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Vacation Inn motel - FT Lauderdale Airport and Cruise port
Located just minutes from the Port Everglades cruise terminals, this budget-friendly motel offers an unbeatable location for travelers looking for a quick overnight stay before setting sail. It provides basic, no-frills accommodations with easy access to both the seaport and the airport.
Vacation Inn motel - FT Lauderdale Airport and Cruise port: is it a good base for Port Everglades?
Compiled by the RoomNetic team with AI assistance, from guest reviews and public sources · Updated October 2026For travelers looking for a convenient place to rest their heads before or after a cruise, the Vacation Inn Motel - FT Lauderdale Airport and Cruise Port offers one of the closest lodging options available. Situated on Southeast 6th Avenue (US-1), this property is a classic, no-frills roadside motel primarily catering to budget-conscious cruisers and transit passengers.
Location & Proximity to Port Everglades
- Distance to the Port: This motel is exceptionally close to Port Everglades, located just about 1 to 1.5 miles from the main entrance and various cruise terminals.
- Transit Time: A taxi or rideshare (Uber/Lyft) to your cruise ship will take less than 5 to 10 minutes, making embarkation morning completely stress-free.
- Airport Access: It is also situated right on the northern edge of the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL), meaning you can go from your flight to your room, and then to your cruise ship, with minimal transit time and expense.
Accommodations & Amenities
- The Rooms: Expect basic, older-style motel accommodations. Rooms generally feature standard amenities such as air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, a microwave, and a mini-fridge.
- Property Features: The motel offers an outdoor pool area for guests looking to catch some Florida sun before their trip, along with free Wi-Fi and free on-site parking during your stay.
- Atmosphere: Because it is located on a busy highway between a major airport and a major seaport, you should expect some ambient traffic and airplane noise.
Dining & Nearby Conveniences
While the motel itself does not have an on-site restaurant, its location on US-1 puts you within walking distance or a very short drive of several fast-food spots, casual diners, and gas stations. If you need to pick up last-minute cruise essentials (like sunscreen, toiletries, or wine), there are shopping plazas located just a couple of miles north on 17th Street.
The Verdict
Pros:
- Unbeatable proximity to both Port Everglades and FLL Airport.
- Very affordable compared to the larger resort hotels on 17th Street or the beach.
- Easy and cheap rideshare transfers to the cruise terminals.
Cons:
- Dated decor and very basic amenities.
- Not a "vacation resort" vibe—strictly a utilitarian transit motel.
Summary: If you are arriving late the night before your cruise and simply need a cheap, convenient place to sleep and shower before heading to the ship the next morning, the Vacation Inn Motel gets the job done thanks to its prime location. However, if you are looking to spend a few days relaxing in Fort Lauderdale with upscale amenities before your voyage, you may want to look at hotels slightly further north.
Facilities, transport and opening times can change. Please confirm the details on Booking.com before you book.