9 Night Southern Caribbean Cruise on Grandeur of the Seas from Fort Lauderdale, Florida Couple Relaxing Nellies Beach Bungalow, Labadee, Haiti
The 9 Night Southern Caribbean Cruise from Fort Lauderdale, Florida visits Labadee, Haiti; Willemstad, Curacao; Oranjestad, Aruba; Kralendijk, Bonaire; Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Explore our cruise itineraries and choose from a variety of rooms depending on your needs and budget. Start planning your next cruise vacation by selecting a destination and departure port.
Royal Caribbean Cruises
Priced from: $484.0 per person 4 sailing dates available
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9 Night Southern Caribbean Cruise
Itinerary Overview
Explore Grandeur of the Seas
Day 1 - Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Day 2 - Cruising
Day 3 - Labadee, Haiti
Day 4 - Cruising
Day 5 - Willemstad, Curacao
Day 6 - Oranjestad, Aruba
Day 7 - Kralendijk, Bonaire
Day 8 - 9 - Cruising
Day 10 - Fort Lauderdale, Florida
View Itinerary
Couple Relaxing Nellies Beach Bungalow, Labadee, Haiti
Couple Relaxing Nellies Beach Bungalow, Labadee, Haiti
This is your

9 Night Southern Caribbean Cruise

Explore This Itinerary
Leaving from
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Onboard
Grandeur of the Seas
Day Port
1
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Departs at 4:00 PM
2
Cruising
Day at sea
3
Labadee, Haiti
From 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM
4
Cruising
Day at sea
5
Willemstad, Curacao
From 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM
6
Oranjestad, Aruba
From 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
7
Kralendijk, Bonaire
From 7:00 AM - 3:00 PM
8 - 9
Cruising
Day at sea
10
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Arrives at 7:00 AM
*Port sequence may vary by sailing date.
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Your ship Grandeur of the Seas

Your ship
Grandeur of the Seas
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Grandeur of the Seas, Side View, Southeast Coast, Bahamas, Canada and New England Destinations
Side View of Grandeur of the Seas With Destinations in Bahamas, the Southeast Coast, Canada, and New England
Get to know
Grandeur of the Seas
Grandeur of the Seas® is the ultimate cruise adventure. It's the perfect blend of unbelievable shores and unique experiences onboard, like movie nights under the stars, imagination-defying dishes at Chef's Table, and entertainment that takes you from Broadway to Buenos Aires.

ENJOY MORE BETWEEN SHORES

There's a reason Grandeur of the Seas® is a favorite for adventure. Maybe it's the views from the Rock Climbing Wall, or the poolside movies beneath the sky. It could be the kitchen-conquering culinary classes, or the ooh- and ahh-inducing services at Vitality℠ at Sea Spa and Fitness Center. Why don't you be the judge?

IT'S A PALATE PARTY

Trade boring bites for far out flavor with five palate pleasing courses at Chef's Table, sizzling steaks seared to perfection at Chop's Grille℠, classic cocktails at R Bar, and inclusive amenities and services at the Diamond Club, exclusive to Crown & Anchor® Society Diamond members and above.

HIT THE LIGHTS

Whether you're singing along to your favorite showtunes at Broadway Rhythm & Vine, brushing up your boleo in Tango Buenos Aires or belting out classics at the Schooner Bar, you'll find a new adventure on every stage.

