Cheap Hotels in Fort Lauderdale Near Cruise Port for Budget Travelers

Why Fort Lauderdale Is a Top Choice for Cruise Travelers

Fort Lauderdale, often called the “Venice of America” due to its intricate network of canals and waterways, is more than just a sun-soaked beach destination. It’s a premier gateway to the Caribbean and beyond, with the bustling Port Everglades serving as one of the busiest cruise ports in the world. Each year, millions of travelers pass through this coastal hub, embarking on luxury cruises, family vacations, and tropical getaways. But for budget-conscious travelers, the challenge often lies not in the cruise itself, but in finding cheap hotels in Fort Lauderdale near cruise port that are both affordable and conveniently located.

The good news is that Fort Lauderdale offers a surprisingly diverse range of budget-friendly accommodations just minutes from the terminal. Whether you’re arriving a day early to avoid pre-cruise stress or staying post-voyage to explore the city, there are smart, wallet-friendly options that don’t sacrifice comfort, cleanliness, or convenience. From well-known hotel chains to hidden local gems, this guide will walk you through the best affordable hotels near Port Everglades, offering practical tips, insider insights, and real-world recommendations to help you stretch your travel budget without cutting corners on quality.

Top Budget-Friendly Hotels Near Port Everglades

When searching for cheap hotels in Fort Lauderdale near cruise port, proximity is key—especially if you’re carrying luggage or want to minimize pre-cruise transportation costs. The following hotels stand out for their combination of low nightly rates, clean rooms, free amenities, and easy access to Port Everglades (typically within a 5- to 15-minute drive).

1. La Quinta by Wyndham Fort Lauderdale Airport

Located just 3 miles from Port Everglades, this budget-friendly hotel offers a reliable blend of comfort and value. With nightly rates often under $100 (especially in the off-season), it’s a favorite among cruise travelers. Guests enjoy:

• Free hot breakfast (scrambled eggs, waffles, fruit, and coffee)
• Complimentary airport and port shuttle service (reservations required)
• Outdoor pool and fitness center
• Pet-friendly rooms (great for those traveling with furry companions)
• Free high-speed Wi-Fi

Pro tip: Book at least 30 days in advance and use Wyndham Rewards for additional discounts. The shuttle to the cruise terminal runs every hour from 6:00 AM to 10:00 AM, making it ideal for early embarkation days.

2. Red Roof PLUS+ Fort Lauderdale

This no-frills, highly rated option is a top pick for cheap stays near the cruise port. At around $75–$90 per night, it’s one of the most affordable hotels with consistent guest satisfaction. Located just 4 miles from Port Everglades, it offers:

• Free Wi-Fi and parking
• Pet-friendly policy (no extra fees)
• Renovated rooms with flat-screen TVs and microwaves
• 24-hour front desk and security
• On-site laundry facilities

While there’s no free breakfast, the hotel partners with nearby cafes for discounted breakfast coupons. The free Uber-style shuttle service (via a third-party provider) is available for cruise drop-offs—just book 24 hours in advance.

3. Holiday Inn Express & Suites Fort Lauderdale Airport/Cruise Port

Don’t let the name fool you—this affordable hotel is priced competitively (often $110–$130) and offers excellent value. Located 2.5 miles from the port, it’s a favorite for families and business travelers alike. Key perks include:

• Free Express Start breakfast bar with eggs, sausages, pancakes, and more
• Complimentary shuttle to both Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport and Port Everglades
• Indoor pool and fitness center
• Spacious rooms with mini-fridges and microwaves
• IHG Rewards Club points for frequent travelers

One standout feature: the hotel offers a “Stay & Cruise” package that includes parking for up to 14 days during your cruise—saving you $25–$40 compared to port parking.

