Overview Miami is widely considered to be the "Cruise Capital of the World." In fact, the Port of Miami is the largest cruise ship port in the world. As such, you can find most of the major cruise lines departing quite often from Miami.
Aside from its cruising aspect, Miami is also one of the most significant cultural and financial centers in the world, with many ties to various Latin American countries.
With its tropical climate, Miami is a very popular vacation spot. In fact, the hot and humid summers in Miami are very similar temperature-wise to those in the Caribbean. Because of this, many people that take cruises departing from Miami prefer to stay a few days in a Miami hotel (before and/or after the cruise) to add a few days to their vacation. Miami's wet season is considered to be from May through October, and is also when hurricanes are more likely to occur in Miami.
Destinations The following destinations can be visited on a cruise leaving from Miami, Florida:
Bahamas
Caribbean (Eastern, Southern & Western)
Panama Canal
Transatlantic
Currency The official currency of the United States is the dollar.
Language The official language is English, but there is a very large Spanish-speaking population in Miami as well.
Tourist Attractions Miami is definitely considered a hot spot among vacationing. This is because Miami has something that would interest anyone, from shopping and dining to beaches and night clubs.
South Beach (a section of Miami Beach) is perhaps the most popular tourist area in the Miami. South Beach is famous for its beach, nightclubs, spas, fashion prowess, restaurants and oceanfront hotels. Lincoln Road, an open-air mall, is widely considered to be the most popular shopping area in South Beach. Ocean Drive is a popular area among Spring Breakers and tourists, with a few popular nightlife spots in the area. During the Spring Break season you're sure to see lots of energetic college students out and about 24-hours a day, or so it would seem.
Parrot Jungle Island is a popular place to take your family, with its world renowned park. Here you can interact with various wildlife, such as birds, fish and reptiles. Monkey Jungle is another popular Miami attraction among wildlife enthusiasts. It's a Monkey habitat, with various observation areas with frequent shows. Don't forget about the Miami MetroZoo, another great place to take your family. This zoo has a wide range of wildlife to see, including elephants, tigers, rhinos, crocodiles and much more.
Sports fans won't be let down by Miami either. From Major League Baseball (the Florida Marlins) to NBA basketball (the Miami Heat) to NFL football (the Miami Dolphins), Miami is a great place to catch a live performance of some of the greatest athletes in the world.
The Deering Estate is a 444-acre area just off the Biscayne Bay. This estate serves as a archeological, environmental and historical preserve. Things to do here include canoe rides, guided nature tours and butterfly hikes. There are also a few historic buildings that can be explored.
Port Location & Parking Fees The Port of Miami is located about 10 miles from Miami International Airport (MIA), with a driving time of about 20 minutes. This cruise terminal is located about 25 miles from Fort Lauderdale International Airport (FLL), with a driving time of about 45 minutes. West Palm Beach International Airport (PBI) is about a 90 minute drive from the Port of Miami.
Taxis are available at either airport. Another option is to purchase ground transfers through the cruise line.
Address: Port of Miami
1015 N America Way
Miami, FL 33132
Parking Fees (subject to change):
$20 per day (for regular sized vehicles) for long-term parking.
The Miami Skyline at Sunset
South Beach
Ocean Drive in South Beach
Lincoln Road in South Beach
Parrot Jungle Island
Miami Beach
Deering Estate
Royal Caribbean Navigator of the Seas, departing from Miami
