How Park-and-Cruise Works at Port Everglades
A park-and-cruise package (also called cruise and snooze) lets you stay the night before your sailing, leave your car at the hotel for your entire trip, and take a shuttle to the terminal in the morning. At Port Everglades, this is one of the best-developed park-and-cruise corridors in the US — hotels here have been doing this for decades and the logistics are smooth.
Port Everglades official parking runs $20–$25/day depending on the lot. On a 7-night cruise that is $140–$175 in parking alone. A park-and-cruise package in the $120–$180 range for one night essentially pays for itself while adding a comfortable pre-cruise hotel stay.
What to Confirm Before You Book
- Parking duration: Confirm the package covers your full cruise length. Most hotels cap at 7 or 14 nights — longer sailings may need a different arrangement.
- Shuttle schedule: Ask what time shuttles depart and whether return pickup is included. Not all hotels offer round-trip.
- Your terminal: Port Everglades has multiple terminals spread across a large facility. Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Princess, Norwegian and MSC all use different ones. Confirm your terminal number with your cruise line and tell the hotel — the shuttle driver needs to know.
- Parking lot type: Covered vs. surface matters for Florida summer heat and peace of mind on a 10-day trip.
- Book direct: Park-and-cruise packages are sometimes only available by calling the hotel directly, not through OTAs. If you do not see it online, call and ask.
Best Areas to Stay Near Port Everglades
17th Street Corridor — Closest to the Terminal
The strip of hotels along 17th Street and Seaport Boulevard is the most popular cruise-and-snooze zone in Fort Lauderdale. You are 5–10 minutes from the terminal gates, most hotels here have dedicated cruise shuttle programs, and the area has good dining options within walking distance. These hotels book up fast on peak cruise weekends — reserve at least 4–6 weeks ahead in winter and spring.
Fort Lauderdale Airport Area — Best for Fly-Cruise
If you are flying in the night before, hotels near FLL are the most practical option. Many offer three-way packages: airport pickup, overnight stay with free parking, and cruise terminal shuttle the next morning. This corridor is slightly further from the port but the convenience for air travelers is hard to beat.
Las Olas Boulevard — Best for an Evening Out
If you want more than just a bed the night before your cruise, Las Olas hotels give you a proper Fort Lauderdale evening — waterfront restaurants, walkable bars, and a genuine sense of the city. The shuttle ride to the terminal is 10–15 minutes. A good choice if you are arriving early and want to enjoy the evening rather than sit in a hotel lobby near the highway.
Editor's Picks – Port Everglades, Fort Lauderdale
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Fort Lauderdale Airport
📍 2620 North 26th Avenue, Hollywood, FL
The La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Fort Lauderdale Airport offers a comfortable stay with ample parking for guests. Located near Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, its convenient for travelers arriving or departing. The hotel features comfortable accommodations, a fitness center, and a complimentary breakfast. While not directly cruise-related, its a practical option for cruise passengers looking for affordable lodging before or after their voyage. Explore nearby attractions like Fort Lauderdale Beach during your visit.