Blog

If you love life on the road and life at sea, Fort Lauderdale is the perfect place to blend the two. Known as both the “Venice of America” and the gateway to the Caribbean, it’s a hub for RVers and cruisers alike. Whether you’re road-tripping to Port Everglades to set sail, dreaming up a hybrid vacation, or just curious about how to mix an RV adventure with a cruise, this guide is here to help.

We’ll cover everything from planning tips to local attractions—plus, we’ll show you the perfect place to call home while you explore it all.

 

Fort Lauderdale: The Best of Both Worlds

There aren’t many places where you can hop off your RV and straight onto a cruise ship—but in Fort Lauderdale, it’s easy. 

 

Fort Lauderdale is home to Port Everglades, which hosts major cruise lines like Royal Caribbean, Carnival, Disney Cruise Line, Holland America, Princess, and more. Cruises departing Fort Lauderdale take passengers to coastal destinations in South America, Central America, Mexico, Caribbean islands, and beyond. 

 

It also happens to be a haven for RVers with some of Florida’s best RV parks and RV resorts. 

 

The city’s sunny weather, miles of beaches, and endless activities make it a natural stop for travelers looking to extend their adventure before or after their cruise. And if you’re looking for a spot that feels close to it all, Yacht Haven Park & Marina puts you right on the water, with everything you need within reach.

 

Planning Your Road Trip and Cruise

Committed to adding a cruise to your RV roadtrip? Fort Lauderdale makes it simple, but a little planning goes a long way. 

Here are a few things to consider as you book your cruise and RV stay.

 

1. Decide when to cruise and when to drive.

Some RVers like to start with the cruise, then unwind with a slower-paced road trip afterward. Others prefer to explore by RV beforehand and end their vacation at sea. Or maybe you’ll mix it up with shorter drives on both ends! 

 

Whatever you decide, be sure to give yourself a little wiggle room between your travel days and your embarkation date. Traffic, weather delays, or unexpected hiccups on the road can happen, and having a buffer day can help you start your cruise stress-free.

 

2. Choose where to park or store your RV while you cruise. 

You’ll need a safe spot for your RV while you’re at sea. Some travelers choose parking lots near the port, but many prefer resorts where they can leave their RV parked on-site. 

 

RV parking isn’t always easy and staying at a resort takes out the extra hassle of finding a suitable spot— plus, it’s the safest option. You can rest easy on your cruise knowing that your RV is safely nestled around other RVers enjoying the park. 

 

3. Book your campground early.

Florida’s most popular RV spots—especially in the Fort Lauderdale area—can fill up months in advance, particularly during peak season. 

 

To avoid missing out, it’s best to make your reservations as soon as you know your plan. This is especially true if you’re planning to extend your trip before the cruise and want to visit those highly sought-after destinations along the way.

 

4. Think about how you’ll get to Port Everglades.

The cruise port is just a short drive from many RV resorts, so finding transportation options is an  easy but necessary task. 

 

On embarkation day, you’ll want to arrange a ride to the port that’s reliable and easy. Many travelers use rideshare services or taxis for a hassle-free drop-off. Some resorts may also be able to help you coordinate transportation, so be sure to ask about the best options when booking your stay.

 

Tips for Leaving Your RV While You Cruise

Staying somewhere you trust makes the process much smoother, but there are still a few things you’ll want to do to keep your rig secure, clean, and ready for your return.

• Empty your fridge and pantry: If you’ll be gone for several days, clear out any perishable items to avoid coming back to spoiled food or unwanted smells.
• Shut off unnecessary systems: Turn off propane, water pumps, and any non-essential electrical appliances before you leave. This can help conserve energy and reduce the risk of problems while you’re away.
• Close up your RV: Make sure all windows, vents, and awnings are closed and locked. Doing a quick walk-around before you leave can help you catch anything you missed.
• Let the resort know your cruise dates: It’s a good idea to inform the front office or management when you’ll be away and when you plan to return, just in case they need to reach you.

By taking a few simple steps before you board your cruise, you’ll have one less thing to worry about—and your RV will be ready and waiting for the next leg of your adventure.

 

Keep the Fun Going on Land

Your cruise vacation will undoubtedly be filled with fun excursions and new adventures. But the fun won’t stop when you get back to land.

 

While there’s much more to do than what this short section can cover, here’s a brief look at how you can make the most of your time in Fort Lauderdale.

• Spend a day at the beach: Fort Lauderdale beaches offer soft sand, clear water, and a lively boardwalk with shops and restaurants. It’s the perfect day to adjust to life back on shore.
• Explore Las Olas Boulevard: Stroll this popular street lined with boutiques, art galleries, and great spots to grab a bite or a drink.
• Take a water taxi tour: Hop aboard and cruise the city’s famous canals, with fun stops along the way at waterfront bars, shops, and attractions.
• See wildlife at one of Broward County’s many parks: Go for a hike, rent a kayak, or simply enjoy the natural beauty of parks right in the city.
• Enjoy a boat day: Charter a boat or rent a pontoon to explore the Intracoastal Waterway and nearby sandbars.
• Experience Fort Lauderdale’s dining and nightlife: From fresh-caught seafood and waterfront restaurants to rooftop bars and live music venues, there’s something for every taste once the sun goes down.

Fort Lauderdale offers plenty of ways to keep the energy (or relaxation) going before or after your cruise. With beautiful weather, great food, and endless things to do, it’s the kind of place you’ll want to stick around and explore.

 

RV and Cruise with Yacht Haven Park & Marina

No matter how you plan your trip, Yacht Haven Park & Marina makes the perfect home base for your Fort Lauderdale adventure. With a prime waterfront location, you’ll be just minutes from Port Everglades, the city’s top beaches, and all the attractions that make South Florida such a popular destination.

Whether you’re relaxing before your cruise, winding down afterward, or staying for a while to explore the area, Yacht Haven offers everything you need for a comfortable stay. Enjoy spacious RV sites with full hookups, beautiful views, and easy access to the water. The secure resort offers peace of mind while you’re away—and plenty of ways to unwind when you’re back, from the resort-style pool to the tiki hut lounge area.

Combining an RV trip with a cruise is one of the best ways to experience Florida’s coast, and there’s no better spot to launch your journey than Yacht Haven Park & Marina.