4. Extended Stay America – Fort Lauderdale – Convention Center

Perfect for travelers staying 2–3 nights, this budget extended-stay hotel offers kitchenettes, making it ideal for those who want to cook a few meals and save on dining costs. Located 3.2 miles from the cruise port, it features:

• Rooms with full kitchens (stove, microwave, refrigerator, cookware)
• Free Wi-Fi and on-site laundry
• Weekly rates as low as $400 (great for longer stays)
• Pet-friendly rooms
• Free grab-and-go breakfast (muffins, fruit, coffee)

While there’s no shuttle, rideshare services (Uber/Lyft) cost only $8–$12 to the port. This is a smart choice for families or groups looking to save on food and lodging.

5. Motel 6 Fort Lauderdale

For travelers seeking the absolute cheapest option, Motel 6 delivers basic comfort at rock-bottom prices—often under $70 per night. Located 4.5 miles from Port Everglades, it’s clean, safe, and surprisingly modern. Highlights:

• Free Wi-Fi and parking
• Pet-friendly (no extra charge)
• Renovated rooms with flat-screen TVs
• 24-hour front desk
• Outdoor pool

Note: No free breakfast or shuttle, but the low rate more than compensates. Use apps like Hopper or Priceline to score last-minute deals as low as $55.

How to Save Even More on Hotel Bookings

Finding a cheap hotel is only half the battle—knowing how to book smart can save you an extra 10–30% on your stay. Here are proven strategies to stretch your travel budget further:

Book During the Off-Season

Fort Lauderdale’s peak cruise season runs from December to April, coinciding with winter escapes. Rates spike during this time, especially around holidays. To save big:

• Travel in May, September, or October—these months have lower demand, fewer crowds, and better hotel rates.
• Hurricane season (June–November) brings lower prices, but always check weather forecasts and consider travel insurance.
• Weekdays are cheaper than weekends. If possible, arrive on a Monday or Tuesday instead of Friday or Saturday.

Example: A room at La Quinta that costs $140 on a Saturday night in March may drop to $85 on a Tuesday in September.

Use Price Comparison Tools and Alerts

Don’t rely on a single booking site. Use these tools to find the best deals:

• Google Hotels – Aggregates rates from Booking.com, Expedia, Hotels.com, and more. Use the “Price Graph” to see historical trends.
• Hopper – Predicts price drops and sends alerts when rates are lowest. It saved users an average of 25% in 2023.
• Kayak – Offers “Price Forecast” to tell you if now is the best time to book.
• Skyscanner Hotels – Compares prices and includes cashback offers.

Pro tip: Always check the hotel’s direct website after finding a deal. Many offer “Best Rate Guarantee” and include free perks (like breakfast or parking) not available on third-party sites.

Join Loyalty Programs

Even if you’re not a frequent traveler, signing up for free hotel loyalty programs can unlock instant savings:

• Wyndham Rewards – Earn points at La Quinta, Days Inn, and Super 8. Redeem for free stays or discounts.
• IHG Rewards Club – Get free breakfast and room upgrades at Holiday Inn Express.
• Choice Privileges – Earn points at Comfort Inn, Quality Inn, and Rodeway Inn.
• Marriott Bonvoy – Even budget brands like Fairfield Inn offer perks for members.

Bonus: Many programs offer “Stay One Night, Get One Free” promotions for new members.

Consider Package Deals

Booking your hotel and cruise together (or hotel + flight) can save you money. Look for:

• “Stay & Cruise” packages – Many hotels partner with cruise lines to offer bundled rates with free parking or shuttle service.
• Air + Hotel bundles – Sites like Expedia or Travelocity often offer 15–20% off when booking both together.
• AAA, AARP, or military discounts – Always ask! These can save 10–15% off standard rates.

Example: A 3-night stay at Holiday Inn Express + round-trip airport transfer + cruise parking for $350 (vs. $450 if booked separately).

Transportation Options: Getting to Port Everglades on a Budget

Once you’ve secured a cheap hotel, the next challenge is affordable transportation to Port Everglades. Avoiding expensive taxis or rental cars can save you $50–$100 per trip. Here are the best low-cost options:

Hotel Shuttles (Free or Low-Cost)

Many budget hotels near the cruise port offer complimentary shuttle service—a huge perk for travelers with luggage. Always confirm:

• Shuttle schedule (frequency, operating hours)
• Reservation requirements (some require 24-hour notice)
• Drop-off location at the terminal (some go directly to the cruise check-in desk)

Hotels with reliable shuttles: La Quinta, Holiday Inn Express, and Red Roof PLUS+. Some even offer return shuttles post-cruise (book in advance).