Day 1: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Day 1
Fort Lauderdale
Florida
View Itinerary
Waterway in Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Waterway in Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Things to do in
Fort Lauderdale
Departs at 4:00 PM
Fort Lauderdale delivers the best of both worlds— beach basking and glitzy cosmopolitan appeal. From serene Hugh Taylor Birch State Park to the buzzing Boardwalk of Hollywood (that’s Florida, not California), there’s a stretch of sand for every style of beachgoer. And jumbo yachts roam more than 300 miles of waterways in this “Venice of America.” Hitch a ride on the free Water Taxi or cruise on the Jungle Queen Riverboat before or after your Fort Lauderdale cruise. Head to the historic Stranahan House for a glimpse into Fort Lauderdale’s history and be sure to hit its modern-day backyard: the people-watching mecca of Las Olas Boulevard.
Riverwalk High Rise, Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Riverwalk High Rise, Fort Lauderdale, Florida

STREET SCENE

Las Olas Boulevard, nestled next door to downtown, is the entertainment core of Fort Lauderdale. It has a mile of upscale shops and al fresco dining that runs past high-rises and into the RiverWalk, where you can catch the free water trolley for a cruise across mega-mansion-lined canals.
Bird's eye view of A1A, Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Bird's eye view of A1A, Fort Lauderdale, Florida

VITAMIN SEA

Soak up the sun, sand and seaside fun along Fort Lauderdale Beach. Walk along the palm-lined “Strip” on State Road A1A to get your fill of beach bars, souvenir shops and outdoor restaurants. Fort Lauderdale cruises allow you to go full throttle on a Jet Ski®— or go parasailing high above the ocean.
Everglades Bird Close Up, Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Everglades Bird Close Up, Fort Lauderdale, Florida

GLADES OF GLORY

Head west and explore the Florida Everglades, an untamed river of grass spanning 2,200 acres of picturesque wetlands. Whether you take a wild ride in an airboat or splash around in a swamp buggy, you’ll encounter wild alligators and native birds thriving among Florida’s finest natural landscapes.
Fresh Seafood Platter, Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Fresh Seafood Platter, Fort Lauderdale, Florida

LOCAL CUISINE

You’d be hard-pressed to find a more authentic Fort Lauderdale dining experience than eating fresh-off-the-boat seafood in a waterfront eatery. Local “Floribbean” cuisine melds Caribbean and Latin-influenced flavors with locally caught fish, shrimp and crab. Surf-and-turf joints line every inch of A1A along the beach, while white tablecloths drape the majority of Las Olas sidewalk restaurants.
Beachwear Hats Shop, Fort Lauderdale, Florida
TBeachwear Hats Shop, Fort Lauderdale, Florida

SHOPPING

Pick up beachwear at The Gallery at Beach Place, or find rare books and handmade hats on Hollywood Boulevard. Dania’s Antique Row is home to some 100 dealers, while art galleries and unusual boutiques line Las Olas Boulevard. For serious bargains, head to the Sawgrass Mills outlet sprawl.

Day 2: Cruising

Day 2
Cruising
At Sea
View Itinerary
Vitality Spa Couple Massage Relaxing
Vitality Spa Couple Massage Relaxing
PLAY ANY WAY YOU LIKE

Solarium

Slip away to this adults-only indoor and outdoor retreat. The Solarium is your slice of paradise, with soothing whirlpools, warm sunshine and a refreshing water mist.
Navigator of the Seas Adventure Ocean
Girl Playing with Dolls at Adventure Ocean

Adventure Ocean®

“Are we there yet?” is a thing of the past. We keep every kid entertained with games, events, age-appropriate activities and more in our award-winning youth program.
Boardwalk Arcade Skee Ball
Close-Up the Skee Ball on the Boardwalk Arcade

Arcade

Blips, bleeps, clangs and cheers. Play to win in a classic arcade atmosphere with timeless games, plus the latest at the Royal Caribban Arcade.
Whirlpool at Night
Beautiful Night on the Pool Deck

Whirlpools

It’s easy to let every thought melt away while relaxing in a whirlpool, especially when you’re soaking up ocean views, too.

