With its deep harbor, Port Everglades is a point of departure for some of the largest and newest cruise ships that sail the blue waters of the Caribbean. The name "Port Everglades" is somewhat misleading, however, as the man-made harbor is not part of the wetland ecosystem known as the Florida Everglades. Instead, Port Everglades is in the greater Fort Lauderdale area, just 30 minutes north of Miami International Airport and five minutes away from the Fort Lauderdale airport.

If you have some time to spend there before you sail, you’ll see that Fort Lauderdale is much more than the world’s third-busiest cruise port. The city is often called the "Venice of America" because of its vast system of natural and man-made waterways.

Fort Lauderdale has more than 20 miles of beautiful, sandy beaches along the Atlantic shore. John U. Lloyd Beach State Recreation Area is right across from the port. The flat, sandy beach is a great place to relax, enjoy a picnic and get a head start on your vacation tan. The park includes Whiskey Creek, once used for smuggling liquor during the prohibition era, but now a sanctuary for the endangered West Indian manatee.

If you forgot to bring any essentials from home, you can find what you need at the Sawgrass Mills Mall. The mall has more than a mile of shops, food courts and restaurants. For some upscale boutique and art gallery browsing, visit Las Olas Boulevard, known as the Rodeo Drive of Fort Lauderdale.

If you’re traveling with children, consider visiting the Museum of Discovery and Science. The museum has many interactive exhibits, a nature trail, an IMAX theater and a Discovery Center play and learning area specially designed for children under seven years of age. Or, visit the Bonnet House and Gardens, a gorgeous seaside retreat that is open for tours.

For more ideas about things to do and see when you’re in Port Everglades and Fort Lauderdale, call Marilyn at 1-800-720-7245.