What Cruise Lines Go Out of Fort Lauderdale Florida for Your Next Vacation

Fort Lauderdale’s Port Everglades is a premier cruise hub, hosting top lines like Royal Caribbean, Carnival, and Norwegian Cruise Line for unforgettable getaways. Whether you’re dreaming of tropical Caribbean escapes or exotic transatlantic voyages, these major cruise lines offer diverse itineraries and world-class amenities right from this bustling Florida gateway. With year-round sailings and cutting-edge ships, Fort Lauderdale is your launchpad to adventure.

Key Takeaways

• Top cruise lines like Royal Caribbean and Carnival sail from Fort Lauderdale.
• Port Everglades is the main departure point for most major cruise lines.
• Year-round itineraries offer Caribbean, Bahamas, and transatlantic voyages.
• Luxury options include Regent Seven Seas and Oceania Cruises from this port.
• Short cruises to the Bahamas are perfect for quick getaways.
• Book early for best rates on peak-season sailings.

Why Fort Lauderdale Is the Ultimate Cruise Hub

Fort Lauderdale, Florida, is more than just a sun-soaked paradise with golden beaches and vibrant nightlife—it’s a premier gateway to the world’s most sought-after cruise destinations. Nestled along the Atlantic coast, this bustling city is home to the Port Everglades cruise terminal, one of the busiest and most modern cruise ports in the world. With over 4 million passengers embarking each year, Port Everglades ranks among the top three cruise ports globally, offering seamless access to the Caribbean, Mexico, South America, Europe, and even transatlantic voyages. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler, Fort Lauderdale’s strategic location, year-round sunshine, and world-class infrastructure make it an ideal launchpad for your next vacation at sea.

What sets Fort Lauderdale apart is its unparalleled diversity of cruise lines and itineraries. From budget-friendly family cruises to ultra-luxury expeditions, the city caters to every travel style, budget, and destination preference. With direct flights from major U.S. and international cities, convenient parking, and a growing array of pre- and post-cruise amenities, Fort Lauderdale simplifies the entire cruise experience. This blog post dives deep into what cruise lines go out of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, offering you a comprehensive guide to help you choose the perfect cruise line and itinerary for your dream vacation. Whether you’re chasing turquoise waters, cultural exploration, or all-inclusive luxury, Fort Lauderdale has a ship—and a story—waiting for you.

Top Cruise Lines Sailing from Fort Lauderdale

Celebrity Cruises: Modern Luxury and Innovation

Celebrity Cruises is a leader in premium cruising, known for its elegant ships, award-winning dining, and immersive itineraries. With multiple ships based year-round at Port Everglades, Celebrity offers a wide range of voyages, from 4-night weekend escapes to 14-night transatlantic crossings. Their Celebrity Edge and Celebrity Beyond classes feature revolutionary design, including the Magic Carpet—a movable platform that serves as a restaurant, bar, and embarkation point—offering breathtaking ocean views.

Popular itineraries include Eastern and Western Caribbean cruises (7 nights), with stops in Nassau, St. Maarten, and San Juan, as well as longer sailings to the Southern Caribbean and even Europe. Onboard, guests enjoy curated culinary experiences, a world-class spa, and immersive enrichment programs. Tip: Book early for balcony staterooms on the Celebrity Ascent, which sails from Fort Lauderdale starting in late 2024, and take advantage of their “Always Included” pricing, which bundles gratuities, Wi-Fi, and premium drinks.

Royal Caribbean International: Adventure and Family Fun

Royal Caribbean is synonymous with innovation and excitement, and its Fort Lauderdale departures are no exception. The Symphony of the Seas and Harmony of the Seas, two of the world’s largest cruise ships, call Port Everglades home, offering everything from zip lines and surf simulators to robotic cocktail bars and Broadway-style shows. Families and thrill-seekers flock to Royal Caribbean for its Ultimate Abyss slide and North Star observation capsule.

Itineraries range from 3- to 5-night Bahamas getaways to 7- and 8-night Caribbean cruises. The line also offers unique 10- to 14-night “Ultimate Caribbean” voyages that include stops in lesser-known ports like Roatán (Honduras) and Labadee (Haiti). Pro Tip: Royal Caribbean’s “Cruise Planner” lets you pre-book activities, dining, and excursions, ensuring you don’t miss out on high-demand experiences like the FlowRider surf simulator.

