Hey cruise lovers! Did you know Florida has SEVEN different ports you can sail from? That's right – seven! I discovered this when planning my first Caribbean getaway and was totally overwhelmed by all the options. Miami or Fort Lauderdale? Tampa or Jacksonville? What's the deal with Port Canaveral anyway?
After five cruises (and counting!) from various Florida ports, I've learned each one has its own personality and perks. So I've put together this guide to help you figure out which Florida port matches your cruise style. Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned sailor, let's find your perfect jumping-off point for adventure!
Florida: The Heart of the Cruise Industry
It's difficult to overstate Florida's importance to the cruise industry. Modern cruising was born here, and many cruise ships call Florida home year-round. Even vessels that sail elsewhere throughout the year often return to Florida during winter months, attracting vacationers eager to escape colder climates.
The state's "Big Three" cruise ports—PortMiami, Port Canaveral, and Port Everglades—are constantly expanding to meet growing demand, constructing new berths and terminals while renovating existing facilities. Though these ports compete with each other, they share the common goal of keeping as many cruise ships as possible based in Florida.
Let's explore each of Florida's seven cruise ports and discover what makes them unique destinations for beginning your cruise adventure.
1. PortMiami: "The Cruise Capital of the World"
Location: Miami, FL
As the self-proclaimed "Cruise Capital of the World," PortMiami welcomed more than 8.2 million cruisers in 2024 through its 11 cruise terminals. Its prime location places passengers just minutes from Miami's vibrant attractions.
Cruise Lines:
Parking Information:
Multiple on-site parking garages adjacent to cruise terminals
Current rates: Approximately $22 per day for standard vehicles
Pre-paid parking available through PortMiami's official website
ADA accessible parking available in all garages
Oversized vehicles (RVs, buses) have designated areas at higher rates
Valet parking available at select terminals for premium rates
Nearby Attractions:
South Beach: Iconic beaches and vibrant nightlife
Bayside Marketplace: Waterfront shopping and dining
Little Havana: Authentic Cuban culture and cuisine
Jungle Island: Family-friendly wildlife attraction
Vizcaya Museum & Gardens: Historic estate with stunning Italian Renaissance gardens
Wynwood Walls: Open-air street art museum in Miami's arts district
Pérez Art Museum Miami: Contemporary art museum with waterfront views
Frost Science Museum: Interactive science museum with planetarium and aquarium
2. Port Canaveral: "Florida's Fun Port"
Location: Cape Canaveral, FL
Located about 45 miles east of Orlando, Port Canaveral served 7.6 million passengers in 2024 through its seven terminals. Its proximity to Orlando's theme parks and Kennedy Space Center makes it an ideal starting point for combining a cruise with a land-based vacation.
Cruise Lines:
Parking Information:
Dedicated parking garages and surface lots at each cruise terminal
Current rates: Approximately $17 per day for standard vehicles
Convenient curbside drop-off areas at all terminals
Free shuttle service between some parking areas and terminals
Secured, well-lit 24/7 monitored facilities
Pre-book parking online through Port Canaveral's official site for guaranteed space
Off-site private parking options available at lower rates with shuttle service
Nearby Attractions:
Kennedy Space Center: NASA's launch headquarters and visitor complex
Cocoa Beach: Famous surfing destination with a relaxed atmosphere
Exploration Tower: Seven-story attraction with panoramic views
Brevard Zoo: Interactive animal experiences
Walt Disney World: World-famous theme parks about 45 minutes away
Universal Orlando Resort: Thrilling theme parks featuring Harry Potter attractions
Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge: Natural habitat with diverse wildlife viewing opportunities
Jetty Park: Beach park with fishing pier and perfect cruise ship viewing
3. Port Everglades: "The Powerhouse Port"
Location: Fort Lauderdale, FL
Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale handled about 4 million passengers through its eight terminals in 2024. Of Florida's three largest cruise ports, Port Everglades boasts the closest proximity to a major airport—just 3 miles from Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL).
Cruise Lines:
Parking Information:
Midport and Northport parking garages conveniently located near cruise terminals
Current rates: Approximately $15 per day for standard vehicles
Complimentary shuttle service between parking areas and more distant terminals
Payment options include credit/debit cards and cash upon exit
Height restrictions apply in garages (vehicles over 6'8" directed to surface lots)
Pre-paid parking available through Port Everglades' website
Several off-port private parking facilities with competitive rates and shuttle service
Nearby Attractions:
Las Olas Boulevard: Upscale shopping and dining district
Fort Lauderdale Beach: Beautiful beaches with a more relaxed vibe than Miami
Everglades Tours: Explore Florida's unique ecosystem
Museum of Discovery and Science: Interactive educational exhibits
Bonnet House Museum & Gardens: Historic waterfront estate with art and gardens
Flamingo Gardens: Botanical garden and wildlife sanctuary
NSU Art Museum: Modern and contemporary art collection
Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi: Scenic transportation along Fort Lauderdale's waterways
4. Port Tampa Bay: "Port of Possibilities"
Location: Tampa, FL
Port Tampa Bay offers cruisers a convenient alternative on Florida's west coast. With easy access from Tampa International Airport, this port provides a more relaxed embarkation experience than some of the busier east coast ports.
