Boarding day
Boarding day, answered
- Terminal
- Choose a sailing from PortMiami
- Drop-off
- Terminal-specific drop-off appears after your sailing is confirmed.
- Parking
- $25 per day in Garages C, D, F, G and Surface Lot E
- Arrival
- Follow the arrival window your cruise line sends you.
Your day at a glance
Disclosure: some affiliate links here — we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
How we build these guides: picks are researched from public reviews and official sources — venues re-verified July 30, 2026. See every partner and what it pays us.
Where do cruise ships dock in Miami?
Cruise ships in Miami use nine passenger terminals, Terminal AA and Terminal A among them. Yours is set by ship and sail date, not by cruise line — read it off your boarding pass, then open that terminal's guide for its address and parking.
Which cruise lines sail from PortMiami?
Eight cruise lines sail from PortMiami in our ship catalog: Norwegian, Carnival, Royal Caribbean, MSC Cruises and four more. Norwegian runs the most ships from here. Lines add and drop seasons yearly, so check the sailing calendar for the month you are cruising.
How much is parking at PortMiami?
PortMiami runs two long-term tiers rather than one rate, and which one you pay follows your ship. Garage AA for MSC and Garage B for Norwegian are $35 per vehicle, per space, per day. Garages C, D, F and G, plus Surface Lot E, are $25 a day. Garage A, serving Royal Caribbean at Terminal A, is not priced on the port's own page at all — its operator quotes it separately. Check your terminal before you budget: the parking guide pairs each garage to its terminal and carries the floor-by-floor clearance table.
Where to Stay
Hotels near PortMiami for the night before
InterContinental Miami
Why: Upscale waterfront hotel with bay views. Full-service spa for pre-cruise pampering. Rooms have either Miami skyline or ocean views. Walking distance to Bayfront Park.
More details
Waterfront luxury with Biscayne Bay views — treat yourself before your cruise
Pro tip: Book a bay-view room for the best experience. The spa is worth a visit even if you're not a guest. Great cocktail bar in the lobby. Uber to the port is a short, inexpensive ride.
Parking: Valet parking available. No long-term cruise parking packages.
A boutique hotel in the heart of downtown, with modern style at a reasonable price
Why we picked it: Great location on Biscayne Blvd, directly across from Bayfront Park. Modern, stylish rooms. Just over a mile from the cruise port. Walkable to Bayside Marketplace.
Pro tip: Request a high floor for bay views. Uber or taxi to the port is a short ride. Walking distance to restaurants and nightlife. Good value for the location.
Parking: Self-parking available. No cruise parking packages.
Full-service hotel with family-friendly amenities and port shuttle package
Why we picked it: Ask about the Park, Stay & Go package when booking — it's built for drivers who'd rather not deal with port parking. Pool overlooking Biscayne Bay. Close to Bayside Marketplace for pre-cruise exploring.
Pro tip: Kids love the pool with bay views. Walking distance to Bayside means you can explore without driving. The package is good value if you're driving.
Parking: Ask about the Park, Stay & Go package when booking.
Reliable chain hotel with free breakfast — kids eat free, parents relax
Why we picked it: Consistently well reviewed. Complimentary hot breakfast saves money and time on cruise morning. Pool for pre-cruise swimming. Near Brickell dining and shopping.
Pro tip: Breakfast is substantial — waffles, eggs, fruit. Short Uber ride to port. Good option if you want to explore Brickell.
Parking: On-site parking available. No long-term cruise packages.
Spacious suites and free breakfast, so there's room to spread out with the kids
Why we picked it: Pre/Post-Cruise package with discounted parking and a one-way port shuttle. Suites have separate living areas, which helps with kids. Free hot breakfast. Outdoor pool.
Pro tip: Book the cruise package directly with hotel. Suites mean kids can sleep in one area while parents relax in another. Pool is a hit with kids.
Parking: Cruise package: discounted nightly parking plus a one-way shuttle.
