttle or car service that interests you.
• If you need a shuttle to the cruise port, be sure that the shuttle service can carry all of your luggage.
• Be sure to allow plenty of time for taking a shuttle or other transportation to the Port of Miami.
• Check your cruise line to see if they offer shuttles to and from the airport if you have chosen to park near there.
• Drop off your passengers and all luggage at your designated cruise terminal before parking your vehicle.
• Make note of where you parked. Grab a business card from the attendant at a remote lot. You will need to call for the shuttle when you get back. Take a photo of the nearest sign or landmark.
• Arrive a day early so you aren’t exhausted from driving long distances.
• Remember how you dropped off your passengers and luggage before heading to the parking lot? When you return, do the opposite. Leave the others with all the luggage at the terminal and retrieve your vehicle.
• If you park at a surface lot, put a sun blocker in your windshield to protect your vehicle from the scorching sun.
• If you are traveling with kids who need a car seat, don’t forget to grab it if you are planning on renting a car for independent exploration in a port of call.
• Carry a spare set of keys that you keep on your person.
• Don’t wait to the last minute to reserve your parking space if not parking at the Port of Miami.

Final Thoughts

With advance preparation, drivers can make the process of finding parking for their cruise go smoothly. Choosing the Port of Miami parking takes much less thought than other parking locations, but they are certainly viable options if you are looking to save money.

Remember that it’s your vacation. Choose the parking option that works best for you and gets you to your cruise ship safely and easily.

Do you have any other questions about parking for the Miami cruise port? Do you usually fly or drive to your cruise’s departure port? Drop us an anchor below to share your experiences cruising from PortMiami.

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Cruises also provide a wonderful option for families, with many ships offering things like waterslides, mini-golf courses and fun clubs for kids, tweens and teens. While most are free, nursery programs can cost extra. Planning is easy: Pick your destination and the right ship (and line) for your travel style. The cruise line makes it simple, offering packages to help you save on extras like alcohol, shore tours or even airfare.

Travelers say they choose to cruise because cruising often costs less per night when compared with land vacations at a hotel, where they'll have to book -- and pay for -- every extra.

What are Tips for Finding Cheap Cruises?

If you're a flexible traveler, you'll have a better chance of finding cheap cruises. Take a cruise that doesn't sail over the summer or holidays, when prices are highest. Book an inside cabin, or take your chances with a "guarantee cabin," ideal for passengers who aren't picky about their stateroom location but really want the lowest price available. Book cabins on lower decks, which often come with lower prices than those rooms on higher floors – that is staterooms over suites.

Cruise brands such as Carnival Cruise Line, MSC Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean International offer rates that might drop as low as $75 per person per night -- and sometimes even lower.

If you want a real bargain, consider a transatlantic or repositioning cruise. These cruises are one-way or open-jaw trips, that start in one port and finish at another. You can score a deal sailing from Florida to Europe, for example, or even from New York to Florida. Just be aware, you'll probably have to pay a bit more for airfare to return.

What are Tips to Finding Last-Minute Cruise Deals?

While being flexible date wise will always get you the best last-minute cruise deals, it's particularly helpful if you live near a cruise port and can quickly drive there. That way you'll probably be able to jump on those deals that might pop up just a week or two before the ship is scheduled to sail.

Or if you don't have flexibility with either departure dates or embarkation locations, be willing to compromise on exact destinations. This will allow you to find a wider range of last-minute deals traveling to locations in their off-season or so-called shoulder season.

Do plenty of research and know what your ideal cruise is and costs on average, so both are already on your radar. When you see it drop, pounce! (Many cruise lines update pricing several times per day, so preparation is crucial.)

Best cruises in 2024

There's truly a cruise style and ship for everyone, and that has never been more the case than in 2024, as vessels continue to come in an array of sizes – from riverboats and expedition vessels to the largest-ever mega ships. And it's not an exaggeration to say some are loaded with so many activities that you couldn't possibly enjoy them all in a single sailing.

Families will find plenty of options and activities onboard big ships, which have transformed cruising, making the vessels as exciting as the destinations themselves. The Caribbean is always a great option for families, offering lots of sunshine, great beaches and culture. Alaska, famous for its incredible vistas and abundant wildlife, is also a solid family cruise option. Consider cruise brands such as Carnival Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Norwegian Cruise Line, Disney Cruise Line, MSC Cruises and even Celebrity Cruises and Holland America Line for a great multi-generational voyage.

Or on the smaller side, by comparison, river cruising remains a hot ticket item this year, with exciting routes that send eager guests down the Danube or Rhine rivers in Europe or to lesser-frequented locations, like the Mekong River in Cambodia or Vietnam, or soon the Magdalena River in Colombia. Popular river cruises embark in timeless cities like Amsterdam, Budapest and Lisbon. River cruise lines to consider encompass Viking, AmaWaterways, Avalon Waterways, Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours, Emerald Cruises, Tauck, Uniworld Boutique River Cruises and Riverside Luxury Cruises, as well as American Cruise Lines for a domestic alternative.

If you're an adventurer at heart, an expedition cruise might be best for you. These voyages, often onboard small ships (only a few hundred passengers tops), offer an intimate experience that brings passengers right up next to glaciers, whales, penguins and iguanas. Ships visit tiny spots all over the world – from pole to pole – including the Arctic, Alaska, Australia, Greenland, the Galapagos and, of course, Antarctica. Passengers will spend their time zodiacing, kayaking, hiking, biking and exploring with expert guides and knowledgeable naturalists. Expedition travelers love cruise lines such as Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic, UnCruise Adventures, Silversea, HX (formerly Hurtigruten Expeditions), Ponant and Quark Expeditions, as well as an ever-expanding list that now even extends to Seabourn and Viking.

But for the most decadent form of travel, luxury cruises offer all-inclusive experiences onboard small to median-sized ships (usually under a thousand passengers) with perks like butlers, high-end amenities and personalized, intuitive service, not to mention the finest dining at sea. Ships often feature luxury touches like marble and crystal decor, intimate spaces and beautiful spas. Because luxury ships tend to be on the smaller size, they can often reach off-the-beaten-path destinations bigger ships simply cannot access -- ports like St. Tropez or Guadeloupe. If you're looking for a luxury cruise, consider Crystal, Seabourn, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Silversea, Explora Journeys, Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection and upcoming Four Seasons Yachts.

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Discover Palma de Mallorca by Land and Sea (PM53)

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