Day 3: Labadee, Haiti

Day 3
Labadee
Haiti
View Itinerary
Zip Lines on the Coast, Labadee, Haiti
Zip Lines on the Coast, Labadee, Haiti
Things to do in
Labadee
From 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Beachside meets mountainside on the shores of Labadee — a Royal Caribbean® private destination on Haiti’s northern coast. Here you’ll find pristine sands, coral reefs and jungle-covered hilltops nestling lagoon-like bays. There’s no shortage of places to relax and recharge across five stretches of beach. Or dial up the thrills on an active adventure like a half-mile-long zip line ride over the ocean. And fascinating culture, history and the natural beauty of Haiti’s spectacular coasts wait to be discovered around every corner. Escape to the Western Caribbean for a wilder way to experience paradise.
Labadee Haiti Man Cliff Diving off a Cave Rock
Labadee Haiti Man Cliff Diving off a Cave Rock

FLIP FLOPS & MOUNTAINTOPS

Labadee is a private destination just for Royal Caribbean® guests on Haiti’s northern coast where beachside and mountainside converge. A Labadee cruise will give you a front row seat to the natural beauty of the island’s spectacular coasts. If it’s thrills you’re after, there are plenty of ways to fill your day with adventure. But there’s also no shortage of places to relax and recharge across five stretches of beach. Sugar-white sands, swaying palm trees and rolling green mountains provide an idyllic backdrop to the island getaway of your daydreams — so settle in and set your sight on paradise.
Labadee Haiti Man Parasailing by the Coast
Labadee Haiti Man Parasailing by the Coast

CHASE ADVENTURE IN PARADISE

Beyond the beaches, a cruise to Labadee leads you to a true thrill-seekers playground. The island is home to endless adrenaline-amping adventures. Whether you go gliding superman-style across the ocean, bouncing along floating trampolines on the water — or anywhere in between — your heart will be racing with excitement in no time. And if sightseeing is more your speed, you can rev up the action on that too, with a parasail or speedboat ride along the coast. What thrill will you chase first? No matter what you choose, exhilarating adventures await.
Local Musicians Playing Instruments for Guests, Labadee, Haiti
Local Musicians Playing Instruments for Guests, Labadee, Haiiti

RHYTHM & VIEWS

Immerse yourself in the rich history and colorful culture of Labadeeon a guided walking, kayak or speedboat tour of the island. Step into Le Village, an authentic Haitian teaching village where you can experience the sights, sounds and rhythms of everyday life. Listen to local music and watch as coffee and peanut butter are made from scratch before visiting the fishermen’s boats to check out the fresh catch of the day. Explore the ruins of a trading post dedicated to a tenacious entrepreneur of old at Nellie’s Tower. Then listen for the sound of the “breathing” beast at Dragon’s Rock —where waves crash into shoreline rocks.

Day 4: Cruising

Day 4
Cruising
At Sea
View Itinerary
Chops Grille Rosemary Steak Juicy
Chops Grille Rosemary Steak Juicy
LET THE FLAVOR FEST BEGIN
Anthem of the Seas Izumi Sushi Chef
Sushi Chef Serving a Salmon Roll

Izumi

From delicious sushi rolls to fresh sashimi and nigiri, Izumi serves up an exotic Asian-inspired dining experience. Savor izakaya-style appetizers and rolls that range from classic to imaginative. No matter what you order, you’re in for a far out, Far East feast filled with incredible flavors from Tohoku to Tokyo.
Main Dining Room Sliced Steak Topped With Sea Salt
Two slices of steak topped with sea salt served with a side of vegetables at the Main Dining Room

Main Dining Room

In the Main Dining Room, you can experience flavors that take you from Jamaica to Jaipur, a rotating menu of delicious dishes always offering something unexpected. A multi-level restaurant that in the morning is the perfect spot to enjoy a hearty brunch paired with refreshing mimosas, at dinnertime transforms into a world class dining experience with a menu that invites you to taste your way around the world course by course.
Lamb Cutlet & Vegetables - Chefs Table Restaurant
Lamb Cutlet & Vegetables at the elegant Chefs Table restaurant. Enjoy cruise line fine dining menu with artisanal ingredients

