Miami is the cruise capital of the world. PortMiami handled over 7 million passengers in 2025, and 2026 is shaping up to be even bigger with new terminal expansions and record Caribbean deployment from Royal Caribbean, MSC, and Carnival.
PortMiami: Getting There and Parking
PortMiami is located on Dodge Island, just minutes from downtown Miami. Rideshare (Uber/Lyft) from Miami International Airport runs about $25-35. If driving, the PortMiami Parking Garage charges $22/day for cruise passengers — book online in advance for a $5 discount.
The port’s new Terminal A (opened 2023) handles MSC Cruises, while Terminal B (Royal Caribbean’s private terminal) and Terminal C (Carnival) handle the other major lines.
[Book airport transfers to PortMiami via Welcome Pickups]
Major Cruise Lines Operating from Miami
| Cruise Line | Terminal | Ship Class | Caribbean Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Royal Caribbean | Terminal B | Icon/Spectrum Class | 3-8 nights |
| MSC Cruises | Terminal A | Meraviglia Class | 4-7 nights |
| Carnival | Terminal C | Conquest Class | 3-7 nights |
| Norwegian | Terminal B (shared) | Breakaway Class | 3-10 nights |
2026 Caribbean Itineraries from Miami
Most Miami departures head to the Eastern Caribbean (Bahamas, Puerto Rico, St. Thomas) or Western Caribbean (Mexico, Jamaica, Grand Cayman). A new trend in 2026: “Collector” sailings that combine Eastern and Western routes on 10-14 night voyages for passengers with more time.
[Search Caribbean cruises from Miami on Klook]
Before You Sail: Travel Insurance
Miami cruise departures are susceptible to weather disruptions, particularly during Atlantic hurricane season (June-November). AirHelp covers trip cancellations, delays, and baggage issues — essential for a Caribbean cruise where itinerary changes are common.
Hotel Stays: Pre- and Post-Cruise
If flying in the night before, Brickell’s hotel district is closest to the port. Kimpton EPIC Hotel and Mandarin Oriental Miami offer cruise packages with port shuttles. Budget option: Holiday Inn Port of Miami is walking distance from the terminal.
[Compare Miami hotels on Tiqets Experiences]
Miami’s cruise port is a well-oiled machine — arrive 2-3 hours before departure, bring ID and cruise confirmation, and you’re aboard.
Want to turn travel into a career? Join Travel Arbitrage Partners