Ft. Lauderdale Q&A/FAQ

[NoWhiners]

[/b]

 

Best way (I think) to travel from Orlando to FLL:

Take the FL turnpike south to Rt 60, which is Yeehaw Junction. Exit and drive East to I-95; then take I-95 to FLL. Follow signs to airport, or I-595 to port---

 

We used to take turnpike all the way, but we always hit a lot of construction. Turnpike is 2 lanes each way, while I-95 has several lanes most of the way. It's easier to catch I-95 from Rt 60 rather than going farther south to Ft Pierce--less expensive, also. Driving time from Yeehaw Junction to port is about 2 1/2

hours

 

Kathy

 

Hi Kathy

 

Thanks for the tip about taking Rt 60 to I-95!! Sounds pretty good to me!! We can follow signs to airport since out hotel (pre-cruise night) is just off airport property.

 

Thanks again.

ML

[NoWhiners]

Hey guys and gals,

 

My g/f and I, along with another couple are sailing out of FLL in Sept. I started looking at hotels and I see there are a lot. Does anyone recommend a place to stay that close to the port, inexpensive, offers shuttles and possibly offers free parking for the week (our friends are driving down from Tampa and we're flying in).

 

I've been looking at the Marriott - Airport and Cruise Hotel and the Renaissance Cruise Port Hotel. Only problem is most places charge $ to park.

 

I've been researching hotels in FLL that include parking and shuttles, as we're also cruising out of Port Everglades in September on Allure of the Seas, and I'm leaning towards Cambria Suites in Dania Beach at the moment. It's about 5 miles from Port Everglades, and has a package that includes parking for 7 days and transportation to and from Port Everglades. Other hotels I've researched have transportation TO the Port, but not back, so that's why this one is my front-runner.

 

Comfort Inn and Suites on Stirling Road is a bit less expensive than Cambria Suites, but its website only says it provides transportation to the Port, doesn't say anything about coming back to the hotel after the cruise. Haven't called them yet to get more details, was going to start making calls around March.

 

I am pretty sure i read somewhere on this board that you can park right at the port. it may cost a little more to park per day, but from what I have seen, you will more than make this up by not paying more for the 'park and cruise' package at hotel--opens up more hotels too??. Maybe it's worth a look--people said it was very convenient and they have a big parking structure at port--so you park in the shade. And I think they said it was secured. No taxi's required either way too! And, you can get right in your car and go where you want faster. Just suggesting other options.

 

Good luck

ML

Edited February 5, 2011 by NoWhiners

[TrishOB]

I am pretty sure i read somewhere on this board that you can park right at the port. it may cost a little more to park per day, but from what I have seen, you will more than make this up by not paying more for the 'park and cruise' package at hotel--opens up more hotels too??. Maybe it's worth a look--people said it was very convenient and they have a big parking structure at port--so you park in the shade. And I think they said it was secured. No taxi's required either way too! And, you can get right in your car and go where you want faster. Just suggesting other options.

 

Good luck

ML

 

Hi, again, ML!

 

Parking at the port is $15 per day, so for 7 days, it costs $105.00. If we were driving down the day of the cruise, that would be less expensive than the hotel, but it's about a four-hour drive for us, so we'd rather come down the day before. Since we're going to be paying for the hotel anyway, one that includes parking is preferable, so we're not paying for parking at the port AND the hotel. That may be Doug's thinking as well.

[royalcruz]

For cruise parking, breakfast, and shuttles, look at Hampton Inn FLL north or south and Sleep Inn in Dania Beach. Springhill Suites, Hyatt Place FLL south, and Homewood might also offer this. If they won't pick you up after the cruise, taxi fare will only be under $25 to these hotels.

[NoWhiners]

Hi, again, ML!

 

Parking at the port is $15 per day, so for 7 days, it costs $105.00. If we were driving down the day of the cruise, that would be less expensive than the hotel, but it's about a four-hour drive for us, so we'd rather come down the day before. Since we're going to be paying for the hotel anyway, one that includes parking is preferable, so we're not paying for parking at the port AND the hotel. That may be Doug's thinking as well.

 

trish

 

this does make sense--it is all about bottom line costs and convenience. It is always nice to be at the port city the night before--less stressful and relaxing. I thought they might add some cost to room price to cover the park and cruise option, but maybe not.

 

After I read royalcruz's post, i remembered that Hyatt Summerfield Suites offers free parking for up to 7 days if you spend a night. They have free hot breakfast, internet, and an evening reception where you can have a nice (free!) glass of wine and a snack before heading out to dinner. You can pay for their shuttle to/from the port ($& each?), or take a cab. It has been showing up on priceline and hotwire pretty regularly. Right across from Oakwood Plaza (I think that's the name) with lots of restaurants, BJs and kmart, for wine, soda, etc.

 

Sounds like you have everything under control, just have to decide what works best for you.

 

Thanks for your help and good luck!