Chef's Table

Welcome to Chef’s Table, the most exclusive and elevated dining experience on our fleet. Join an intimate group of fellow foodies on a private epicurean journey led by the ship’s Chef de Cuisine. You’ll sit down to a white tablecloth dinner spotlighting five exquisite courses that range from scallop carpaccio with yuzu vinaigrette, to grilled filet mignon served with truffle potato puree — each expertly paired with the perfect wine to highlight every flavor on the menu.
Cafe Promenade Croissant and Coffee
Cafe Promenade Croissant and Coffee Close Up

Café Latte-tudes

When you find yourself craving a steaming hot cuppa, Café Latte-tudes has just what you need. From a nice breakfast blend to get you going to an after-dinner cappuccino or macchiato, you’ll find all your favorite sweets and specialty coffee beverages at this cozy cafe.

Day 5: Willemstad, Curacao

Day 5
Willemstad
Curacao
View Itinerary
Nature Ocean Mountain Island, Willemstad, Curacao
Nature Ocean Mountain Island, Willemstad, Curacao
Things to do in
Willemstad
From 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Curaçao is a treasure trove of cultural attractions, rich history, and natural scenery — from desert landscapes and rugged cliffs to 38 spectacular, and mostly secluded, beaches. Sint Anna Bay separates the two sides of the capital of Willemstad. Punda, the original settlement, is a tidy grid filled with shops and unique markets, restaurants and open-air cafes. Not to mention the famous tropicalized Dutch architecture in vibrant hues. Otrobanda (literally, “the other side”) is a maze of narrow streets and even narrower alleyways. And at only 40 miles long, a wide variety of island adventures are within easy reach during your Curaçao cruise.
Waves Crashing Shete Boka Park, Willemstad, Curacao
Waves Crashing Shete Boka Park, Willemstad, Curacao

STOP FOR A PHOTO OP

Take a scenic ride through Shete Boka Park for three incredible sites— the Boka Tabla, where waves break so high against a rocky inlet they look like a geyser; the Boka Pistol, where giant waves make a thunderous sound as they crash into an underground cavern; and the natural bridge which the ocean has carved out of the rock.
Insider tip
Be sure to catch the swinging Queen Emma Bridge in action from the deck during sailaway.
Christoffel National Park, Willemstad, Curacao
Christoffel National Park, Willemstad, Curacao

TAKE A HIKE

Head to the 4,450-acre wildlife preserve, Christoffel Park National Curaçao, to spend the day immersed in unspoiled nature. Hike or bike any of eight trails and get to know the indigenous flora and fauna— like white-tailed deer, barn owls, blue iguanas, and rare wild orchids.
Insider tip
The tap water is safe to drink and refreshingly good thanks to the seawater distillery.
Hato Caves Underground Nature, Willemstad, Curacao
Hato Caves Underground Nature, Willemstad, Curacao

HISTORY AND MYSTERY

Discover stalagmites, stalactites, unique species and local lore inside the Hato Caves. These ancient limestone caverns are filled with pools, waterfalls, and 1,500-year-old cave paintings. Cruise to Curaçao and cross the mystical underground lake before entering two large caverns lined with ancient Arawak petroglyphs.
Peanut Soup, Willemstad, Curacao
Peanut Soup, Willemstad, Curacao

Local Cuisine

For a taste of the real Curacao, explore the capital and stop at local eateries like Plaza Bieu, Trio Penotti or La Boheme. At spots like these, you'll find a storm of local flavors reflective of the cultural mix. Try kabritu, curried goat stew, or ayaka, meat-filled tamales wrapped in banana leaves. Or savor African peanut soup with bananas.
Willemstad, Curacao, Dresses at market
An assortment of dresses for sale at a market

Shopping

Walk by multicolored storefronts filled with local arts and crafts in the Punda and Otrobanda districts. Or venture into the New Market, a place to find handicrafts from Curacao, like the quintessential Dutch clogs, and souvenirs like hammocks from neighboring islands.

