A Disney cruise from Fort Lauderdale is a newer option that has quickly become one of Disney's busiest departure points. Port Everglades is now Disney Cruise Line's second year-round Florida homeport after Port Canaveral, and for 2026–27 it is home to two ships: the brand-new Disney Destiny and the Disney Dream.
This guide explains which ship fits your trip, where these sailings go, and how booking through a concierge adds free onboard credit at no cost to you.
Two Ships, Two Different Trips
Having two ships at one port means real choice:
Disney Destiny
The Destiny is a Wish-class ship spending its inaugural season at Fort Lauderdale, sailing short 4- and 5-night cruises to the Bahamas and the Caribbean, with some special 7-night sailings announced for summer 2026. As the newest ship at the port, it has the latest Wish-class features and themed spaces. If you want the most modern Disney ship, this is it. Compare it with its sister in our Destiny vs. Treasure guide.
Disney Dream
The Dream runs a year-round program of short 3-, 4-, and 5-night cruises to the Caribbean and Bahamas from Port Everglades. It is a beautifully maintained classic with the signature AquaDuck water coaster, and it is often a bit more affordable than the newest ships — a great pick for a first cruise or a quick getaway.
Exact ship assignments and dates shift over time, so confirm the current schedule before planning. You can compare live options on our sailings page.
Where You'll Go
Most Fort Lauderdale sailings are short Bahamas and Caribbean trips, which typically include:
- Disney's private islands. Many Bahamas itineraries visit Castaway Cay or Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point — the highlight of the trip for most families.
- Nassau, Bahamas. See our Nassau port guide.
- Caribbean stops. Longer sailings add ports like Grand Cayman or Cozumel.
Why Fort Lauderdale Is Easy to Reach
Port Everglades sits right next to Fort Lauderdale–Hollywood International Airport (FLL) — one of the shortest airport-to-terminal transfers of any U.S. cruise port, often under 10 minutes. Miami International is about 45 minutes away and adds more flight options. Our flight finder can help you compare fares into both.
The terminal itself is Disney's newest, with the theming and streamlined embarkation you would expect. For a smooth first morning, our embarkation-day walkthrough applies to Fort Lauderdale too.
Choosing Your Sailing
- Newest ship or best value? The Destiny for cutting-edge Wish-class features; the Dream for a proven classic at a friendlier price.
- Private island. If Castaway Cay or Lookout Cay matters to your family, check that it is on the itinerary before booking.
- Length. A 3- or 4-night is a perfect first cruise; a 5- or 7-night gives you more beach days.
How to Add Free Onboard Credit
If you want help planning your Fort Lauderdale sailing, our concierge team can walk you through it at no cost to you — Disney pays the commission, not you — and free onboard credit may be available. Estimate yours with our onboard credit calculator. Onboard credit is an estimate, not a guarantee, and is confirmed when you book.
Thinking about sailing from Fort Lauderdale? Get a free, no-obligation quote and we'll help you choose between the Destiny and the Dream, compare dates, and lock in your onboard credit.
