Key West & Bahamas Cruise 3 Nights • Fort Lauderdale, Florida • Brilliance of the Seas

A cruise out of the Fort Lauderdale cruise port is one of the most popular ways to experience the best of the Caribbean, but this coastal South Florida city is a worthy destination in and of itself. Port Everglades is the main cruise port near Fort Lauderdale, but just a few miles away you’ll find beautiful white-sand beaches, a lively food and shopping scene, and cerulean blue waterways dotted with impressive yachts and sailboats. Want to discover the best of Fort Lauderdale like a local? Go for an early-morning stroll along the Fort Lauderdale Beach promenade and watch the sun rise over the water. Then grab breakfast beachside at one of the many open-air cafes that line the waterfront. If you’re looking for a wilder way to spend the day, set out on an eco-kayak tour through mangrove forests, calm bays, and emerald-green inlets — Fort Lauderdale is home to more than 300 miles of waterways, which has earned it the nickname, “Venice of America.”

Your ship departs promptly at 4:00 pm, so plan to arrive at least 2-3 hours early to account for checking in and boarding protocols. During this time, many of the ship's amenities are open and operating, so feel free to start your vacation early.

Grand Bahama Island captures an authentic portrait of Bahamian life. Unwind on sand that shimmers like pearls, fronting waters in every hue of blue. Hike Rand Nature Center’s forest-lined trails. Discover waterfalls at the Garden of the Groves. Dive deep into underwater worlds offshore. Or gamble, golf and even join in a wildly festive junkanoo parade in Freeport and Lucaya.

Key West is the very definition of laid-back living. Closer to Havana than to Miami, this colorful island at the end of the Florida peninsula marches to the beat of its own steel drum. Pedal past charming pastel-colored porches, paddleboard through thick mangroves, or join a sunset block party in Mallory Square. And if the locals don’t charm you, the key lime pie will.

Before leaving South Florida, be sure to visit the Florida Everglades for a thrilling afternoon gliding in a high-speed airboat across this expansive river of grass. Keep your eyes peeled for herons, turtles, and the American alligator— all of which are native to the wetlands.

The cruise might have ended, but there are still some great activities to enjoy in the area. If you flew into this port, be mindful of your departure flight time and plan accordingly.