Day 6: Oranjestad, Aruba

Day 6
Oranjestad
Aruba
View Itinerary
Divi-divi Tree at Sunset on Eagle Beach, Oranjestad, Aruba
Divi-divi Tree at Sunset on Eagle Beach, Oranjestad, Aruba
Things to do in
Oranjestad
From 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Welcome to Aruba— or as the locals say, Bon bini. Here Dutch traditions mix with island charm. The capital and port town of Oranjestad, is best known for its colorful Dutch Colonial ‘gingerbread’ houses painted in bright Caribbean hues. While Aruba is only 20 miles from tip to tip, it is packed with incredible contrasts. Cruise to Aruba and go from relaxing in a tropical paradise to trekking rugged desert in no time. The southern coast is one giant photo op— a bustling port town surrounded by powdery white beaches and crystal-clear aquamarine waters. To the north, waves crash onto a rocky coast, scattered with cliffs, cacti and divi-divi trees. Best of all, you don’t have to choose which spots to hit— just which to hit first.
Rocky Volcanic Stone Circles of the Natural Pool, "Conchi", Oranjestad, Aruba
Rocky Volcanic Stone Circles of the Natural Pool, "Conchi", Oranjestad, Aruba

ROADS LESS TRAVELED

Buckle up for an off-road 4X4 ride through the rough and rugged Aruba Arikok National Park. Along the way, you’ll spot the local plants and wildlife of the craggy but beautiful coastline on your way to Conchi, a natural pool created by the ocean’s relentless crashing waves.
Insider tip
Free trolleys run in a loop from the port to the downtown area.
California Lighthouse Midday, Oranjestad, Aruba
California Lighthouse Midday, Oranjestad, Aruba

CALIFORNIA DREAMIN’

Perched on the northwestern tip of the island, you can climb to the top of the recently renovated California Lighthouse for panoramic views of the crashing waves of the windward coast. From 100 feet up, you can even see the tranquil waters of the leeward shore.
Insider tip
Locals love lunch, so this is when you’ll find great specials.
Rocky shore at Boca Prins Beach, Arikok National Park, Oranjestad, Aruba
Rocky shore at Boca Prins Beach, Arikok National Park, Oranjestad, Aruba

SEA FLOOR EXPLORING

The water off Aruba is teeming with marine life and you can see it all up close by riding in a high-tech submarine 150 feet below the sea. As you explore in comfort during your Aruba cruise, you'll pass schools of tropical fish, huge sponge gardens, colorful coral reefs, wreck sites and even scuba divers.
A Bowl of Pumpkin Soup, Oranjestad, Aruba
A Bowl of Pumpkin Soup, Oranjestad, Aruba

LOCAL CUISINE

Taste your way through the multicultural heritage of the island. Sample Argentine meat dishes, Venezuelan empanadas and arepas, and nutty Dutch cheeses. Or for something a little more Caribbean, try a hearty pumpkin soup or gumbo with some pan bati— a pancake made from wheat and corn flour.
Closeup of Colorful Dutch Architecture, Oranjestad, Aruba
Closeup of Colorful Dutch Architecture, Oranjestad, Aruba

SHOPPING

The three-story Royal Plaza Mall and Renaissance Mall offer incredible duty-free deals, all within easy walking distance of the port. Here you can snag luxury designer jewelry and watches, but also pick up traditional Dutch items like Delft (blue and white) pottery and locally made aloe products.

Day 7: Kralendijk, Bonaire

Day 7
Kralendijk
Bonaire
View Itinerary
Flamingos Flying Over Vegetation, Kralendijk, Bonaire
Flamingos Flying Over Vegetation, Kralendijk, Bonaire
Things to do in
Kralendijk
From 7:00 AM - 3:00 PM
It's always sunny in the port of Kralendijk, Bonaire, where the daylight shines for nearly 12 hours a day on pink salt flats and turquoise seas. The coral reefs surrounding its shores are home to more than 400 species of marine life, earning the island the nickname "Diver's Paradise." For some of the best snorkeling, head to the islet of Klein Bonaire. Hop on a glass-bottomed gondola for prime undersea views — no swimming required. Explore onshore at Washington Slagbaai National Park, which covers a fifth of the island and is home to birds, lizards and donkeys. You'll also find a wealth of cultural experiences throughout the island. With its dramatic desert landscape, mangrove lagoons and unrivaled dive spots, there are exceptional things to do in Kralendijk against the stunning backdrop of the Dutch Caribbean.

