Hi, 2nd time cruisers, first was only 3-day Carnival out of Long Beach. We are flying into Miami around midnight on the day before our cruise. Looking for best solution to A. sleep. B. get to the Port in Ft. Lauderdale on Oct 21. Thinking of a free shuttle to a hotel close to Miami Airport for A. Then, head back to the airport in the morning for a shuttle or transfer to Ft. Lauderdale. for B. We are leaving on the Carribbian Princess. When can we board?
2nd part. Our flight leaves Miami at 5:00 pm on the day we get into port. When do we have to be off the ship? Does it matter if we use the Princess transfers or could we stay on longer with a private shuttle?

Thanks for the help. Glad I stumbled on this site.

You will be able to begin embarkation at 11:30, but I'd recommend around 2 because the lines will be shorter. Here is a website for a shuttle service in Miami, www.miami-shuttle.com. They begin disembarkation around 8:00 am, you're normally off by 10:00 am so they can begin boarding the next cruise. It doesn't matter if you use Princess shuttle, they need to have everyone ashore so they can turn the ship around. You will be given colored tags for your luggage and will be called for disembarkation by the colors. Since you're arriving in Miami so late, I think you would be best to get a hotel near the airport as it's a good 45 minute drive up to Lauderdale. Hope this helps. We're leaving on the Sun Princess the same day. Enjoy your cruise!!