Flight Arrival and Departure Times
If you are flying in to Ft. Lauderdale Airport (FLL) or Miami International Airport (MIA) on the day of your cruise make sure you allow plenty of time to get to the ship. Carnival recommends arriving in to FLL by 2:30 PM and MIA by 2:00 PM at the latest on the day of embarkation. After your cruise, your flight should not leave before 12:00 PM from MIA and 11:30 AM from FLL. (updated January 2011)
Parking at Ft. Lauderdale / Port Everglades
Carnival typically sails from Terminals 19 and 21 so be sure you park in the Midport Parking Garage. The garage is walking distance to both terminals. Be prepared to pay $15 a day to park in a secure covered garage. Payment is due as you exit the garage (cash or major credit card or US traveler's check only) so be sure to put your ticket in a safe place that you will find it before you leave the garage. (updated October 2010)
Other Parking options for Port Everglades
There are offsite parking lots with shuttles to the port. If you are arriving by car the night before your cruise, several of the hotels in the area may let you leave your car in their lot while you cruise. However, you will need to stay at least one night before your cruise – look for "Park 'n Stay" rates advertised by the hotel. These hotels usually have a shuttle to take you to and from the cruise port. (updated February 2011)
Taxi from Fort Lauderdale Airport (FLL) to Port Everglades
Unlike the Port of Miami there is no flat rate for a taxi to the port. The port is only 2 miles from the airport so it should take under 10 minutes to get there. The rate should be about $10-$15 plus tip. Cruise Line transfers are $15 per person each way, If there are at least 2 people traveling, a taxi is more cost and time efficient. (updated October 2010)
Online Check-in for your Carnival cruise
Complete the FunPass check-in online at least 3 days prior to your cruise. This will speed up check-in for your Carnival Cruise from Fort Lauderdale. (updated January 2011)
Boarding Time for Carnival Cruises out of Fort Lauderdale
Boarding for your Carnival cruise starts at 12:30 PM in Port Everglades. If possible get there early to avoid the lines. You must be checked-in at least 90 minutes prior to the scheduled cruise departure.
Required Travel Documentation
As of June 1, 2009 U.S. Citizens on closed-loop cruises (cruises that start and end from the same port) can still cruise with a birth certificate and government-issued photo ID (children only need a birth certificate). Passports are required if you have to leave the cruise early and fly back to the U.S. Passports may also be required depending on the country your ship is visiting. Be sure to check the U.S. State Department's web site for up-to-date information. (updated July 2009)