Rideshare Services (Uber/Lyft)

For hotels without shuttles, Uber and Lyft are the most cost-effective choices. Average costs from popular budget hotels:

• La Quinta to Port Everglades: $10–$14
• Red Roof PLUS+ to Port Everglades: $12–$16
• Motel 6 to Port Everglades: $14–$18

Tip: Use Uber Reserve or Lyft Scheduled Rides to lock in a fixed price and avoid surge pricing during peak embarkation times (6:00–9:00 AM).

Public Transit (Bus)

Fort Lauderdale’s Broward County Transit (BCT) offers a budget-friendly option. Take the #10 bus from the Fort Lauderdale Central Terminal (near the airport) to the Port Everglades Terminal. Cost: $2.00 one-way.

• Frequency: Every 30–60 minutes (check BCT schedule)
• Travel time: 20–30 minutes
• Best for: Solo travelers with light luggage

Note: Not ideal for families or those with large suitcases. Use only if you’re on an ultra-tight budget.

Rental Cars (Only If Needed)

Rental cars are not recommended for one-way cruise trips due to high drop-off fees (often $100+). However, if you plan to explore Fort Lauderdale post-cruise, consider:

• Booking a one-way rental with companies like Hertz or Enterprise (compare drop-off fees).
• Using Airbnb or VRBO with free parking and a car included.
• Opting for car-sharing services like Zipcar (hourly rates, no drop-off fees).

For most travelers, rideshare or shuttle is cheaper and easier than renting a car just for port transfer.

What to Look for in a Budget Hotel Near the Cruise Port

Not all cheap hotels are created equal. To avoid disappointment, focus on these key factors when choosing your accommodation:

Proximity and Accessibility

Look for hotels within 5 miles of Port Everglades. Use Google Maps to measure the actual drive time—some “nearby” hotels are on the opposite side of the airport, adding 20+ minutes to your commute.

• Ideal locations: Fort Lauderdale Airport area, 17th Street Causeway, or along SE 17th Street.
• Avoid hotels near I-95 or downtown Fort Lauderdale—these are farther and less convenient.

Free Amenities That Add Value

Even budget hotels can offer perks that save you money:

• Free breakfast – Saves $15–$20 per person per day.
• Free Wi-Fi – Essential for checking cruise updates or maps.
• Free parking – Crucial if you’re driving to the hotel.
• Free shuttle – Avoids $15+ rideshare fees.
• Pet-friendly policy – No extra fees for pets (saves $25+).

Prioritize hotels that offer at least 2–3 of these.

Cleanliness and Safety

Read recent guest reviews on TripAdvisor, Google, and Booking.com. Look for keywords like:

• “Clean,” “quiet,” “safe,” “friendly staff”
• Avoid reviews mentioning “dirty,” “smell,” “bugs,” or “rude staff”

Check the hotel’s cleanliness score (usually 4.0+ on Google is a good benchmark).

Flexible Booking and Cancellation

Always book a refundable rate (even if it costs $5–$10 more). Cruise itineraries can change, and you don’t want to lose money if your flight is delayed or the cruise is rescheduled.

Insider Tips for a Stress-Free Cruise Start

Your hotel stay is just the beginning. Use these pro tips to make your pre-cruise experience smooth and affordable:

Arrive a Day Early

Never fly in on the same day as your cruise. A 1-night hotel stay reduces the risk of missing your ship due to flight delays or traffic. It also gives you time to:

• Rest and recover from travel
• Buy last-minute supplies (sunscreen, snacks)
• Explore Fort Lauderdale’s beach or Las Olas Boulevard

Pack Smart

Use a carry-on bag for essentials (meds, swimsuit, ID, cruise documents). This way, if your checked luggage is delayed, you’re not stranded without basics.