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL): Freestyle Cruising and Flexibility

Norwegian Cruise Line, or NCL, pioneered the concept of “freestyle cruising”—no fixed dining times, no formal dress codes, and maximum flexibility. With ships like the Norwegian Escape and Norwegian Encore sailing from Fort Lauderdale, NCL is ideal for travelers who want to set their own pace. The line’s Free at Sea promotion often includes free airfare, specialty dining, shore excursions, and more.

NCL offers 3- to 14-night itineraries, with a strong focus on the Caribbean. Their “Extraordinary Journeys” include longer cruises to the Panama Canal and transatlantic repositioning voyages. Onboard, guests enjoy a wide variety of dining options (20+ restaurants), Broadway shows, and the Waterfront—an open-air promenade with restaurants and bars. Tip: NCL’s “More at Sea” package (available in 2024) adds unlimited Wi-Fi, premium drinks, and shore excursion credits—perfect for budget-conscious travelers.

MSC Cruises: European Flair and Global Appeal

MSC Cruises brings a distinctly European flavor to Fort Lauderdale, with ships like the MSC Seashore and MSC Divina offering Italian-inspired design, Mediterranean cuisine, and family-friendly amenities. Known for its Kids Sail Free promotion, MSC is a top choice for multigenerational families. Their “MSC Yacht Club” provides a luxury enclave with private butlers, exclusive lounges, and priority boarding.

Itineraries include 7-night Eastern and Western Caribbean cruises, with stops in Jamaica, the Dominican Republic, and the Bahamas. MSC also offers longer 10- to 14-night “Grand Voyages” that visit multiple islands and even transatlantic crossings. Pro Tip: MSC’s “Beverage Package” includes premium spirits and wines, making it a great value for adults. Book a balcony cabin for access to the MSC Aurea Spa, which offers discounted treatments on embarkation day.

Oceania Cruises: Culinary Excellence and Intimate Voyages

For travelers seeking a more refined, intimate experience, Oceania Cruises is a standout. With smaller ships like the Insignia and Regatta sailing from Fort Lauderdale, Oceania focuses on destination immersion, gourmet dining, and cultural enrichment. Their “Signature Sailings” feature guest chefs, wine tastings, and expert-led lectures.

Itineraries range from 7-night Caribbean cruises to 20- to 30-night Grand Voyages that explore the Amazon, South America, and even transatlantic routes. Onboard, guests enjoy Jacques Pépin-curated menus, a world-class library, and a relaxed, elegant atmosphere. Tip: Oceania’s “O Life Choice” package includes free shore excursions, beverage packages, or shipboard credit—ideal for maximizing your vacation budget.

Port Everglades: The World-Class Gateway

State-of-the-Art Facilities and Efficiency

Port Everglades is not just a port—it’s a marvel of modern engineering and logistics. With nine cruise terminals, the port can accommodate multiple mega-ships simultaneously, including the largest vessels from Royal Caribbean and MSC. The terminals feature advanced security systems, spacious waiting areas, and dedicated luggage handling zones to streamline embarkation and disembarkation.

The port’s Automated People Mover (APM) connects terminals to parking garages and nearby hotels, reducing walking time. For international travelers, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) facilities are on-site, with mobile passport control kiosks to expedite the process. Tip: Arrive at the port 2–3 hours before your scheduled embarkation time to avoid last-minute stress and take advantage of early boarding for suite guests.

Convenient Access and Transportation Options

Fort Lauderdale’s location makes it easily accessible. The Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) is just 2 miles from Port Everglades, with direct flights from over 70 U.S. cities and international hubs. Most major airlines offer cruise check-in services at FLL, allowing you to check your luggage through to your cabin. Taxis, rideshares (Uber/Lyft), and shuttles are readily available, with dedicated cruise pickup zones.

For those driving, Port Everglades offers secure parking garages with 24/7 surveillance, valet services, and electric vehicle charging stations. Rates range from $22–$35 per day, depending on the garage and season. Pro Tip: Book parking online in advance through the Port Everglades website to secure your spot and avoid price surges during peak season (December–April).

Pre- and Post-Cruise Amenities

Port Everglades is surrounded by a vibrant ecosystem of hotels, restaurants, and attractions. The Hyatt Regency Pier Sixty-Six and Hilton Fort Lauderdale Marina offer cruise packages that include parking, breakfast, and shuttle service to the terminal. Many hotels also provide luggage storage for early arrivals.

Before your cruise, explore the Fort Lauderdale Riverwalk, a scenic promenade with shops, cafes, and art galleries. The Las Olas Boulevard area is perfect for dining and entertainment. After disembarking, consider a post-cruise stay to enjoy Fort Lauderdale’s beaches, Everglades airboat tours, or a day trip to Miami. Tip: Book a hotel with a “cruise concierge” to handle luggage transfers and port drop-offs.

