Carnival Cruises in Port Miami: your ultimate guide

Ahoy, future cruisers! If you're planning to set sail with Carnival Cruises from Port Miami, you're in for a treat. As a Miami local and cruise industry expert, I've gathered all the essential information to help you navigate your Carnival adventure with ease and excitement.

Sailing in 2025

• Call 800-764-7419 to speak with Carnival support in Miami, FL
• Carnival Terminals at Port Miami: D
• Ships sailing from Miami: Celebration, Conquest, Horizon, Magic, Sunrise
• See our cruising advice for embarking and disembarking the ship

Carnival shore excursions you can do with The Miami Tour Company before or after sailing

Make the most of your time in Miami with a tour designed for cruise passengers:

• Miami to the Max! – Visit South Beach, Wynwood Walls, and Little Havana in a 4-hour guided tour.
• Everglades Adventure – Airboat ride, wildlife show, and park entry included.
• Miami Boat Tour – Cruise Biscayne Bay and admire celebrity mansions on Star Island.
• Key West Day Tour – A full-day adventure to the southernmost point in the continental U.S.

☑ Extra perk just for Carnival passengers

👉 Book a tour listed on our website and get 10% off just for being a Carnival passenger. Use discount code: Save2025. It’s our way of saying welcome to Miami. 

Weird quirks & stories

Cruise life isn't without its quirks:

• The "Poop Cruise" Incident: In 2013, the Carnival Triumph experienced a power failure, leading to unsanitary conditions and food shortages. The incident became infamous and was later featured in a Netflix documentary.

Things you might want to know before you sail

• Parking costs $35 per day: Port Miami garages fill quickly, so consider using a shuttle or rideshare.
• Drink packages: Good if you plan on having more than 3 cocktails a day, otherwise à la carte is cheaper.
• Wi-Fi: Carnival uses SpaceX Starlink satellite internet to provide connectivity on its ships
• Service charge: Carnival automatically adds daily gratuities to your bill (currently around $16 per person per day).

Onboard highlights you shouldn't miss

Carnival ships are packed with fun and entertainment:

• BOLT Roller Coaster: Experience the thrill of the first-ever roller coaster at sea aboard the Carnival Celebration.
• Live Entertainment: Enjoy Broadway-style shows, comedy acts, and live music performances.
• Water Parks: Splash around in the onboard water parks, featuring slides and splash zones for all ages.

🚢 Popular Carnival cruises out of Miami

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FAQ about Carnival

Q: What's Carnival's reputatⁱon?
A: Carnival is known as the “fun ship” line — affordable, lively, and geared toward casual cruisers who want to party, eat, and let loose without breaking the bank. It’s great for first-timers, families, and groups, but expect crowds, loud environments, and a more budget-oriented experience in terms of food and service. Sometimes called the "Walmart of the Seas", if you're okay with sacrificing some polish for price, Carnival delivers exactly what it promises — fun, fast, and sometimes a little rowdy.

Q: Are there places to eat at the Port?
A: Yes. La Carreta offers full-service dining and is known for having some of the cleanest restrooms at many terminals. You'll also find a Starbucks in Terminal A, complete with free Wi-Fi. Most terminals have Grab & Go Markets with sandwiches, salads, and other healthier options. The selection changes daily, but the caprese salad is a reliable favorite.

Q: Any advice for getting off the ship early?
A: Carry your own luggage and select the “Self Assist” or “Walk Off” option for priority disembarkation — most guests are through customs by 8:00 AM. You can also let the front desk know you have an early activity, and they’ll provide priority disembarkation.

Q: How do I arrange a private tour with drop-off at the airport?
A: It’s easy! Just give us a call at (305) 260-6855 or get a quote. We’ll pick you up at the Port, take you sightseeing, and drop you off at either Miami or Fort Lauderdale Airport in time for your flight.

More details on cruising from Miami

• What Makes Port Miami Unique