Chief of the Reef

On your cruise to Kralendijk, explore some of the 86 dive sites at Bonaire National Marine Park. The Hilma Hooker is among the many shipwrecks accessible on a dive, along with plenty of fish in splashes of color seen through crystal-clear waters. Pristine conditions can be attributed to decades of Bonaire's stringent environmental monitoring and protections.
Insider tip
Official dive sites accessible from the shore are marked by yellow stones on the coastal road.
Seaside Deck on Sorobon Beach in Kralendijk, Bonaire
Seaside Deck on Sorobon Beach in Kralendijk, Bonaire

Beach is Up

Unwind onshore or go windsurfing in the tranquil, shallow waters of Lac Bay, the largest bay in the ABC islands. A favorite location of tourists and locals alike is Sorobon Beach. The island's near-constant trade winds and bathtub-warm waters make for a windsurfer's dream. It's also fun to watch the action from shore.
Insider tip
Restaurants may include a standard 10-15% service charge on the bill. If not, a gratuity of 10-20% is appropriate.
Close up of Bananaquit Bird, Birdwatching, Kralendijk, Bonaire
Close up of Bananaquit Bird, Birdwatching, Kralendijk, Bonaire

For the Birds

Hike through Bonaire's historic plantations while mingling with parrots, parakeets and brown pelicans in Washington Slagbaai National Park. The island is a favorite of birdwatchers, with an estimated 210 species present. Bonaire is one of only four places in the world where Caribbean flamingos breed, which is why the flamingo has been named the national bird.
Insider tip
Black coral is protected, so avoid buying any jewelry or items made with it.
 Goat Stew Closeup, Kralendijk, Bonaire
Goat Stew Closeup, Kralendijk, Bonaire

Local Cuisine

On your trip to Kralendijk, you'll find unusual local fare combining Spanish, Dutch and other influences. Sample keshi yena (Dutch Edam cheese stuffed with meat) and kabritu stroba, a goat stew that's the national dish. A popular treat is a half-moon-shaped meat or fish pie (pastechi). Vegetarian versions are stuffed with Gouda or Edam cheese.
Flamingo Shaped Souvenirs, Kralendijk, Bonaire
Flamingo Shaped Souvenirs, Kralendijk, Bonaire

Shopping

For your fix of duty-free deals, head to Harborside Mall, just steps from the port in Kralendijk. You'll find luxury jewelry, flamingo-themed souvenirs and waterproof gear. The Bonaire Arts and Crafts Cruise Market sets up shop outdoors when ships are in port, and gives passengers the chance to browse art, handcrafts and snacks from local vendors.

Day 8 - 9: Cruising

Day 8 - 9
Cruising
At Sea
View Itinerary
Schooner Bar with Piano
QN, Quantum of the Seas, public spaces, Schooner Bar, piano, entertainment, lounge, dining, drinks
NIGHTS YOU'LL NEVER FORGET
Woman Enjoying Cocktails
Woman Enjoying Cocktails

R Bar

Swanky, sophisticated, and suffused with retro style, R Bar serves up classic cocktails garnished with vintage vibes. Whether your drink of choice is a dry gin martini, an expertly mixed old fashioned, or the perfect gin and tonic, you’ll find plenty to savor here.
Explorer of the Seas Pool Deck Night Time Outdoor Movie
Explorer of the Seas Pool Deck Night Time Outdoor Movie