Cruise Lines:
Parking Information:
Channelside Parking Garage directly across from cruise terminals
Current rates: Approximately $15 per day for standard vehicles
Convenient covered walkway connecting garage to terminals
Payment can be made in advance or upon return
Security personnel and CCTV monitoring 24/7
ADA accessible spaces available on all levels
Several nearby private parking options with shuttle service for budget-conscious travelers
Book online at Port Tampa Bay's official parking page
Nearby Attractions:
Tampa Riverwalk: 2.6-mile waterfront pathway with restaurants and attractions
Florida Aquarium: Marine life exhibits and interactive experiences
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay: Thrilling theme park with rides and animal encounters
Ybor City: Historic district known for Cuban culture and lively nightlife
ZooTampa at Lowry Park: Award-winning zoo with over 1,300 animals
The Dali Museum: World's largest collection of Salvador Dali works outside Spain
Clearwater Beach: Consistently ranked among America's best beaches
Tampa Bay History Center: Interactive museum exploring Florida's history
5. Port of Jacksonville (JAXPORT): "Gateway to the Caribbean"
Location: Jacksonville, FL
JAXPORT offers cruises primarily to the Bahamas, making it a convenient option for residents of northeast Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina who prefer driving to their embarkation port rather than flying.
Cruise Lines:
Parking Information:
On-site parking available at the JAXPORT Cruise Terminal
Current rates: Approximately $15 per day for standard vehicles
Secure, fenced lot with 24-hour security
No advance reservations required; first-come, first-served
Payment methods include credit cards and cash
Free passenger drop-off/pick-up area available
No shuttle needed as parking is adjacent to the terminal
For current parking information, visit JAXPORT's cruise parking page
Nearby Attractions:
Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens: Award-winning animal exhibits
Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens: Art collections and riverfront gardens
Amelia Island: Charming coastal community with pristine beaches
Downtown Jacksonville: Riverfront entertainment district
Kingsley Plantation: Historic site with one of Florida's oldest standing plantation houses
Little Talbot Island State Park: Pristine barrier island with beaches and maritime forests
Museum of Science & History (MOSH): Interactive exhibits on science, history, and innovation
St. Augustine: America's oldest city is just a short drive south
6. Port of Palm Beach: "Small but Mighty"
Location: Riviera Beach, FL
The Port of Palm Beach is one of Florida's smaller cruise ports but offers convenient access to the Bahamas with short cruises perfect for first-timers or those seeking a quick getaway.
Cruise Lines:
Margaritaville at Sea Paradise (formerly Bahamas Paradise Cruise Line)
Parking Information:
On-site parking available directly at the cruise terminal
Current rates: Approximately $19 per day for standard vehicles
Secure, well-lit parking area with security surveillance
No advance reservations needed
Pay stations accept cash and credit cards
Covered parking area protects vehicles from sun and weather
ADA accessible spaces available near terminal entrance
Additional information available on the Port of Palm Beach parking page
Nearby Attractions:
Peanut Island: Popular spot for snorkeling and picnicking
Lion Country Safari: Drive-through wildlife preserve
Downtown West Palm Beach: Shopping and dining at Rosemary Square
Palm Beach: Luxurious shopping and pristine beaches
Norton Museum of Art: Internationally known museum with diverse art collections
Mounts Botanical Garden: Palm Beach County's oldest and largest public garden
Flagler Museum: Henry Flagler's grand Gilded Age estate
MacArthur Beach State Park: Natural barrier island habitat with pristine beaches
7. Port of Key West: "Southernmost Cruise Port"
Location: Key West, FL
The Port of Key West primarily serves as a port of call rather than a departure port, welcoming ships from major cruise lines stopping during Caribbean and Bahamas itineraries.