ML

[wwinfl91]

What I did when we lived in Florida and we were leaving on a cruise that was more than 7 days was rent a car and drive to the port and drop it off and let them shuttle me to the dock. Then when we got back we would have a car rental already reserved and go from the port to the car rental agency again via their shuttle. It worked especially well when I could get rentals for under $100 for both rentals. We also did this when we were leaving on a transatlantic, on a Panama Canal cruise and one ending in Montreal. Of course we only needed a single rental those times.

 

Now I live in Texas so I guess I will be flying in for cruises for the most part.

 

Have a great next cruise.

[cruislovin]

Group of 30 people have a flight out of FLL at 3 pm after cruise on Oasis in April. Any recommendations on what the group could do for a few hours? Disembarking about 8 am so it will be a long wait at the airport if we go directly there.

[cruisinlawn]

is there a store we might make a quick stop at to p/up soft drinks/water between FLL and cruise port? We'll be taking a cab..or two. TIA.

[royalcruz]

Group of 30 people have a flight out of FLL at 3 pm after cruise on Oasis in April. Any recommendations on what the group could do for a few hours? Disembarking about 8 am so it will be a long wait at the airport if we go directly there.

 

That is a lot of people...I'm clueless as to what to tell you!

[royalcruz]

is there a store we might make a quick stop at to p/up soft drinks/water between FLL and cruise port? We'll be taking a cab..or two. TIA.

 

There is no store on the way but you could go a little out of the way to the CVS, Walgreens, Winn-Dixie, or Publix on 17th St. I'm not sure if it would be worth the extra miles and wait time on the cab meeter.

[Music City]

Group of 30 people have a flight out of FLL at 3 pm after cruise on Oasis in April. Any recommendations on what the group could do for a few hours? Disembarking about 8 am so it will be a long wait at the airport if we go directly there.

 

Why are you disembarking so early? What's the rush?

[cruislovin]

What's there to do on the ship?

 

That's the time we disembark. I don't run the group...

 

Can anyone answer the question I ASKED?

[phabric]

The ship does offer post cruise excursions going to FLL and MIA. These excursions are only offered once on board. You submit the form and a couple of days later, they tell you if there are enough passengers wanting it, to have the excursion. The bus holds your luggage until you are dropped off at the airport usually around 1-2pm. It is a nice way to waste time instead of waiting at the airport. I have taken it a couple of times.

 

I don't know if you or your TA contact RCI and asking if they would have a post cruise excursion for that many of people or if they could make one for your group?

Edited February 15, 2011 by phabric

[ff274]

I know somewhere in the board it has been ask a hundred times but i am short on time.....I have been out of Miami and Port Canaveral but nevr on OASIS and FLL.........Can I disembark Oasis on Sat a.m. (7:00 am and make a 11:00 a.m flight out of Miami......airlines are killing me on short notice........just wondering and any help would be appreciated.....this is a spur of the moment trip for my wife and trying to get logistics to match.

[royalcruz]

I know somewhere in the board it has been ask a hundred times but i am short on time.....I have been out of Miami and Port Canaveral but nevr on OASIS and FLL.........Can I disembark Oasis on Sat a.m. (7:00 am and make a 11:00 a.m flight out of Miami......airlines are killing me on short notice........just wondering and any help would be appreciated.....this is a spur of the moment trip for my wife and trying to get logistics to match.

 

It is possible if you carry your bags off but I wouldn't chance it with any flights before noon at MIA.

[Music City]

What's there to do on the ship?

 

That's the time we disembark. I don't run the group...

 

Can anyone answer the question I ASKED?

 

I'm trying to help you, but what you are telling us makes no sense unless you are going to be the very first people off the ship doing a self-assist disembarkation because the ship usually assigns guests approximate times near the end of the cruise. I'm confused how you came up with such a precise, and very early diembarkation time.

 

I've arranged and planned a lot of group travel for a living and can help you, but you've got to help me help you. Trying to help you figure out how to pass the time I would have to first know if all 30 of you have a bus picking you up or what?

Edited February 16, 2011 by Music City

[NEW 2 CRUISIN]

Group of 30 people have a flight out of FLL at 3 pm after cruise on Oasis in April. Any recommendations on what the group could do for a few hours? Disembarking about 8 am so it will be a long wait at the airport if we go directly there.

 

 

I assume with 30 people you have a bus for transportation once you disembark, so tell the driver to take your group to the Casino for a few hours before taking you to the airport.

 

There's plenty of shopping, dining, and gaming to pass the time.

 

http://www.seminolehardrockhollywood.com/

 

Assume you get off the ship when you say you do.

30 people with luggage move at glacier speed, so you will not get on the bus and be ready to go for an hour. Then allow time to get to the casino.

It's now 10:30 - 11:00 AM.

 

You have about 2 hours to play at the casino before gathering the troops to board the bus to the airport. Next thing you know you're at the gate waiting for your flight.

 

Time flies when you are having fun! It's not as long as it sounds!

 

Good Luck....and GOD BLESS anyone travelling with a group of 30!!! HAHA!

