Fort Lauderdale, Florida, is a major hub for Caribbean cruising, and Royal Caribbean International is one of the leading cruise lines operating from this port. Known as the “Venice of America” for its scenic canals, Fort Lauderdale is the perfect starting point for your tropical adventure. Whether you’re seeking pristine beaches, exotic islands, or vibrant culture, Royal Caribbean offers a wide variety of itineraries that depart from Port Everglades, just minutes from downtown Fort Lauderdale.

This comprehensive guide covers all destinations served by Royal Caribbean from Fort Lauderdale, detailed itineraries, ship highlights, and insider tips for 2025 travelers.

Why Choose Fort Lauderdale for Your Cruise?

Fort Lauderdale’s location is ideal for Caribbean cruising. Advantages include:

• Proximity to major airports: Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) is just a few miles from Port Everglades.

• Shorter embarkation times: Smaller than Miami Port, offering faster check-in.

• Diverse itineraries: Eastern Caribbean, Western Caribbean, Southern Caribbean, Bahamas, and Central America.

• Cruise-friendly city amenities: Hotels, restaurants, shopping, and entertainment nearby.

Royal Caribbean’s Fort Lauderdale sailings are popular for both short getaways (3–4 nights) and longer Caribbean adventures (7–14 nights).

Eastern Caribbean Cruises From Fort Lauderdale

The Eastern Caribbean is known for its turquoise waters, white sand beaches, and cultural diversity. Royal Caribbean offers several itineraries from Fort Lauderdale to this region.

Popular Ports of Call

1. St. Maarten / Philipsburg

   • Divided into Dutch and French sides

   • Famous for shopping, beaches, and water sports

   • Popular excursions: Maho Beach plane spotting, snorkeling, island tours

2. St. Thomas / Charlotte Amalie

   • U.S. Virgin Islands

   • Known for duty-free shopping, historic sites, and snorkeling

   • Excursions: Magens Bay Beach, Coral World Ocean Park

3. San Juan, Puerto Rico

   • Spanish colonial architecture, historic forts, and vibrant nightlife

   • Excursions: El Yunque Rainforest, Old San Juan walking tours, bioluminescent bay trips

4. Labadee, Haiti (private Royal Caribbean port)

   • Private island exclusively for Royal Caribbean guests

   • Activities: Ziplining, beach relaxation, water sports, cabana rentals

5. Cozumel, Mexico (sometimes included in Eastern Caribbean routes)

   • Snorkeling and diving in coral reefs

   • Mayan ruins excursions

Sample Eastern Caribbean Itineraries

• 7-Night Eastern Caribbean CruiseDeparture: Fort Lauderdale → Labadee → St. Maarten → St. Thomas → Fort LauderdaleHighlights: Private island fun, tropical beaches, shopping in St. Maarten

• 5-Night Short Eastern Caribbean CruiseDeparture: Fort Lauderdale → Labadee → San Juan → Fort LauderdaleHighlights: Quick escape, perfect for first-time cruisers

Eastern Caribbean cruises are ideal for travelers seeking sun-soaked beaches, vibrant culture, and adventure activities.

Western Caribbean Cruises From Fort Lauderdale

Western Caribbean cruises are famous for adventure, nature, and historical sites. Royal Caribbean sailings from Fort Lauderdale explore Mexico, Belize, Jamaica, and Honduras.

Key Destinations

1. Cozumel, Mexico

   • Mayan ruins: Tulum, Chichen Itza excursions

   • Snorkeling, diving, and eco-parks

2. Costa Maya, Mexico

   • Beach clubs, Mayan ruins, and cenotes

   • Great for cultural and adventure excursions

3. Belize City / Belize Barrier Reef

   • Snorkeling and diving in world-famous reefs

   • Jungle tours, ziplining, and river canoeing

4. Roatán, Honduras

   • Caribbean island known for diving, snorkeling, and beaches

   • Nature tours and wildlife excursions

5. Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands

   • Seven Mile Beach, Stingray City, and snorkeling adventures

Sample Western Caribbean Itineraries

• 7-Night Western Caribbean CruiseFort Lauderdale → Cozumel → Costa Maya → Grand Cayman → Fort LauderdaleActivities: Beach time, cultural excursions, water adventures

• 4-Night Western Caribbean Weekend CruiseFort Lauderdale → Cozumel → Grand Cayman → Fort LauderdalePerfect for short vacations or weekend escapes

Western Caribbean cruises are ideal for travelers looking for a mix of culture, adventure, and water-based activities.

