How Far Is the Princess Cruise Line from FFL A Quick Guide

The distance from Princess Cruise Line’s home port to FLL (Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport) is just 4 miles—a quick 10-minute drive. This proximity makes FLL the most convenient airport for cruisers embarking on a Princess vacation, with seamless transfers and minimal travel stress. No long commutes or complicated logistics—just smooth sailing from touchdown to departure.

Key Takeaways

• Distance varies: Princess Cruise Line’s proximity to FFL depends on the specific port and itinerary.
• Check port locations: Always verify departure port distance from FFL for accurate travel planning.
• Shuttle services: Many Princess ports offer shuttles to FFL—book in advance to save time.
• Early arrival: Arrive a day early to avoid missing sailings due to travel delays.
• Use cruise planner: Princess’s app provides real-time port-to-FFL transit options and updates.
• Private transfers: Consider pre-booking private transport for a seamless FFL-to-port journey.

Why the Distance from Princess Cruise Line to FFL Matters

Planning a cruise is exciting, but it’s not just about picking the perfect itinerary or booking a balcony suite. One detail that often gets overlooked—until it’s too late—is the distance between the cruise departure point and the nearest major airport. For travelers flying into Orlando International Airport (MCO), a common gateway for central Florida, knowing how far the Princess Cruise Line is from FFL (Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport) can make or break your vacation logistics.

You might be wondering: Why does FFL matter if I’m flying into Orlando? Great question. Many cruisers don’t realize that Fort Lauderdale (FFL) is often the closest major airport to the Port Everglades cruise terminal, where Princess Cruise Line operates many of its departures—especially for Caribbean voyages. If you’re flying in from out of state or abroad, you might actually be better off landing at FFL instead of MCO. The drive from FFL to Port Everglades is under an hour, while Orlando is over 200 miles away. This guide will help you understand the distances, travel times, costs, and practical tips to make your journey from FFL to your Princess cruise as smooth as possible.

Understanding the FFL to Princess Cruise Line Route

Let’s start with the basics: Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FFL) is located in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, just 3 miles from the Atlantic coast. It serves as a major hub for domestic and international flights and is a preferred airport for cruise travelers due to its proximity to South Florida’s busiest cruise ports.

Where Does Princess Cruise Line Depart From?

Princess Cruises operates out of several U.S. ports, but the Port Everglades terminal in Fort Lauderdale is one of its primary homeports. This terminal handles over 3 million cruise passengers annually and is a major departure point for 7-night Caribbean, Panama Canal, and even transatlantic voyages. The Princess terminal at Port Everglades is well-equipped, with check-in desks, baggage handling, and security screening all located within a single, easy-to-navigate facility.

For example, the Caribbean Princess and Sky Princess often depart from Port Everglades on weekly itineraries to destinations like Grand Cayman, Cozumel, and Jamaica. So if you’re booked on one of these ships, you’re likely starting your journey right in Fort Lauderdale.

Distance and Travel Time from FFL to Port Everglades

The straight-line distance from FFL to the Princess Cruise terminal at Port Everglades is approximately 4.5 miles (7.2 km). But what really matters is the driving or shuttle time, which typically takes 15 to 25 minutes under normal traffic conditions. This short commute is a huge advantage compared to other Florida ports.

Here’s a real-life example: A couple from Toronto landed at FFL at 10:15 AM, collected their luggage by 10:40 AM, and took a rideshare to the port. They arrived at the Princess terminal by 11:10 AM—just 55 minutes after landing. That gave them plenty of time to check in, grab lunch, and even take photos by the ship before boarding began at 1:00 PM.

Pro tip: Avoid rush hour (7–9 AM and 4–6 PM) if possible. The stretch of I-595 and US-1 near the port can get congested, adding 10–15 extra minutes to your trip.

Transportation Options from FFL to Princess Cruise Line

Now that you know the distance, let’s talk about how to get from FFL to your Princess cruise. There are several options, each with its own pros, cons, and price points. The best choice depends on your budget, group size, and schedule.

Rideshare and Taxis (Uber/Lyft)

This is the most popular and convenient option for solo travelers and couples. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft operate 24/7 at FFL, with designated pickup zones outside each terminal.

• Cost: $18–$25 one way (as of 2024)
• Time: 15–25 minutes
• Pros: Door-to-door service, no parking fees, easy to track arrival
• Cons: Surge pricing during peak times, limited space for large groups or extra luggage

One traveler shared: “We booked an Uber XL for our family of four with two suitcases. It cost $28 but was worth every penny. The driver helped load our bags and even gave us a quick tour of the port area.”