Budget-friendly suites with a pool, free breakfast, and a free one-way shuttle
Why we picked it: Free hot breakfast, heated outdoor pool, and free one-way shuttle to port. Cruise parking available for a nightly fee. Great budget option for families.
Pro tip: Perfect for families watching their budget. The shuttle saves on Uber costs. Pool helps tire kids out before the cruise. Book early if you want it.
Parking: Cruise parking available for a nightly fee. Free one-way port shuttle.
A budget option with a park-and-cruise deal worth asking about
Why we picked it: Ask about the Park and Go package when booking — it's aimed at drivers who want their car looked after while they cruise. Breakfast, outdoor pool, fitness center. Well-rated for a budget hotel.
Pro tip: Ask about the Park and Go package when you book. Farther from port attractions, but the parking savings can be real. Good choice if you just need a clean place to sleep.
Parking: Ask about the Park and Go package when booking.
A Park & Sail package here is worth asking about if you're driving
Why we picked it: Ask about the Park & Sail package when booking — it has historically bundled parking, a rideshare credit, and a room upgrade to the club floor.
Pro tip: Ask about the Park & Sail package when you book. Farther from downtown, but the savings on parking can be substantial. Good for fly-in cruisers with early flights.
Parking: Ask about the Park & Sail package when booking.
A reliable airport hotel with a cruise package worth asking about
Why we picked it: Ask about the Park & Cruise package when booking — it has historically bundled parking with a shuttle to PortMiami. Free airport shuttle too, which suits fly-in cruisers. Pool, fitness center, onsite dining.
Pro tip: Confirm shuttle times when booking — they run on a schedule. The famous DoubleTree cookie at check-in is a nice touch. Solid, reliable choice.
Parking: Ask about the Park & Cruise package when booking.
Where to Eat
Every restaurant worth eating at near PortMiami
Café Bastille Downtown
Why: Croissants, crepes, and proper cappuccino, with a bit of Parisian charm in downtown Miami Order: The croissant basket with jam and butter, or sweet crepes with Nutella. Their cappuccino is legit.
More details
Pro tip: Sit outside on a nice morning for the full Parisian cafe experience. It gets busy on weekends, so go early.
Parking: Street parking or nearby garage. Metered spots available on surrounding blocks.
- —4 min$-$$Various
Waterfront food court with tons of options — everyone picks what they want
What to order: Multiple vendors: burgers, pizza, Cuban food, seafood. Kids can pick their own meal while parents grab something different.
Kids: Outdoor seating, plenty of room to move around, harbor views that keep kids entertained. Bathrooms readily available.
Pro tip: The real draw is the waterfront setting and live music. Let kids burn energy walking around before getting back in the car.
Parking: Paid parking garage at Bayside. Validate with purchase.
Directions - Google rating 4.2 out of 5 from 3,628 reviews5 min$Cuban
An authentic Cuban chain near the port. Reliable, fast, and kid-friendly.
What to order: Cuban breakfast: eggs, toast, ham, and cafe con leche. Kids love the croquetas and sweet plantains. Portions are huge.
Kids: Kids' menu available. Familiar flavors even in Cuban dishes. Quick service means less waiting with antsy kids.
Pro tip: A longtime Miami institution. It's not fancy, but it's consistent and fast — perfect for cruise morning.
Parking: Multiple locations — the one near the port has its own lot.
Directions - Google rating 4.5 out of 5 from 904 reviews8 min$$New American
Behind the art museum, a breezy waterfront cafe with a seasonal menu of bright, fresh flavors
Closed Tue & Wed
What to order: Menu changes seasonally. Always fresh, local produce. Great vegetarian options. The setting is the star — outdoor seating overlooking Biscayne Bay.
Pro tip: Verde opens at 11am, so it's a lunch stop, not a breakfast one — combine it with a quick walk through the museum's outdoor sculpture garden, which is free and has amazing views. Closed Tuesday and Wednesday.
