Miami Cruise Port is notorious as the “Cruise Capital of the World”. Also known as PortMiami, in 2019, it handled over 6.8 million cruise passengers and 55 cruise ships from 22 cruise lines, explaining a little as to why the port of Miami is important.
As the world’s largest and busiest cruise port, navigating Miami Cruise Port can be somewhat complex. If your cruise ship is making a stop there, then it’s worth doing some research to help you make the most of your visit there.
Our blog below provides all you need to know about Miami Cruise Port, answering key questions such as where do cruise ships dock in Miami, how to get to Miami from the cruise port and what to do in Miami on port days.
Where do cruise ships dock in Miami, Florida?
Sailing into Miami Cruise Port is spectacular. Sheltered in Biscayne Bay, on Dodge Island east of downtown Miami, it is part of PortMiami’s 518-acre site. As you get closer, the iconic skyline of this magnificent city, its stunning beaches and the Macarthur Causeway are certainly worth getting out on deck to see.
Over the last few years, PortMiami has been undergoing significant regeneration. Soon, there will be 11 Miami cruise terminals, each well-equipped with modern facilities, including Wi-Fi access, waiting areas and bathrooms.
Then, just across the causeway, you’ll find Bayside Marketplace, which has a wide variety of shops, restaurants and entertainment.
Each of Miami’s cruise terminals is operated mainly by one cruise line, as listed below:
Terminal AA/AAA – MSC Cruises (due to open in 2023)
Terminal A (‘The Crown of Miami) – Royal Caribbean
Terminal B – (‘The Pearl of Miami’) Norwegian Cruise Line
Terminal C – Disney Cruise Line & MSC
Terminals D & E – Carnival Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, P&O Cruises & Holland America Line
Terminal F – Carnival Cruise Line
Terminal G – Royal Caribbean & Celebrity Cruises
Terminal J – Oceania Cruises, Regent Seven Seas, Azamara and other small or luxury cruise lines
Terminal K – Disney Cruise Line (due to open in 2023)
Terminal V (previously Terminal H) – Virgin Voyages
How far is Miami from the cruise port?
The distance from Miami Cruise Port to the city centre is 1.5 – 2 miles. Travelling over the bridge via Port Boulevard, you can get there on foot, which will take around half an hour.
You can also get taxis from any of Miami’s cruise terminals. Travel by taxi will take approximately 5 minutes and cost $10-14. The city of Miami also runs a free service known as the Coral Way Trolley, which travels around the city and offers connections from Miami Cruise Port to the city centre.
However, the service stops at the west end of the port, which is a short walk if your cruise ship is docked at Terminal A or Terminal B.
Is there anything near Miami Cruise Port?
If you are looking for what to do in Miami Cruise Port, with the city centre quite close, there are plenty of options.
Bayside Marketplace
Bayside Marketplace is only half a mile from Miami Cruise Port and is a great place to visit for a few hours. As well as the gorgeous views over Biscayne Bay, the marketplace is a vibrant place to shop or dine. You can also jump on a sightseeing boat tour to explore Miami’s waterways.
South Beach
The iconic South Beach is packed with glamour and spectacular views, offering some of the best activities by Miami Cruise Port. If you simply want to spend time relaxing in the sun, it’s worth getting a day pass from one of the many luxury beachside hotels, giving you access to their pools, sunbeds and other plush facilities.
Also in the area, you’ll find remarkable Art Deco architecture, the infamous Lincoln Road with over 200 designer boutiques and the stunning Sunset Harbour, which is brimming with restaurants, more shops and a variety of water sports.
South Beach is just over five miles from Miami Cruise Port. Taxis will take around 10 minutes, and buses that take approximately 30 minutes are also available.
Little Havana
Little Havana is a historic Cuban neighbourhood located just a few miles from the port and is a great place to visit when looking for what to do in Miami on port days. Here, you can enjoy authentic Cuban cuisine and live music while learning about the city’s rich Cuban culture.
Vizcaya Museum and Gardens
This stunning Italian Renaissance-style villa is just four miles from Miami Cruise Port. Explore the ornate mansion, filled with historic furniture, tapestries and art collections, then enjoy wandering amongst the sculptures, fountains and pools in its beautiful seaside garden.
Wynwood Walls
If you love art, one of the best activities by Miami Cruise Port is discovering the open-air art exhibit at Wynwood Walls. In this regenerated warehouse district, you can peruse large-scale canvas and hand-sprayed murals from international artists.
The Everglades National Park
Everglades National Park is definitely worth considering if you are looking for an adventure when deciding what to do in Miami Cruise Port. While it is a bit of a drive away, there are day excursions available that offer this unique experience.
Walking the numerous boardwalks over the watery area, you’ll have the chance to see alligators, birds, and other wildlife in their natural habitat. There are also sightseeing boat trips and guided nature walks.