Edited February 16, 2011 by NEW 2 CRUISIN

[kdinkus1]

I am sorry to trouble you with this question as I am sure it has been asked many dozens of times... (you have so many posts!! Goodness me!) I am looking for a hotel in Ft Lauderdale that provides airport - hotel - pier - hotel - airport transfer? We will be staying for a couple of nights pre-cruise and then one after and am not sure where to start looking. Also we would like to find a hotel that is reasonable in price (and clean!) for the month of our cruise in April? Thank you for your time and help!

[Music City]

I am sorry to trouble you with this question as I am sure it has been asked many dozens of times... (you have so many posts!! Goodness me!) I am looking for a hotel in Ft Lauderdale that provides airport - hotel - pier - hotel - airport transfer? We will be staying for a couple of nights pre-cruise and then one after and am not sure where to start looking. Also we would like to find a hotel that is reasonable in price (and clean!) for the month of our cruise in April? Thank you for your time and help!

 

I'm not sure I completely understand what you're asking.

 

I understand the first part about hotels pre and post cruise, but are you looking for a place to stay the entire month of April?

[cruislovin]

I assume with 30 people you have a bus for transportation once you disembark, so tell the driver to take your group to the Casino for a few hours before taking you to the airport.

 

There's plenty of shopping, dining, and gaming to pass the time.

 

http://www.seminolehardrockhollywood.com/

 

Assume you get off the ship when you say you do.

30 people with luggage move at glacier speed, so you will not get on the bus and be ready to go for an hour. Then allow time to get to the casino.

It's now 10:30 - 11:00 AM.

 

You have about 2 hours to play at the casino before gathering the troops to board the bus to the airport. Next thing you know you're at the gate waiting for your flight.

 

Time flies when you are having fun! It's not as long as it sounds!

 

Good Luck....and GOD BLESS anyone travelling with a group of 30!!! HAHA!

 

Yes, there will be a bus to meet us. You are right about the speed of all this happening - time does fly! Appreciate your suggestions.

[Music City]

Yes, there will be a bus to meet us. You are right about the speed of all this happening - time does fly! Appreciate your suggestions.

 

The problem you might have with the bus is that most likely whoever is in charge made the booking for port pickup and delivery to the airport only for a flat charge. If you keep the bus and driver for several hours it's most likely going to cost more unless they are charging you a minimum of 4 hours anyway.

 

My suggestion is to get off the ship as quickly as possible (as you have already planned) and head north about 10 miles to 1 Commercial Blvd., Lauderdale By the Sea, FL. Have the bus drop everyone off there and return to pick everyone up at 1:00 PM, which will get you back to the airport in plenty of time for your 3:00 PM departure.

 

From that spot you can walk straight onto the beach or sit on a bench under the pavillion overlooking the beach. You could walk out onto the fishing pier or choose from all kinds of unique restaurants like Aruba Beach Cafe or The Village Grille. You will be surrounded by all sorts of mom & pop shops for some last minute shopping or you can have an ice cream cone (probably a little later in the morning, though). LBTS has something for everyone all within a few short blocks.

 

http://www.lbts.com/

[royalcruz]

I am sorry to trouble you with this question as I am sure it has been asked many dozens of times... (you have so many posts!! Goodness me!) I am looking for a hotel in Ft Lauderdale that provides airport - hotel - pier - hotel - airport transfer? We will be staying for a couple of nights pre-cruise and then one after and am not sure where to start looking. Also we would like to find a hotel that is reasonable in price (and clean!) for the month of our cruise in April? Thank you for your time and help!

 

April is an expensive month. You might find best prices and acceptable accomodations at Sleep Inn in Dania Beach and Hampton Inn in Plantation. I believe they provide what you are looking for, free breakfast, and restaurants within an easy walk. For the 2 nights precruise you might have more fun in the beach area...none of the beach hotels seem to offer free transfers but the cab fare is under $20 to Best Western Oceanside and Bahia Mar and they tend to have good rates.

[Charlot11]

Hello,

I want to know what is the best for quality/prices for a pre-cruise in FLL.

Is the Hyatt Place Airport South or North I should choose?

Or what else could I find for 3 adults?

Thank you

We are leaving March 19th.

 

Charlot

[wendymac]

I am presently booked into the Hyatt Pier 66 - we chose this hotel because it appeared to have a good fitness centre - can anyone confirm this or recommend a hotel with a better fitness centre for a pre-cruise hotel. My BF is into free weights and stuff like that so I want something with a little more than just a couple of treadmills...any help would be much appreciated.

 

Thanks :)

[royalcruz]

Hello,

I want to know what is the best for quality/prices for a pre-cruise in FLL.

Is the Hyatt Place Airport South or North I should choose?

Or what else could I find for 3 adults?

Thank you

We are leaving March 19th.

 

Charlot

 

Hyatt Place south is much newer. Hyatt Place north is reputed to have some rooms with odors. North is very close to Total Wine and at least a dozen restaurants. South is close to Kmart, Barnes & Noble, discount stores and a few chain restaurants.