Updated for 2024
A step-by-step guide for cruise passengers traveling from Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood Airport (FLL) and hotels to PortMiami using the very popular Brightline train.
It is often cheaper to fly to Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood Airport when cruising from PortMiami. Fort Lauderdale area hotels are also generally cheaper than those near PortMiami. Therefore, on cruise day, many passengers must transfer from Fort Lauderdale Airport or hotels to PortMiami and the Brightline train is certainly worth considering.
Brightline Considerations for Cruisers
Brightline to PortMiami is not the fastest option, it is not the most convenient, and it is certainly not the cheapest. But the train is friendly, stylish, relaxing, and comfortable and Brightline offers wonderful onboard service.
Should you consider Brightline for your transfer from Fort Lauderdale to PortMiami? Please consider the following then decide if Brighline is still a preferred option for you and your family:
Booking App
While you can book with a browser and computer, it is best to install the Brightline App on your smartphone and learn to navigate it! If you don’t have the App, it is difficult to manage your booking when there are delays and more. Please read the booking small print about service classes, baggage, and mobility options. Read below for step-by-step booking directions.
Transit App
Recommended by Brightline, the nationwide Transit App shows arrival and departure times for various transportation options near Miami and Fort Lauderdale. You can see the Brightline Trains and Shuttles in real time!
Travel time
It is about 45 minutes between the stations. Then add the road transfer from the airport (6 miles – 20 minutes) or your hotel to Fort Lauderdale station, and about 15 minutes from Miami station to PortMiami. Read below for hotel options within 5 miles of the train station.
Costs
Brightline fares are based on service class and departure time. Then add the costs of the station transfers. Read below for service class comparisons and complimentary transfers for Premium tickets (under 5 miles only).
Baggage Limits
It is best to pack light and to travel with carry-on luggage. On Brightline, larger suitcases must be checked in at $10 each. Read below for size guidelines.
How to Book Brightline and Parking or Transfers
I assume you are using the Brightline App.
1. Open the App and start a new booking – in this case from Fort Lauderdale Station to Miami
2. Choose your travel date and time by clicking on the calendar. There are many departures daily. Please make sure your departure time and arrival time are in sync with your flight arrival time and cruise boarding time.
3. Decide between SMART or PREMIUM service! The App will show the differences:
4. Complete your passenger details.
5. Select your seats
7. If needed, add extra services. Parking at Fort Lauderdale Station is one option. Do you have luggage to check in? Please, read the baggage rules for Brighline and understand the size and weight limits for carry-on bags.
Next, it is time to select your rides to and from the Brightline Stations. Brightline partners with Uber to offer rides within a 5-mile radius of each Southern Florida station.
PortMiami is within 5 miles of Miami Station. If UberX serves your needs then the transfer is FREE for PREMIUM tickets. UberXL or other vehicles are not free.
Unfortunately, Fort Lauderdale Airport is 6 miles from the station. If the Brightline App has issues with finding rides you can book a ride in the Uber (or Lyft) app. About $20 for UberX, $28 for UberXL
Brightline has shared shuttle vans from Fort Lauderdale Airport to Brightline Station starting at $10 per person for the first guest. These are first-come-first-serve at this time. Please use the Transit App to see the departure times!
In my example, I am traveling from a hotel within a 5-mile radius and UberX rides are free for PREMIUM tickets.
Unfortunately, most cruise passengers require UberXL because they have large suitcases! UberXL rides are not free.
At this time, you must choose your ride from Miami Station to PortMiami – please take your time to provide the correct cruise ship and terminal!
8. Double-check the summary. If you have a PREMIUM ticket using UberX, the transfers are complimentary! You then continue the checkout process.
Hotels within a 5-mile Radius of Fort Lauderdale Brightline Station
The station is about 6 miles north of Fort Lauderdale Airport – 101 NW 2nd Ave, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33311
To save travel time on departure day, it is best to book a hotel close to Brightline Station. Fortunately, most Fort Lauderdale hotels between Fort Lauderdale Airport and the station are within the 5-mile Brightline Mobility radius. Do NOT book Hollywood hotels.
To be sure, check the travel distance and time using the map software on your phone.
Brightline Miami Station
It is located at 600 NW 1st Ave., Miami, FL 33136
Miami Station is becoming a destination in itself with shops, restaurants, and general retail services in the works! You can read more here: Brightline Miami
Comparing Costs between Brightline and other options
UberX – from the Embassy Suites to PortMiami – $40 per ride (not per person)
UberXL – from the Embassy Suites to PortMiami – $80 per ride (not per person)