Outdoor Movie Nights

Watch first-run movies and big time sporting events the way they were meant to be seen - on a 220 square foot outdoor movie screen above the main pool area. On select ships.
Original Production Cruise Show, Performers dressed in purple dancing, Royal Caribbean
Performers dressed in purple dancing on stage during an original production cruise show by Royal Caribbean

Original Productions

Royal Caribbean Productions, our own in-house production company, brings together world-class performers to star in awe-inspiring original shows from contemporary dance to headline musical acts, high diving, aerial acrobatics and more.
Entertainment,Casino, Dice,Craps, staff, couples, evening, playing, betting, gambling, entertainment, adults, 2011 Brand Campaign details, Oasis of the seas,

Casino

There's nothing to stir your sense of excitement like the sound of cards being shuffled, chips being stacked and slot machines paying out. Consider the Casino Royale℠ to be your little slice of Vegas right at sea— with thousands of square feet of lights, action, slots and tables.

Day 10: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Day 10
Fort Lauderdale
Florida
View Itinerary
Everglades Swamp, Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Everglades Swamp, Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Things to do in
Fort Lauderdale
Arrives at 7:00 AM
Fort Lauderdale delivers the best of both worlds— beach basking and glitzy cosmopolitan appeal. From serene Hugh Taylor Birch State Park to the buzzing Boardwalk of Hollywood (that’s Florida, not California), there’s a stretch of sand for every style of beachgoer. And jumbo yachts roam more than 300 miles of waterways in this “Venice of America.” Hitch a ride on the free Water Taxi or cruise on the Jungle Queen Riverboat before or after your Fort Lauderdale cruise. Head to the historic Stranahan House for a glimpse into Fort Lauderdale’s history and be sure to hit its modern-day backyard: the people-watching mecca of Las Olas Boulevard.
Riverwalk High Rise, Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Riverwalk High Rise, Fort Lauderdale, Florida

STREET SCENE

Las Olas Boulevard, nestled next door to downtown, is the entertainment core of Fort Lauderdale. It has a mile of upscale shops and al fresco dining that runs past high-rises and into the RiverWalk, where you can catch the free water trolley for a cruise across mega-mansion-lined canals.
Bird's eye view of A1A, Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Bird's eye view of A1A, Fort Lauderdale, Florida

VITAMIN SEA

Soak up the sun, sand and seaside fun along Fort Lauderdale Beach. Walk along the palm-lined “Strip” on State Road A1A to get your fill of beach bars, souvenir shops and outdoor restaurants. Fort Lauderdale cruises allow you to go full throttle on a Jet Ski®— or go parasailing high above the ocean.
Everglades Bird Close Up, Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Everglades Bird Close Up, Fort Lauderdale, Florida

GLADES OF GLORY

Head west and explore the Florida Everglades, an untamed river of grass spanning 2,200 acres of picturesque wetlands. Whether you take a wild ride in an airboat or splash around in a swamp buggy, you’ll encounter wild alligators and native birds thriving among Florida’s finest natural landscapes.
Fresh Seafood Platter, Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Fresh Seafood Platter, Fort Lauderdale, Florida

LOCAL CUISINE

You’d be hard-pressed to find a more authentic Fort Lauderdale dining experience than eating fresh-off-the-boat seafood in a waterfront eatery. Local “Floribbean” cuisine melds Caribbean and Latin-influenced flavors with locally caught fish, shrimp and crab. Surf-and-turf joints line every inch of A1A along the beach, while white tablecloths drape the majority of Las Olas sidewalk restaurants.
Beachwear Hats Shop, Fort Lauderdale, Florida
TBeachwear Hats Shop, Fort Lauderdale, Florida

SHOPPING

Pick up beachwear at The Gallery at Beach Place, or find rare books and handmade hats on Hollywood Boulevard. Dania’s Antique Row is home to some 100 dealers, while art galleries and unusual boutiques line Las Olas Boulevard. For serious bargains, head to the Sawgrass Mills outlet sprawl.

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