Tips for Flying In, Parking, and Pre-Cruise Hotels
A Travel Advisor's Guide to Stress-Free Cruise Departures
Planning a cruise is always exciting—your ship, your destination, your excursions—but one part travelers often overlook is how to actually get to the port smoothly. Whether you're flying in from out of state or driving in from a few hours away, figuring out your pre-cruise logistics is key to kicking off your vacation on the right foot.
As a travel advisor (and a cruise lover myself), I’ve seen it all: missed flights, last-minute hotel scrambles, confusing port parking, and families scrambling to catch an Uber with four suitcases and two cranky kids. Let’s avoid all that, shall we?
Here’s everything you need to know about flying in, parking, and booking pre-cruise hotels—plus my favorite tips to make it all easier.
Flying In for a Cruise: When to Arrive and Which Airport to Choose
Always Arrive at Least One Day Early
This is my golden rule: never fly in the same day your cruise departs. Even if your ship leaves at 4 p.m. and you found a 6 a.m. flight that looks perfect—don’t risk it. Weather delays, missed connections, or airline issues can leave you waving goodbye from the terminal.
Pro Tip: Plan to arrive the day before your cruise, ideally by mid-afternoon. That gives you time to relax, adjust to the time zone, and enjoy a good night’s sleep before boarding day.
Closest Airports to Florida’s Cruise Ports
Here’s a quick reference if you're flying into Florida:
PortMiami – Fly into Miami International Airport (MIA), about 15–20 minutes from the port. Fort Lauderdale (FLL) is about 45 minutes away.
Port Everglades (Fort Lauderdale) – Fly into Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood (FLL), just 10 minutes away. Miami (MIA) is your backup option.
Port Canaveral – Fly into Orlando International (MCO), about 45 minutes away. Melbourne (MLB) is closer but smaller.
Tampa Cruise Port – Fly into Tampa International (TPA), about 15–20 minutes away.
JAXPORT (Jacksonville) – Fly into Jacksonville International Airport (JAX), about 20 minutes away.
Booking your airfare through a travel advisor or cruise line’s air program can offer extra protections in case of delays, especially for international cruises.
Cruise Port Parking: What to Know Before You Go
If you're driving to the port, parking is one of the easiest logistics to handle—if you plan ahead.
1. On-Site Port Parking
Most cruise terminals in Florida offer secure, on-site parking garages or lots. These are often the most convenient but also the most expensive option.
Rates usually run between $15–$20 per day.
Perks: You're right at the terminal and don’t need to wait for a shuttle.
2. Off-Site Cruise Parking Lots
Third-party lots near ports can save you money and still offer shuttle service to the terminal.
Savings: You can often park for $8–$12/day.
Shuttles: Make sure the lot includes free round-trip shuttle service for your party.
Tip: Book in advance, especially during peak cruise season (winter and spring break). Some lots fill up quickly.
3. Hotel Park & Cruise Packages
If you're spending the night before your cruise at a nearby hotel, look for "Park & Cruise" packages. Many include free parking for the duration of your cruise and shuttle service to the port.
Pre-Cruise Hotels Worth Booking
Choosing where to stay the night before your cruise depends on your budget, the port you’re sailing from, and how much you want to explore before boarding.
Here are my go-to picks by port (based on client feedback and personal experience):
Miami (PortMiami)
Luxury: InterContinental Miami – right near the port, beautiful views.
Budget-Friendly: Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Miami Brickell.
With Shuttle: Comfort Inn & Suites Miami Airport North offers cruise shuttle options.
Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades)
Convenient: Hyatt Place 17th Street Convention Center – close to both the airport and port.
Budget: Rodeway Inn & Suites – offers free shuttle and park & cruise deals.
Port Canaveral
Best Overall: Homewood Suites Cape Canaveral – spacious rooms, great shuttle service.
Beach Option: Hilton Cocoa Beach – enjoy ocean views before you board.
Budget: Country Inn & Suites by Radisson – reliable shuttle and breakfast.
Tampa
Near the Port: The Barrymore Hotel – clean, affordable, and walkable to the terminal.
Upscale Option: JW Marriott Tampa Water Street – stunning views and close to the action.
Jacksonville
Best Value: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Jacksonville – offers Park & Cruise packages.
Convenience: Marriott SpringHill Suites – quick airport and port access.
Cruise Day Tips: From Hotel to Ship
Set Your Alarm Early: Most hotels offering shuttle service to the port will assign time slots, usually starting around 10 a.m.
Label Everything: Use cruise-specific luggage tags (these Amazon luggage tag holders are my go-to).
Have Docs Ready: Keep your passport, boarding pass, and any health documents in a carry-on or travel wallet—not in your checked bag.
Final Travel Advisor Tips
Don’t Cut It Close: Give yourself buffer time, especially if traveling with kids, seniors, or a group.
Use a Carry-On: Pack a change of clothes, meds, and essentials in your carry-on for embarkation day. Your checked bags may not arrive to your cabin for hours.
Ask Your Advisor: I always recommend the best hotel and parking combos for your specific cruise and budget—just ask!
Ready to Set Sail?
Traveling to your cruise port doesn’t have to be stressful. With a little planning and some insider tips, you can start your vacation feeling rested and ready—not rushed and overwhelmed.
Want help booking flights, hotels, or transfers for your upcoming cruise? I’d love to help you set up a smooth, seamless start to your adventure. Let’s make your next cruise the easiest one yet!