Parking: Use the Pérez Art Museum parking garage. Validate if you visit the museum.
Directions - Google rating 4.3 out of 5 from 2,241 reviews8 min$$$Seafood
Biscayne Bay views with sustainable seafood and farm-to-table fare
What to order: Weekend brunch is exceptional. The seafood is sustainably sourced. Don't skip the view — request waterfront seating.
Pro tip: Located on the 16th floor of the EPIC Hotel. Even if you don't eat here, the views of Biscayne Bay and Miami River are worth seeing.
Parking: Valet at the hotel or nearby parking garages in downtown.
Directions - —10 min$$$New American
Brickell waterfront bar and restaurant known for bottomless brunch with housemade sangria
What to order: Bottomless brunch includes housemade sangrias like Crimson Coast and Isla Brisa, plus bottomless mimosas or Aperol spritz.
Pro tip: Weekend brunch draws a crowd at this Miami River spot, so arrive early or book ahead.
Parking: Valet available. Street parking near Brickell can be tricky on weekends.
Directions - Google rating 4.6 out of 5 from 2,240 reviews12 min$Cuban
Cuban diner serving Wynwood since 1988 — authentic cafecito and sandwiches that'll hold you until dinner
Closed Sun
What to order: Cuban sandwich with croquetas, or the tortilla especial omelet. Traditional Cuban coffee done right.
Pro tip: Popular with local commuters for early-morning fuel. Generous portions.
Parking: Small lot and street parking. Can get crowded during morning rush.
Directions - Google rating 4.4 out of 5 from 2,205 reviews12 min$$American Breakfast
Local favorite known for croissant French toast that kids and adults both love
What to order: The croissant French toast is the signature — crispy outside, custardy inside. Also great pancakes and egg dishes.
Kids: Straightforward breakfast menu that kids love. Nothing too fancy or unfamiliar. High chairs available.
Pro tip: Popular weekend brunch spot — go early or expect a wait. The portions are generous.
Parking: Street parking in Brickell area. Some metered spots and nearby garages.
Directions - Google rating 4.8 out of 5 from 1,524 reviews25 min$$American Breakfast
Cheerful, bright spot with thick pancakes, waffles, and healthy options too
What to order: Classic American breakfast: thick pancakes, Belgian waffles. Healthy options like chia pudding and acai bowls for the adults.
Kids: Bright, cheerful atmosphere. Classic breakfast foods kids love. Outdoor seating on nice days.
Pro tip: Only go here if you have extra time — South Beach adds 25+ min each way. But if you're staying nearby, it's worth it.
Parking: Street parking in South Beach — can be challenging. Consider paid lot.
Directions - ——$American
Right at the port when you need a quick, filling meal before boarding
What to order: Burgers, sandwiches, American comfort food. Nothing fancy, but it's right there when you need it.
Kids: Familiar American food. TVs showing sports keep kids entertained. Quick service.
Pro tip: It keeps limited hours, so check before you count on it. Midday is the busiest stretch, and later in the afternoon is calmer.
Parking: You're already at the port.
Directions
Things to Do
Things to do near PortMiami before you board
Bayfront Park
Why: Walk off some pre-cruise restlessness in a waterfront green space with skyline views Best for: Anyone wanting fresh air and views without a big commitment.
More details
Pro tip: Walk here from Bayside Marketplace. Great for stretching your legs before a week on a ship. The views of Biscayne Bay and the Miami skyline are postcard-worthy.
- Google rating 4.5 out of 5 from 79,605 reviews4 minFree1–2 hr
A waterfront plaza with room to run, ice cream, boat-watching, and live music
Best for: All ages — easy, no-stress option
Pro tip: Kids love watching the cruise ships and tour boats. Ice cream shops and easy food options. Wide open spaces for strollers. Bathrooms readily available. Teens can browse shops while parents relax by the water. Live music often playing. Good phone charging spots at the food court. Views of cruise ships coming and going.