Cruise Lines:
Parking Information:
Since Key West primarily serves as a port of call rather than a departure port, there's no dedicated cruise terminal parking
For tourists visiting via cruise ships, downtown public parking is available
Mallory Square Parking Lot near the cruise dock
Garages at Old Town and Fleming Street
Street parking with metering throughout downtown Key West
Visit City of Key West Parking for current rates and locations
Nearby Attractions:
Mallory Square: Famous for sunset celebrations
Ernest Hemingway Home: Historic residence of the famous author
Duval Street: Lively strip of bars, restaurants, and shops
Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory: Tranquil attraction featuring hundreds of butterflies
Dry Tortugas National Park: Remote island park with historic Fort Jefferson and pristine snorkeling
Southernmost Point Buoy: Iconic landmark marking the southernmost point in the continental US
Key West Lighthouse & Keeper's Quarters: Historic lighthouse with panoramic views of the island
Mel Fisher Maritime Museum: Museum displaying treasures from shipwrecks discovered by famous treasure hunter
Another Way to Get There: The Brightline Advantage
Florida's new high-speed rail service, Brightline, has become a game-changer for cruisers traveling between major Florida cities. This modern train connects Miami, Aventura, Fort Lauderdale, Boca Raton, West Palm Beach, and Orlando, making it easier than ever to reach your cruise port without dealing with Florida's notorious traffic.
Brightline offers several key advantages for cruise passengers:
Convenient Port Access: Brightline stations are relatively close to cruise ports in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and West Palm Beach. PortMiami is just over a mile from the Miami station, while Port Everglades is approximately 3.5 miles from the Fort Lauderdale station.
Integrated Transportation: Passengers can purchase fares that include Uber rides to or from cruise ports, creating a seamless transportation experience.
Traffic Avoidance: Brightline trains travel at speeds up to 125 mph on certain stretches, helping passengers avoid the congested I-95 corridor.
Airport Connections: The Orlando station is located at Orlando International Airport (MCO), making it convenient for cruisers flying into Orlando who want to embark from a South Florida port.
Family-Friendly Options: Brightline offers kid-friendly fares, making it an economical choice for families traveling to cruise ports.
The train service allows cruisers to combine attractions in South Florida and Orlando in a single trip without relying on rental cars. For example, you could fly into Orlando, visit the theme parks, take Brightline to Miami, and then embark on a Caribbean cruise—all without the hassle of driving.
Florida's Private Cruise Destinations: Island Paradises
One of Florida's unique cruise advantages is proximity to cruise line private islands in the Bahamas. These exclusive destinations are accessible only to cruise passengers and offer pristine beaches, water activities, and amenities without the crowds:
Royal Caribbean: Perfect Day at CocoCay
Located in the Bahamas' Berry Islands
Features Thrill Waterpark with 13 waterslides including Daredevil's Peak, North America's tallest waterslide
Up-Up-and-Away helium balloon ride offers panoramic views from 450 feet
Accessible from Port Canaveral, PortMiami and Port Everglades sailings
Disney Cruise Line: Castaway Cay
Disney's private Bahamian island with separate areas for families, teens, and adults
Features Disney character appearances and themed activities
Clear waters ideal for snorkeling Disney's underwater surprises
Primarily accessible from Port Canaveral voyages
Norwegian Cruise Line: Great Stirrup Cay
Recently renovated with luxury beach villas and an exclusive Silver Cove retreat
Zipline course crosses the island for aerial views
Complimentary tram service around the 250-acre island
Accessible from PortMiami and Port Canaveral sailings
MSC Cruises: Ocean Cay Marine Reserve
MSC's eco-friendly private island opened in 2019
Features marine sanctuary and coral nursery
Eight beaches and a 360° Lighthouse Bar with panoramic views
Accessible from PortMiami sailings
Holland America/Carnival: Half Moon Cay
Shared private island used by both cruise lines
Consistently rated as one of the best private islands
Features horseback riding in the ocean and stingray encounters
Accessible from Port Everglades and PortMiami sailings
Plan It!
When selecting your ideal Florida cruise port, consider these factors:
Flight Options: Ports near major airports (like Port Everglades near FLL) can reduce transfer times and costs.
Desired Destinations: Different ports specialize in various itineraries—Miami and Fort Lauderdale offer the most diverse options, while Port Canaveral is ideal for Bahamas cruises.
Pre/Post-Cruise Activities: Consider what you want to do before or after your cruise. Port Canaveral is perfect for theme park enthusiasts, while Miami offers vibrant nightlife and beaches.
Transportation Preferences: If you prefer not to drive, consider ports accessible via Brightline or with good public transportation options.
Parking Costs: If driving to your cruise, compare parking rates across ports—Tampa and Jacksonville typically offer more economical options than Miami.
Private Island Access: If visiting a cruise line's private island is important, check which Florida ports offer itineraries that include these destinations.
Pack your sense of adventure, your sunscreen, and maybe an extra swimsuit – Florida cruising is all about having fun without overthinking it. Whether you're sailing from Miami, Port Canaveral or any of Florida's awesome ports, the vacation magic starts the moment you spot your ship at the terminal.
Now stop reading about cruising and go actually book one! The buffet is waiting, the pool deck is calling, and there's a lounge chair somewhere with your name on it. See you onboard!