Leaving Ft. Lauderdale

[dalwhitt]

I probably already know the answer to this but ...

We're sailing on Jewel of the Seas on January 2, returning to Ft. Lauderdale on Jan. 9. My problem is that I got a pretty good airfare price from Hartford to FLL but the return flights are either at 11:30 a.m. or 7:30 p.m. If I take another flight, say around 1 p.m. or 2:15 p.m., it will cost me another $160 per person, or $320 total. Having never sailed out of FLL before, I need to know what the odds are of me making the flight on time. How far is the airport from the pier? If I can make it I would rather do it. I don't want to wait around Ft. Lauderdale or the airport all day. Beside, I will not have seen my grandson for 8 whole days! What's a grandad to do?

[DougR.]

I just got back from the Enchantment and Ft. Lauderdale. The debarking categories began with flights before 11am and before 11:30am so it is feasible. We had a similar choice and errred on the side of caution, now that we know we would opt for the early flight. The airport is about a 10 minute drive from the port.

[Mike M]

dalwhitt:

If it was ME, I would do the 11:30 flight. FLL airport is a 10 minute cab ride from the pier and cabs are plentiful and easy to get. Make sure you fill out your debarkation form and let them know you have an early flight. A stop by the Customer Service desk wouldn't hurt.

Please note that if there is a problem with immigration or other issue then there could be a problem. Otherwise an 11:30 flight can be done.

Take care,
Mike

[Donna]

We will also be doing the same cruise Jan 29th and I have an 11:25 flight out, I think we will be fine. The airport is right next to the pier, so its a short ride once you are off the ship.

Please let us know ow it works for you, OK?

[sal7202]

I'd say go for the early flight. We didn't, and wound up sitting around FLL all day waiting for the 7:00 flight into ISP. It was a most unpleasant day.