Directions - —5 minFree30 min
Playground with bay views — free place to let kids run
Best for: Quick energy burn before getting back in the car
Pro tip: Walk here from Bayside Marketplace. Playground equipment plus open grass. Shaded areas available. Clean bathrooms nearby. Good Wi-Fi in the area. Nice views for photos. Not a destination itself, but a good add-on.
Directions - Google rating 4.5 out of 5 from 7,901 reviews8 min$181–2 hr
A contemporary art museum in a striking waterfront building, where the outdoor sculptures are free
Closed Tue & Wed
Best for: Art lovers, couples, anyone who appreciates architecture
Pro tip: Even if you skip the galleries, the outdoor sculpture garden and hanging gardens are free. Verde restaurant is on-site for lunch. The building itself is worth seeing.
Check availability on ViatorOfficial informationDirections - Google rating 4.4 out of 5 from 4,523 reviews8 min$20–262–3 hr
Let them run around here before a week on a ship. The exhibits are hands-on and built for kids.
Best for: Families with kids under 10
Pro tip: Perfect for burning off energy before boarding. Interactive exhibits keep kids engaged. Gift shop at the end has cruise-appropriate toys. Go early before crowds.
Browse options on ViatorDirections - Google rating 4.7 out of 5 from 20,099 reviews10 minFree1–2 hr
Modern mall with good stores, food court, and AC — teen-approved time killer
Best for: Teens who want to shop, anyone escaping the heat
Pro tip: Good mix of stores. Food court has decent options. Architecture is cool. Connected to Metromover so you can combine activities. Great option if it's raining or too hot. The architecture is impressive. Good dining options on-site. Connected to Metromover for easy access.
Directions - Google rating 4.5 out of 5 from 5,626 reviews10 minFree1–2 hr
Open-air dining and shopping enclave in Miami's most walkable neighborhood
Best for: Couples, foodies, anyone wanting a local vibe
Pro tip: Take the free Metromover from downtown — the ride itself is a mini tour. Blue Martini and Fadó Irish Pub are great for a pre-cruise drink. Restaurants include Novecento and Rosa Mexicano.
Directions - Google rating 4.5 out of 5 from 8,154 reviews10 min$24–302–3 hr
Education disguised as fun, with interactive science exhibits and a three-story aquarium
Best for: Families with kids who like animals and hands-on learning
Pro tip: The aquarium is the star — kids love seeing fish from multiple levels. Planetarium has kid-friendly shows. Touch tanks are a hit. Plan for at least 2 hours. The Gulf Stream Aquarium is the highlight — you can see it from multiple levels. Good for a few hours if you have time.
Check availability on ViatorDirections - —15 minFree1–2 hr
Upscale outdoor shopping with public art installations and designer boutiques
Best for: Design enthusiasts, shoppers, Instagram fans
Pro tip: The public art and architecture are free to enjoy. Great for photos. Multiple high-end restaurants if you want a special pre-cruise meal. Only go if you have 2+ hours to spare.
Directions - ——Free30–45 min
Kids think this free elevated train is a ride. Circle downtown as long as you like.
Best for: Train-loving kids, tired parents
Pro tip: Runs in a loop — stay on as long as you want. Air conditioned. Kids love sitting up front. Great views from the elevated track. Perfect when you need a break but can't stop moving. Runs frequently. Connects Brickell, downtown, and Bayside. Perfect activity when you're killing time.
Directions
Let them watch you sail
We sail from PortMiami. You can watch our ship leave on a live camera at the port: https://cruisedayguide.com/guide/miami/webcam
Getting to Your Ship
Which terminal is yours? Terminals here are assigned by ship and sail date, so without your sailing we have to show all 9 terminals.
