Port Everglades is one of the busiest cruise ports in the world, often the start and end of cruises to the Caribbean. Located just next to the picturesque resort area of Fort Lauderdale, the port makes a great beach destination on its own.

The most popular, and best, activity in Fort Lauderdale for idle time before or after a cruise is spending all day hopping on and off the water taxis that navigate the elaborate canals of the city.

Port Everglades has amenities to handle more than three million passengers a year. Port Everglades is located conveniently close to the airport, giving extra time for a detour in downtown Fort Lauderdale. The cruise terminals have every conceivable amenity for embarking and disembarking passengers, including transportation between the city and airport.

Contact

www.porteverglades.net/cruising

Transport

Transfer from the adjacent airport is often provided in the cruise package. Port Everglades' bus stop is located in the Northport section and can connect to the city centre. A line of taxis are always available outside the cruise terminals and the ride into the city centre takes nearly 10 minutes. A host of rental car agencies are also available. When inside the city the water taxi is a fun way to get around.

Attractions

There are a host of popular attractions in the Fort Lauderdale area, among the most popular is riding the water taxis or gondolas through the city's canal ways, especially Las Olas Boulevard. The beaches have been tamed from spring break infamy but are still extremely popular, especially the beachfront promenade. The Riverwalk Arts and Entertainment District downtown has many small attractions including museums, theatres, shopping and dining options.

Restaurants

Gilbert's 17th Street Grill - casual family restaurant with excellent burgers

Truluck's Restaurant - upscale seafood and steak restaurant

101 Ocean - classy but casual dining in the heart of city

Best Dish

Stone Crab

Shopping

Fort Lauderdale is packed with shops and even offers shopping tours. Las Olas Boulevard and Riverfront are perfect for high end boutique window shopping. For everything under the sun, the Sawgrass Mills claims to be the largest discount and entertainment mall. Fun and unique bargains can be found in the south's largest flea market, the Swap Shop.

Best Buy

High fashion

Excursions

Ride the rail to Miami

Waste a day in Delray Beach

Ride a swamp boat in the wetlands

Gamble at Gulfstream Park Racing & Casino

Tour the Florida Keys