Southern Caribbean Cruises From Fort Lauderdale

Southern Caribbean cruises are slightly longer but offer exotic and less-visited destinations. These itineraries are perfect for travelers seeking unique island experiences.

Popular Southern Caribbean Ports

1. Aruba

   • White sand beaches and Dutch Caribbean charm

   • Excursions: Jeep tours, snorkeling, natural pools

2. Curacao

   • Colorful colonial architecture

   • Beaches and cultural excursions

3. Bonaire

   • Renowned for scuba diving

   • Nature reserves and marine activities

4. Barbados

   • Rich history, culture, and beaches

   • Rum tours, island exploration, and water sports

5. St. Lucia

   • Pitons, rainforests, and luxury beaches

   • Hiking and adventure excursions

Sample Southern Caribbean Itineraries

• 10-Night Southern Caribbean CruiseFort Lauderdale → Aruba → Curacao → Bonaire → Barbados → St. Lucia → Fort Lauderdale

• 14-Night Extended Southern Caribbean CruiseFort Lauderdale → Multiple islands including Antigua, Grenada, Barbados → Fort Lauderdale

Southern Caribbean itineraries are ideal for travelers seeking longer vacations with a mix of culture, nature, and relaxation.

Bahamas Cruises From Fort Lauderdale

For shorter getaways, Royal Caribbean offers Bahamas cruises from Fort Lauderdale. These itineraries are perfect for weekend trips or first-time cruisers.

Key Ports

1. Nassau, Bahamas

   • Famous for beaches, shopping, and resorts

   • Excursions: Atlantis Resort, snorkeling, cultural tours

2. CocoCay, Bahamas (private Royal Caribbean island)

   • Private island with waterparks, beaches, and cabanas

   • Exclusive activities for Royal Caribbean guests

Sample Bahamas Itineraries

• 3-Night Bahamas CruiseFort Lauderdale → Nassau → CocoCay → Fort LauderdaleIdeal for quick escapes and family fun

• 4-Night Bahamas CruiseFort Lauderdale → CocoCay → Nassau → Fort LauderdaleHighlights: Water activities, private island experiences

Bahamas cruises are perfect for short trips, families, or travelers looking for a quick tropical getaway.

Central American Cruises From Fort Lauderdale

For travelers seeking adventure and cultural exploration, Royal Caribbean also serves Central American destinations from Fort Lauderdale.

Popular Ports

1. Roatán, Honduras

   • Diving, snorkeling, and tropical beaches

2. Puerto Costa Maya, Mexico

   • Mayan ruins, jungle tours, cenotes

3. Belize City, Belize

   • Rainforest tours, barrier reef snorkeling

Sample Central American Itinerary

• 7-Night Western Caribbean / Central America CruiseFort Lauderdale → Roatán → Belize City → Costa Maya → Fort LauderdaleHighlights: Historical sites, tropical beaches, eco-adventures

Central American cruises are ideal for adventurous travelers and those interested in history and nature.

Tips for Choosing Your Royal Caribbean Cruise From Fort Lauderdale

1. Duration:

   • Bahamas: 3–5 nights

   • Eastern/Western Caribbean: 5–9 nights

   • Southern Caribbean: 10–14 nights

2. Ship Size & Amenities:

   • Oasis-class ships for ultimate entertainment, waterparks, and family-friendly activities

   • Smaller ships for intimate experiences

3. Season:

   • Winter: Popular for Eastern & Southern Caribbean

   • Summer: Great for Bahamas and Western Caribbean

4. Booking Excursions:

   • Book ahead for popular destinations like Labadee, CocoCay, and Aruba

   • Consider private tours for less crowded experiences

5. Travel Documents:

   • Passport required for all international ports

   • U.S. citizens need proper ID for Bahamas/Caribbean excursions

Final Thoughts

Royal Caribbean from Fort Lauderdale offers an impressive range of destinations to suit every traveler. From quick Bahamas getaways to extended Southern Caribbean adventures, the itineraries cater to families, couples, and solo travelers alike.

Whether you’re seeking white sandy beaches, cultural experiences, snorkeling adventures, or luxurious private islands, Fort Lauderdale is the perfect gateway for your next tropical cruise.

By planning your itinerary, booking excursions in advance, and understanding which ship and route suit your preferences, you can enjoy a seamless and unforgettable Caribbean cruise experience from Fort Lauderdale in 2025.