Drop-off
Pull up to the covered drop-off area directly in front of the terminal. Porters with luggage carts are waiting curbside — tip $2-3 per bag. This is the world's largest cruise terminal, so signage is excellent. An additional berth of this same building appears on schedules as Terminal AAA — the same covered drop-off and the same check-in hall serve it, and ships from other lines berth there on busy days, so follow the ship-name signage rather than assuming MSC.
Parking
Park in Garage AA ($20/day short-term, $35/day for cruises). The garage has 7-foot clearance. You can reserve parking in advance through the MSC website or MSC for Me app. Take the covered walkway directly to check-in.
Check-in Tips
- Download the MSC for Me app and complete online check-in before arrival — this is the fastest way through
- MSC's terminal is built for volume — the port states it can process 36,000 passengers a day across three ships, so queues tend to move even on busy mornings
- Have your passport and booking confirmation ready at the check-in counters
Last-Minute Needs
There's a small convenience area inside the terminal for last-minute items. For better selection, stop at a CVS or Walgreens on your way — the closest is on Biscayne Blvd, about 5 minutes before reaching the port.
Drop-off
Follow signs to Terminal A — look for 'The Crown of Miami' with its distinctive peaked roof design. Drop off luggage curbside with porters (tip $2-3 per bag), then drop off passengers at the terminal entrance before parking.
Parking
Garage A is operated by Royal Caribbean and you MUST reserve parking in advance through their website. Select your sailing date online to see the rate — PortMiami's own parking page does not publish one for Garage A. Keep your confirmation handy — you'll need it to enter the garage.
Check-in Tips
- Complete online check-in before arrival — Royal Caribbean guests get a SetSail Pass in the Royal Caribbean app, Celebrity guests get an Xpress Pass in the Celebrity app
- The terminal has expedited security screening for international guests
- Spacious waiting areas with comfortable seating — arrive early and relax
- The terminal is LEED Silver certified with modern amenities throughout
Last-Minute Needs
There's a small shop in the terminal for basics. The Royal Caribbean building nearby has cafeterias if you need a snack. For drugstore items, stop at CVS on Biscayne Blvd before reaching the port.
Drop-off
Follow signs to Terminal B — known as 'The Pearl of Miami.' Drop off luggage with porters at the curbside drop-off area (tip $2-3 per bag). The drop-off is well-organized with clear NCL signage.
Parking
Garage B is operated by Norwegian Cruise Line at $35/day. The garage is adjacent to the terminal with a short covered walk to check-in. No advance reservation required, but arrive early on busy sailing days.
Check-in Tips
- Complete online check-in through the NCL app before arrival for fastest boarding
- The terminal has modern waiting areas with comfortable seating near the boarding area
- Check-in counters are positioned efficiently close to where you'll board
- The terminal is LEED Gold certified — one of the greenest cruise terminals in the world
Last-Minute Needs
Limited options inside the terminal. Seaman's Center across from Terminal E has some supplies. Better to stop at CVS or Walgreens on Biscayne Blvd before entering the port.
Drop-off
Pull up to the curbside drop-off in front of the terminal on North Cruise Blvd. Porters are available curbside — tip $2-3 per bag. Terminal C hosts ships from several different lines, so watch for your ship's name on the signage rather than a cruise-line logo.
Parking
Park in Multi-Level Garage C at 1648 N Cruise Blvd — $10/day short-term (no overnight) or $25/day for the length of your cruise. It's directly across from the terminal.
Check-in Tips
- Terminal C is PortMiami's flexible multi-line terminal — assignments can shift, so re-confirm your terminal with your cruise line the day before sailing
- Margaritaville at Sea Beachcomber makes Terminal C its Miami home starting January 9, 2027 — the line holds preferential berthing rights here under its agreement with Miami-Dade County, and other lines still use the terminal on other dates
- Margaritaville at Sea guests: your arrival window and boarding pass come by email and in the line's Guest Portal — bring the pass printed or on your phone, and go by the arrival time it shows
- Follow your cruise line's check-in window rather than showing up at opening — staggered arrival keeps the lobby moving on busy overflow days
- Have your passport and booking confirmation ready at the check-in counters
Last-Minute Needs
No shops of note inside the terminal. Stop at a CVS or Walgreens on Biscayne Blvd on your way in — about 5 minutes before reaching the port.