Popular Cruise Itineraries from Fort Lauderdale

Caribbean Escapes: The Classic Choice

The Caribbean is the most popular destination from Fort Lauderdale, with cruises ranging from 3 to 14 nights. Eastern Caribbean itineraries typically include stops in Nassau (Bahamas), St. Thomas (U.S. Virgin Islands), and St. Maarten, known for their white-sand beaches and vibrant cultures. Western Caribbean voyages feature ports like Cozumel (Mexico), Grand Cayman, and Jamaica, offering snorkeling, diving, and Mayan ruins.

For a more exotic experience, Southern Caribbean cruises visit islands like Aruba, Bonaire, and Barbados, with fewer crowds and unique wildlife. Pro Tip: Book a balcony cabin for early morning views of the Caribbean sunrise—it’s worth the upgrade.

Transatlantic and Repositioning Cruises: A Journey of a Lifetime

For adventure seekers, Fort Lauderdale is a launchpad for transatlantic cruises to Europe, often departing in spring (April–May) and fall (September–October). These 10- to 14-night voyages cross the Atlantic Ocean with stops in the Azores, Madeira, or the Canary Islands. Repositioning cruises (e.g., from Europe to the Caribbean) also depart from Fort Lauderdale, offering unique ports like Lisbon and Barcelona.

Onboard, transatlantic cruises feature themed entertainment, enrichment lectures, and relaxed days at sea. Tip: Pack a mix of formal and casual attire—transatlantic voyages often include formal nights and themed deck parties.

Panama Canal and South America: Adventure Awaits

Fort Lauderdale is one of the few U.S. ports offering direct Panama Canal cruises. These 10- to 14-night voyages transit the canal, with stops in Cartagena (Colombia), Puntarenas (Costa Rica), and Puerto Limón. Some itineraries extend to South America, visiting Lima (Peru), Buenos Aires (Argentina), and Rio de Janeiro (Brazil).

Panama Canal cruises are ideal for history buffs and nature lovers, with guided tours of the canal locks, rainforests, and indigenous villages. Pro Tip: Book an inside cabin on the port side of the ship for the best views during the canal transit.

How to Choose the Right Cruise Line for You

Family-Friendly vs. Adults-Only: Matching Your Travel Style

Not all cruise lines cater to the same audience. Royal Caribbean and MSC Cruises excel in family-friendly amenities, with kids’ clubs, water parks, and family suites. For adults, Celebrity Cruises and Oceania Cruises offer a quieter, more sophisticated atmosphere with fewer children onboard.

Norwegian Cruise Line strikes a balance, with “Freestyle Dining” and a mix of family and adult activities. Tip: Check the ship’s passenger demographics—larger ships often have more families, while smaller vessels cater to couples and solo travelers.

Budget Considerations: All-Inclusive vs. À La Carte

Cruise pricing varies widely. NCL and MSC offer frequent promotions (e.g., “Kids Sail Free,” “Free at Sea”) that bundle extras like drinks and excursions. Celebrity and Oceania include more amenities in their base fare, with “Always Included” or “O Life Choice” packages.

For budget travelers, Royal Caribbean and NCL offer affordable balcony cabins and last-minute deals. Pro Tip: Use cruise comparison sites like Cruiseline.com to track pricing trends and book during “wave season” (January–March) for the best deals.

Specialty Cruises: Wellness, Adventure, and Themed Voyages

Many lines offer specialty cruises from Fort Lauderdale. Royal Caribbean hosts “Music Cruises” with live concerts, while MSC partners with Cirque du Soleil for themed shows. Oceania offers “Culinary Discovery Tours” with chef-led cooking classes.

For wellness, Celebrity and Norwegian feature spa retreats, fitness centers, and healthy dining options. Tip: Book specialty voyages early—they often sell out months in advance.

Essential Tips for a Smooth Fort Lauderdale Cruise Experience

Pre-Cruise Planning: Booking, Packing, and Paperwork

Start planning 6–12 months in advance, especially for peak season (December–April). Book your cruise through a reputable travel agent or directly with the cruise line for the best deals. Pack essentials like a reusable water bottle, sunscreen, and a power strip (most cabins have limited outlets).

Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your return date. Print boarding passes, luggage tags, and shore excursion tickets before arrival. Tip: Use a cruise app (e.g., Royal Caribbean’s app) to check in online and receive real-time updates.