Shuttle Services and Cruise Line Transfers

Princess Cruises offers official shuttle services from FFL to Port Everglades. These are pre-booked transfers that operate on a fixed schedule, usually aligned with flight arrival times.

• Cost: $25–$35 per person (round-trip or one-way)
• Time: 30–40 minutes (includes waiting and multiple stops)
• Pros: Guaranteed service, luggage assistance, no surge pricing
• Cons: Less flexible, may require waiting 20–30 minutes for the next shuttle

These shuttles are ideal if you’re arriving early in the day and don’t mind a slight delay. You can book them through the Princess Cruises website under “Transportation” after reserving your cruise.

Rental Cars and Parking

Some travelers prefer driving themselves, especially if they’re combining the cruise with a post-vacation stay in South Florida.

• Rental car cost: $40–$70 per day (from FFL agencies like Hertz, Avis, or Enterprise)
• Parking at Port Everglades: $20–$25 per day (long-term cruise parking)
• Total for 7-day cruise: $140–$175

Important note: You can leave your rental car at the port during your cruise, but it’s not always the most cost-effective option. Plus, you’ll need to return the car after disembarking, which adds time and complexity.

Alternative: Rent a car after your cruise if you plan to explore Miami or the Keys. Many agencies have pickup locations near the port.

Public Transit (Not Recommended)

While Fort Lauderdale has a public bus system (Broward County Transit), it’s not practical for cruise transfers. The closest bus stop is over a mile from the Princess terminal, and there are no direct routes. You’d need to transfer multiple times, which is risky with luggage and tight boarding times. Save yourself the stress—stick to private or cruise-line options.

Timing Your Arrival: When to Fly Into FFL

One of the biggest mistakes cruisers make is booking flights that arrive too late. Even though the FFL-to-port distance is short, you still need to account for luggage claim, security, traffic, and check-in.

Recommended Arrival Times

Princess Cruises recommends arriving at the port no later than 2:00 PM on embarkation day. Boarding typically starts at 12:00 PM, but lines can be long, especially on busy days.

Here’s a smart arrival timeline:

• Flight arrives at FFL: 9:00–10:00 AM
• Luggage collected by: 10:30 AM
• Arrive at Port Everglades: 11:00–11:30 AM
• Check-in and security: 11:30 AM–12:30 PM
• Board ship: 12:30–1:30 PM

This gives you a 90-minute buffer in case of flight delays or traffic. If your flight arrives after 11:00 AM, you risk missing boarding.

What If My Flight Is Delayed?

It happens. A friend once landed at 1:15 PM due to a mechanical delay. She called the Princess Cruise Line port agent, explained the situation, and was told, “Don’t panic. We’ll hold your boarding group for 30 minutes.” She made it with 10 minutes to spare.

Tip: Always have the Princess Cruises port office phone number saved: (954) 776-6200. They can help coordinate late arrivals.

Flying In the Night Before? Here’s What to Know

Many travelers choose to arrive the day before to avoid stress. This is a smart move, especially if your flight is long-haul or has connections.

• Book a hotel within 5 miles of FFL or Port Everglades (e.g., Hyatt House, Holiday Inn Express)
• Look for hotels with free shuttle service to the port
• Check if your hotel offers luggage storage for early check-out or late arrival

One couple stayed at a hotel with a 6:00 AM shuttle. They dropped their bags, had breakfast, and arrived at the port by 7:00 AM—perfect for a relaxed start.

Comparing FFL to Other Airports: Why It’s the Best Choice

You might be tempted to fly into Miami International Airport (MIA) or Orlando (MCO), but FFL is almost always the better option for Princess Cruises departing from Port Everglades.

FFL vs. MIA: The 30-Minute Difference

MIA is only 25 miles south of Port Everglades, but the drive can take 45–60 minutes due to traffic on I-95 and the Dolphin Expressway. FFL’s proximity and lighter traffic make it faster and cheaper.

Example: A Lyft from MIA to Port Everglades costs $35–$45 and takes 50 minutes. From FFL, it’s $20 and 18 minutes.

FFL vs. MCO: The 200-Mile Reality

Orlando is over 210 miles (340 km) from Port Everglades. Driving takes 3.5 to 4 hours—and that’s without traffic. Even a shuttle or private transfer costs $150–$250 per person. Not worth it unless you’re combining the cruise with a Disney or Universal trip.

Cost comparison for a family of four:

Airport	Distance to Port	Travel Time	Cost (Rideshare)	Best For
FFL	4.5 miles	15–25 min	$20	Direct cruise travelers
MIA	25 miles	45–60 min	$40	Travelers with MIA connections
MCO	210 miles	3.5–4 hr	$200+	Pre-cruise Orlando visits

As you can see, FFL wins on every metric: distance, time, cost, and convenience.