Drop-off
Follow signs to Terminal D for Carnival, Holland America, Princess, or P&O cruises. Drop off luggage curbside with porters (tip $2-3 per bag). Multiple cruise lines share this terminal, so look for your specific cruise line's signage inside.
Parking
Park in Garage D — affordable at $10/day short-term or $25/day for cruise duration. The garage connects to the terminal via covered walkway.
Check-in Tips
- Complete online check-in through your cruise line's app before arrival
- Terminals D and E were expanded in 2018 to handle larger ships — expect a big, busy terminal on sailing days
- Multiple cruise lines use this terminal, so follow signage for YOUR specific cruise line
- Have your boarding pass (digital or printed) and government ID ready at check-in
Last-Minute Needs
Seaman's Center is directly across from Terminal E with basic travel supplies. There's also a cafe in the port administration building. For better selection, stop at a drugstore before entering the port.
Drop-off
Follow signs to Terminal E — it shares facilities with Terminal D for Carnival, Holland America, Princess, and P&O cruises. Drop off luggage with curbside porters (tip $2-3 per bag), then follow signs to your cruise line's check-in area.
Parking
Use Garage D or Surface Lot E. Garage D is $10/day short-term, $25/day for cruises. Surface Lot E is for oversized vehicles only (RVs, trailers) at special rates — call 305-960-5463 for assistance.
Check-in Tips
- Complete online check-in before arrival through your cruise line's app
- Terminals D and E work together as one large facility — follow interior signage to your cruise line
- This is a high-volume terminal on busy days — arriving early helps
- The terminal has been renovated with modern amenities and efficient passenger flow
Last-Minute Needs
Seaman's Center is directly across from Terminal E — the closest option for snacks and basic supplies. The port administration building also has a small cafe.
Drop-off
Follow signs to Terminal F — one of Carnival's terminals at PortMiami, renovated in 2022. The covered drop-off area has porter service ready (tip $2-3 per bag). The facilities are top-notch.
Parking
Park in Garage F at $10/day short-term or $25/day for cruise duration. The garage is adjacent to the terminal with an easy covered walk to check-in. Lost ticket fee is max $275, so keep it safe.
Check-in Tips
- Complete online check-in through the Carnival app and have your boarding pass ready
- This is Carnival's third facility at PortMiami, renovated in 2022
- Despite its size, the terminal is designed for efficient flow — follow the Carnival signage
- The terminal is LEED Silver certified with modern amenities throughout
Last-Minute Needs
Limited options at the terminal itself. Seaman's Center near Terminal E has basics. Best to stop at CVS or Walgreens on Biscayne Blvd before reaching the port for any last-minute needs.
Drop-off
Terminal J is on the SOUTHSIDE of the port — follow signs carefully as it's separate from the main cruise terminal area. This boutique terminal serves Oceania, Regent Seven Seas, Azamara, and Crystal Cruises. Drop-off is intimate and personalized.
Parking
Park in Garage J at $10/day short-term or $25/day for cruise duration. Garage K is also available nearby. The southside garages are typically less crowded than the main terminal area.
Check-in Tips
- Complete online check-in through your cruise line's app or website before arrival
- This boutique terminal is designed for small vessels and luxury cruises — expect a more intimate, personalized experience
- Lines are typically shorter here than at the high-volume terminals
- The terminal caters to premium cruise lines, so service levels are high from the moment you arrive
Last-Minute Needs
Very limited options at this terminal. The southside location means you're farther from the Seaman's Center. Definitely stop at a drugstore before heading to the port — Walgreens on Biscayne Blvd is your last good option.
Drop-off
You can't miss Terminal V — it's the striking three-story building with geometric, palm tree-inspired architecture. Drop off luggage and passengers at the covered entrance. The terminal opened in 2022 and the design is intentionally Instagram-worthy.
