First timer questions

[kaymac22]

We are booking our first cruise - myself, hubby, and 2 teenage daughters. We would like to stay at the Marriott on the Beach in Fort Lauderdale, for 3 days, and then sail out of Miami port. Is the best and cheapest option to rent a car, and then leave the car in Miami - do they shuttle you to the port....? or would we leave the car at the port while we cruise.? Then, when we return from the cruise, how to get back up to the lauderdale area for a return flight home the next day.....???? Can't wait!:)

[paulred]

With four people, car rental is the way to go. Most main line rental agencies have shuttles to and from the ports. Rent you car for the precruise. Then drop your bags off at the port, return the car, and shuttle back to the port. Do the reverese when you get back.

 

cheers

 

Paul

[kaymac22]

Thanks Paul. So, you "check" your luggage at the port, like you would at the airport.....? and then you can leave and come back....?

[cb at sea]

Yes, you can do it that way... drop your bags, take the car back, and have the rental folks return you to the ship. Or, take a cab with your luggage and the rest of your family...it doesn't really matter. As long as you check-in to the ship 90 mins. prior to departure, you're good to go. But remember, boarding day counts as day 1---you've paid alot per day...use that ship as early as you can!