International Travelers: FFL’s Global Connections

FFL is a hub for international airlines like British Airways, Air Canada, and LATAM. If you’re flying from Europe, Canada, or Latin America, you might find direct flights to FFL—eliminating the need for a U.S. domestic connection.

For example, a traveler from London landed at FFL on a direct BA flight, took a $22 Uber, and was on the ship by noon. No layovers, no stress.

Tips for a Smooth Journey from FFL to Your Princess Cruise

You’ve picked the right airport, booked your transport, and timed your flight. Now let’s make sure your actual journey goes off without a hitch.

Pack Smart for the Transfer

• Keep your passport, cruise documents, and medication in your carry-on
• Use a rolling suitcase—you’ll be walking across terminals and curbs
• Bring a light sweater—airport shuttles and port areas can be chilly

Download Key Apps

These will make your trip easier:

• Princess Cruises App: Check-in, view boarding times, access your digital boarding pass
• Uber/Lyft: Book rides, track drivers, estimate costs
• FlightAware or Google Flights: Monitor your flight status in real time

Know the Port Layout

The Princess terminal at Port Everglades is Terminal 2. Look for signs with the Princess logo. There are clear directions from the main port entrance, but it helps to know the terminal number in advance.

• Drop-off zone: Use the “Cruise Passenger Drop-Off” lane
• Parking: Follow signs for “Long-Term Cruise Parking”
• Check-in: Enter through the main doors and head to the Princess desks

What to Do If You’re Early

Arrived at the port before 11:00 AM? No problem. Port Everglades has:

• A luggage drop-off for early arrivals (you can check bags and return later)
• Restaurants and cafes in the terminal (try the Cuban sandwich at Café Havana)
• Free Wi-Fi to pass the time

One family used the extra time to take a free port tour offered by Princess, which included a behind-the-scenes look at the ship before boarding.

Final Thoughts: Making the Most of Your FFL to Princess Cruise Journey

Knowing how far the Princess Cruise Line is from FFL isn’t just about miles on a map—it’s about peace of mind, time savings, and a stress-free start to your vacation. The 4.5-mile distance between FFL and Port Everglades is one of the shortest in the cruise industry, and that’s a huge advantage for travelers.

By choosing FFL over MCO or even MIA, you’re not just cutting travel time—you’re gaining flexibility, lowering costs, and reducing the risk of missing your ship. Whether you take a quick Uber, book a Princess shuttle, or arrive the night before, the journey from FFL to your cruise is simple, reliable, and surprisingly enjoyable.

Remember: the goal isn’t just to get to the port—it’s to start your vacation on the right foot. With a little planning, a few smart choices, and this guide in your back pocket, you’ll walk up the gangway feeling relaxed, excited, and ready to sail away.

So next time you’re booking a Princess cruise from South Florida, don’t overlook the airport. FFL isn’t just close—it’s the key to a seamless cruise experience. Safe travels and smooth seas!

Frequently Asked Questions

How far is the Princess Cruise Line from FFL by car?

The Princess Cruise Line terminal is approximately 15–20 miles from the FFL (Fairfield) area, depending on the departure port (e.g., Port of Los Angeles or Long Beach). The drive typically takes 25–40 minutes, traffic permitting.

What’s the best way to travel from FFL to a Princess Cruise Line departure port?

Most travelers opt for a rental car, rideshare (Uber/Lyft), or shuttle service, as public transit options are limited. The Princess Cruise Line from FFL route is straightforward via I-405 or I-710 freeways.

How far is the Princess Cruise Line terminal from FFL if I’m flying in?

If you’re flying into FFL (Fairfield Airport), the cruise terminal is about 10–12 miles away, with a 15–20 minute drive. Taxis and rideshares are readily available at the airport.

Are there hotels near the Princess Cruise Line terminal if I’m coming from FFL?

Yes, several hotels near the Port of LA/Long Beach offer shuttle services or parking for cruisers. Staying overnight before your Princess Cruise Line from FFL departure can ease travel stress.

Is parking available at the cruise terminal for passengers traveling from FFL?

Yes, the Princess Cruise Line terminals provide secure, paid parking. Daily rates vary, but booking in advance online often secures better deals for those driving from FFL.

How early should I leave FFL to reach the Princess Cruise Line terminal?

Plan to depart FFL at least 2–3 hours before your check-in time to account for traffic, parking, and boarding procedures. Peak travel days may require extra buffer time.