Pre-Book Everything

• Reserve your hotel shuttle 24–48 hours in advance.
• Pre-order breakfast or coffee if not included.
• Book your cruise terminal check-in time via the cruise line’s app.

Explore Free Local Attractions

Fort Lauderdale has plenty of free or cheap activities to enjoy before your cruise:

• Fort Lauderdale Beach – Free access, lifeguards, and clean sand.
• Hugh Taylor Birch State Park – $6 entry, but free walking trails and kayak rentals.
• Las Olas Boulevard – Free to walk, with shops, cafes, and art galleries.

Use Your Hotel’s Luggage Storage

If you arrive early or leave late, ask about free luggage storage. This lets you explore the city without dragging bags around.

Comparison Table: Top 5 Budget Hotels Near Port Everglades

Hotel	Distance to Port	Avg. Nightly Rate	Free Breakfast	Free Shuttle	Parking	Pet-Friendly	Guest Rating (Google)
La Quinta by Wyndham	3 miles	$90–$120	Yes	Yes (airport & port)	Free	Yes	4.2
Red Roof PLUS+	4 miles	$75–$90	No (discount coupons)	Yes (Uber-style)	Free	Yes	4.0
Holiday Inn Express	2.5 miles	$110–$130	Yes	Yes	Free (Stay & Cruise pkg)	No	4.4
Extended Stay America	3.2 miles	$85–$110	Grab-and-go	No	Free	Yes	4.1
Motel 6	4.5 miles	$65–$80	No	No	Free	Yes	3.8

Final Thoughts: Smart Stays for Smart Travelers

Finding cheap hotels in Fort Lauderdale near cruise port doesn’t mean settling for subpar accommodations. With careful planning, smart booking strategies, and a focus on value-added amenities, you can enjoy a comfortable, stress-free stay just minutes from Port Everglades—all while keeping your budget intact.

Whether you choose the reliable La Quinta, the no-frills Motel 6, or the family-friendly Holiday Inn Express, the key is to prioritize proximity, free perks, and guest satisfaction. Add in free shuttles, loyalty rewards, and off-season travel, and you’ll save enough to splurge on a nice dinner or an extra excursion during your cruise.

Remember: Your pre-cruise hotel is more than just a place to sleep—it’s the foundation of a smooth, enjoyable vacation. By choosing wisely and planning ahead, you’ll start your journey relaxed, well-rested, and ready to sail. So book that affordable room, pack your bags, and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime—all without breaking the bank.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the cheapest hotels in Fort Lauderdale near the cruise port?

Budget-friendly options like the Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort, Rodeway Inn, and Red Carpet Inn offer affordable rates within a 5–10 minute drive of Port Everglades. These cheap hotels in Fort Lauderdale near the cruise port provide basic amenities and free shuttle services to simplify your travel.

Do budget hotels near Fort Lauderdale cruise port offer free shuttles?

Yes, many low-cost hotels like the Sleep Inn & Suites and Motel 6 provide complimentary shuttle services to Port Everglades. Confirm availability during booking to avoid last-minute surprises.

Are there any last-minute deals for hotels near the Fort Lauderdale cruise port?

Apps like HotelTonight or last-minute booking sites often list discounted rates for cheap hotels in Fort Lauderdale near the cruise port. Booking 1–2 weeks ahead can also unlock lower prices due to flexible cancellation policies.

Which budget-friendly hotels are within walking distance of the cruise port?

The Crowne Plaza Fort Lauderdale is a rare budget option within a 15-minute walk of Port Everglades. Most other affordable hotels require a short drive or shuttle ride, so check parking fees if driving.

Do cheap hotels near the cruise port include breakfast?

Many budget options, such as the Best Western Plus and La Quinta Inn, include free continental breakfast to help travelers save on meals. Verify inclusions when reserving to avoid unexpected charges.

Is it safe to stay in budget hotels near Fort Lauderdale cruise port?

Most cheap hotels in Fort Lauderdale near the cruise port are in secure areas with 24-hour surveillance and positive guest reviews. Stick to reputable chains and read recent reviews for safety insights.