Parking
Check the Virgin Voyages website for current parking arrangements and rates. The terminal uses nearby garage facilities. Virgin's app will have the latest parking instructions for your sailing.
Check-in Tips
- Download the Virgin Voyages app and complete online check-in before arrival — this is essential for the streamlined boarding process
- The terminal design reflects Virgin's modern, adult-focused brand — expect a different vibe than traditional cruise terminals
- The 100,000 square foot facility is LEED Gold certified
- Remember: Virgin Voyages is 18+ only, so the terminal atmosphere is geared toward adults
Last-Minute Needs
Terminal V has some amenities that match Virgin's boutique approach, but selection is limited. Stop at a drugstore before arriving — CVS on Biscayne Blvd is convenient on your way to the port.
Passport & Documents
Bring a valid passport even on a closed-loop cruise — one that leaves and returns to the same U.S. port, where a birth certificate and government-issued photo ID are technically enough — because only a passport gets you home if you miss the ship at a foreign port (full document list in our first-time cruise tips).
Need to apply? The nearest passport acceptance facility is the Miami Main Post Office (2200 NW 72nd Ave, Miami) — appointments recommended, call 305-470-0812.
Last-Minute Stops
Pick up anything you forgot before heading to the port.
Publix — Downtown Miami
Groceries, snacks, water, sunscreen — closest grocery to PortMiami
311 SW 7th St, Miami, FL 33130
DirectionsCVS Pharmacy — Brickell
Pharmacy, Dramamine, phone chargers, toiletries
1201 Brickell Ave, Miami, FL 33131
DirectionsTarget — Midtown Miami
Everything last-minute — clothes, toiletries, snacks, electronics
3401 N Miami Ave Ste 100, Miami, FL 33127
DirectionsUSPS — Downtown Miami
Post office — drop mail before you sail
150 SE 2nd Ave Ste 103, Miami, FL 33131
DirectionsGetting There & Parking
Parking at PortMiami, and how to get there without a car
Driving & Port Parking
Cruisers driving from Florida or nearby states
Verified Aug 24, 2026 · PortMiami — Parking Information · See something outdated? Tell us
PortMiami has parking garages at each terminal. The port is on an island — take the Port Boulevard tunnel from I-395 (toll-free) or the MacArthur Causeway from South Beach. Garages AA (MSC) and B (Norwegian) are $35 per vehicle, per space, per day. Garages C, D, F and G are $25/day long-term and $10 short-term with no overnight — Carnival sails from Terminals D and E and parks in Garage D. Surface Lot E, the open-air option and the only one without a height limit, is $25 per space per day, doubling to $50 if your vehicle takes two spaces. Garage A, serving Royal Caribbean at Terminal A, is the one garage the port does not price on its own page; it refers you to the garage operator's site instead.
From Miami International Airport (MIA)
Most cruisers flying in
MIA is about 10 miles from PortMiami — roughly 20 min by car, traffic permitting. This is the closest major airport.
From Fort Lauderdale Airport (FLL)
Cruisers who found better flight deals to FLL
FLL is about 28 miles north of PortMiami — plan on 35-55 min by car straight down I-95, and more during rush hour. Flights into FLL often cost less than MIA, but weigh the savings against the longer transfer.
Brightline Train from Fort Lauderdale (FLL)
Cruisers who'd rather ride the rails than sit on I-95
Brightline's Fort Lauderdale station is downtown, not at the airport — a dedicated Brightline shuttle covers the airport-to-station leg. The train reaches MiamiCentral in under 40 minutes, and MiamiCentral is less than a 10-minute drive from PortMiami.
Hotel Shuttle Services
Cruisers who want to bundle hotel + parking + transport
Many Miami hotels offer cruise shuttle packages, especially those near the airport. Quality and timing vary widely.