Onboard Experience: Maximizing Your Vacation

On embarkation day, explore the ship’s layout, attend safety drills, and book high-demand activities (e.g., specialty dining, spa treatments). Use the cruise line’s app to manage your schedule, order room service, and track expenses.

Take advantage of free onboard amenities like fitness centers, pools, and enrichment lectures. Pro Tip: Attend the “Welcome Aboard” show to learn about daily activities and hidden gems on the ship.

Shore Excursions: Making the Most of Your Port Days

Book shore excursions through the cruise line for guaranteed return times and expert guides. For budget-friendly options, explore ports independently—many have free beaches, markets, and cultural sites. Use apps like Viator or GetYourGuide for last-minute deals.

Always carry local currency, a map, and a fully charged phone. Tip: Arrive at the port early to avoid crowds and secure the best spots on popular tours.

Cruise Line	Ships Homeported	Avg. Itinerary Length	Best For	Unique Feature
Celebrity Cruises	Celebrity Edge, Ascent, Beyond	7–14 nights	Luxury, foodies, couples	Magic Carpet, “Always Included”
Royal Caribbean	Symphony, Harmony, Wonder	3–14 nights	Families, adventure seekers	Ultimate Abyss, North Star
NCL	Escape, Encore, Bliss	3–14 nights	Flexibility, budget travelers	Freestyle Cruising, “Free at Sea”
MSC Cruises	Seashore, Divina, Meraviglia	7–14 nights	Families, European flair	Kids Sail Free, MSC Yacht Club
Oceania Cruises	Insignia, Regatta, Vista	7–30 nights	Culinary, cultural, luxury	Jacques Pépin dining, “O Life Choice”

Conclusion: Your Fort Lauderdale Cruise Adventure Awaits

Fort Lauderdale’s Port Everglades is a world-class cruise hub that connects you to unforgettable destinations and experiences. Whether you’re drawn to the high-energy thrills of Royal Caribbean, the refined luxury of Celebrity, the flexible freedom of NCL, the European charm of MSC, or the culinary excellence of Oceania, there’s a perfect cruise line and itinerary waiting for you. From sun-drenched Caribbean escapes to transatlantic voyages and Panama Canal adventures, the options are as diverse as the travelers who embark here.

As you plan your next vacation, remember that what cruise lines go out of Fort Lauderdale, Florida isn’t just a list—it’s a gateway to endless possibilities. With its convenient location, modern facilities, and vibrant pre- and post-cruise amenities, Fort Lauderdale simplifies every step of your journey. So pack your bags, embrace the adventure, and set sail from the Sunshine State’s premier cruise capital. Your dream cruise is closer than you think.

Frequently Asked Questions

What cruise lines go out of Fort Lauderdale, Florida?

Major cruise lines like Royal Caribbean, Carnival Cruise Line, Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), and Princess Cruises operate from Fort Lauderdale’s Port Everglades. Smaller luxury lines such as Regent Seven Seas and Oceania Cruises also depart from this popular hub.

Which cruise lines offer the best deals from Fort Lauderdale?

Carnival and Royal Caribbean often provide budget-friendly options for Caribbean itineraries from Port Everglades. For all-inclusive luxury, Regent Seven Seas and Oceania Cruises deliver high-value packages with premium amenities.

What cruise lines go out of Fort Lauderdale for longer voyages?

Princess Cruises and Holland America Line frequently offer extended voyages (10+ days) from Fort Lauderdale, including transatlantic and world cruise segments. Norwegian Cruise Line also provides unique longer itineraries to the Southern Caribbean and beyond.

Are there family-friendly cruise lines departing from Fort Lauderdale?

Yes, Royal Caribbean and Carnival are ideal for families, with kid-friendly activities, water parks, and flexible dining. Norwegian Cruise Line also caters to families with its “Free at Sea” perks and entertainment options.

What cruise lines offer luxury sailings from Port Everglades?

Luxury-focused lines like Regent Seven Seas, Oceania Cruises, and Silversea Cruises operate from Fort Lauderdale, offering gourmet dining, butler service, and exclusive excursions. These lines are perfect for travelers seeking a refined experience.

Do any cruise lines from Fort Lauderdale sail to private islands?

Royal Caribbean and Carnival frequently visit their private islands (Perfect Day at CocoCay and Half Moon Cay) on Caribbean itineraries from Port Everglades. Norwegian Cruise Line also stops at Great Stirrup Cay, its exclusive tropical destination.