Disney Cruise Line has officially opened its new cruise terminal at Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. This marks the cruise line’s second year-round homeport in Florida, in addition to Port Canaveral near Orlando. The new terminal provides guests with a seamless and magical embarkation experience as they set sail for tropical destinations in the Bahamas and Caribbean.
Immersive Theme and Design
The 104,000-square-foot terminal has been completely reimagined by Walt Disney Imagineering to transport guests into the mesmerizing undersea world of Disney and Pixar’s Finding Nemo. As you enter the terminal, you’ll see colorful murals of fish, rays, coral, and other characters from the film. It feels like you’re diving into the ocean and swimming through a vibrant reef. In addition to the Finding Nemo theming, the terminal incorporates signature Disney touches like familiar fonts, icons, and bold colors. There’s no doubt you’re about to embark on a Disney cruise when you step inside. It’s truly a one-of-a-kind terminal designed specifically for Disney Cruise Line.
Streamlined Embarkation Process
The new terminal allows Disney Cruise Line to provide their signature seamless embarkation process. There are plenty of check-in counters to prevent long lines, and staff is on hand to guide guests every step of the way. Luggage drops and security checkpoints are spacious and well-organized. The flow through the terminal is intuitive so guests don’t feel overwhelmed navigating to the ship. Once checked in, families can relax in the comfortable lounge areas while waiting to board. The terminal offers charging stations, complimentary Wi-Fi, and clean restrooms as well. Boarding groups are called in a timely manner so guests don’t have to wait too long before stepping on board.
Proximity to Airports and Attractions
A major perk of Port Everglades is its close proximity to three major international airports: Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood, Miami International, and Palm Beach International. This gives guests ample options for flying in before or after their cruise. The port’s location in Greater Fort Lauderdale also gives cruisers easy access to pristine beaches, shopping, dining, and family activities. Guests can enjoy some time on land before or after their sailing. Walt Disney World Resort is also just a few hours drive away. Families can easily combine a land and sea vacation by pairing a Disney Cruise with a stay at Disney’s parks and resorts.
Itineraries from Fort Lauderdale
The Disney Dream will homeport in Fort Lauderdale year-round, offering 3-, 4-, and 5-night Caribbean and Bahamian cruises. Popular destinations include:
- Castaway Cay – Disney’s private island in the Bahamas reserved for cruise guests
- Nassau – The capital of the Bahamas with beaches, historical sites, and shopping
- Grand Cayman – Known for Seven Mile Beach, Stingray City, and scuba diving
- Cozumel – A Mexican island famous for snorkeling, beaches, and Mayan ruins
- Disney’s Lookout Cay – A new private island destination opening in 2024
In 2024, the Disney Magic will join the Dream sailing from Fort Lauderdale, alternating 3-4 night Bahamas and Caribbean voyages.
Port Everglades Terminal
Disney Cruise Line has fully renovated Cruise Terminal 4 at Port Everglades specifically for their ships and guests. Some highlights and amenities of the terminal include:
- Dedicated Disney Cruise Line parking garage with a covered walkway to the terminal
- Easy access from I-595, I-95, and Florida’s Turnpike
- Complimentary luggage service and porters
- Family restrooms with child amenities like diaper-changing stations
- Pet relief area for service animals
- ADA accessible facilities
- Free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal
- Digital signage with boarding information and wayfinding maps
- Phone charging stations and luggage scales
- Comfortable, spacious lounge areas with seating
- Designated check-in counters for Concierge and Castaway Club guests
The new terminal ensures that Disney cruisers will feel the magic as soon as they arrive at Port Everglades to start their vacation at sea. With its prime location, proximity to major airports, tropical itineraries, and renovated Disney terminal, Port Everglades is an excellent departure point for magical family vacations. The new state-of-the-art terminal provides the signature seamless Disney embarkation process that sets their cruises apart from all others.
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