Uber/Lyft from Anywhere
Flexibility and door-to-door service
Rideshare is readily available throughout Miami. The port has designated pickup/drop-off areas.
Taxi
Cruisers who prefer a quoted fare over surge-based rideshare
Traditional taxis are available at the airports and can be hailed downtown.
What to Pack
The essentials you'll actually need — plus a few things most people forget
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. How we make money
Carry-On Day Bag
Pack these in a bag you keep with you at boarding — your checked luggage won't arrive until 3-4pm
Cruise Essentials
Things that make the whole trip better
Easy to Forget
The things people buy overpriced at the port gift shop
Want the reasoning behind this list? The full cruise packing list covers which bag each item goes in, and what not to bring covers what security takes at the pier.
Boarding Tips
Download the Royal Caribbean app and complete online check-in
You'll get your boarding group assignment and can set up your on-board spending account ahead of time. This alone can save you 30+ minutes at the terminal. Upload your photo for facial recognition boarding — it makes the security line faster.
Arrive at your assigned boarding time — not earlier
They've gotten strict about this. Showing up early means waiting in the terminal with no access to the ship. Your assigned time gets you on the ship fastest. If you have Crown & Anchor status, you may have priority boarding — check the app.
Bring small bills for the curbside porters — $2-3 per bag is the customary tip
This one applies at every cruise port, not just to Royal Caribbean sailings: the porters who take your checked bags at the curb are longshoremen working for the port, not cruise line staff, so the gratuities on your onboard account never reach them, and they carry no card reader. Within that band, the low end covers a small case and the top of it is fair for an oversized one, or when someone wrestles a heavy bag out of your trunk for you. Tag your bags with your stateroom number before you get out of the car, then hand them over and keep your carry-on with you.
Pack a carry-on bag with swimsuits, meds, and essentials
Your checked luggage won't reach your cabin until 3-4pm. Pack a day bag with swimsuits, medications, sunscreen, a change of clothes, and your phone charger so you can start enjoying the ship immediately.
Head straight to the pool deck or Windjammer for lunch
The main dining room is packed right after boarding. The Windjammer buffet and the pool deck grill have shorter lines, and you'll snag a good lounge chair while everyone else is still exploring.
Book specialty dining and shows on Day 1
Popular restaurants and shows fill up fast. Open the app as soon as you board and reserve your top picks. The chef's table and specialty dinner shows sell out first.
Download the Royal Caribbean app before you arrive — you'll need it for check-in, daily schedules, restaurant reservations, and as your digital key to your stateroom.
First cruise? Embarkation day in the order it happens walks through the whole day, and the muster drill, explained covers the one thing you cannot skip.
All PortMiami guides
Ships sailing from PortMiami
- Celebrity Beyond terminal & parkingCelebrity
- Carnival Celebration terminal & parkingCarnival
- Carnival Conquest terminal & parkingCarnival
- Carnival Horizon terminal & parkingCarnival
- Carnival Magic terminal & parkingCarnival
- Carnival Sunrise terminal & parkingCarnival
- Celebrity Xcel terminal & parkingCelebrity
- Freedom of the Seas terminal & parkingRoyal Caribbean
- Icon of the Seas terminal & parkingRoyal Caribbean
- Margaritaville at Sea Beachcomber terminal & parkingMargaritaville at Sea
- MSC Divina terminal & parkingMSC Cruises
- MSC Seaside terminal & parkingMSC Cruises
Terminals at PortMiami
- Terminal AA parking & drop-offMSC Cruises
- Terminal A parking & drop-offRoyal Caribbean / Celebrity
- Terminal B parking & drop-offNorwegian Cruise Line
- Terminal C parking & drop-offMulti-Line
- Terminal D parking & drop-offCarnival, Holland America, Princess
- Terminal E parking & drop-offCarnival, Holland America, Princess
- Terminal F parking & drop-offCarnival Cruise Line
- Terminal J parking & drop-offLuxury Cruises