Terminal A Parking at Port Miami: Save $14 and Know What to Expect!
If you're cruising with Royal Caribbean from Terminal A in PortMiami, parking is one of those details you’ll want to sort out ahead of time - or maybe not... Did you know that planning poorly could cost you an extra $14? It’s true! Here’s everything you need to know about Terminal A parking—from saving money to being prepared for your cruise day.
Parking Rates at Terminal A
Let’s start with the basics. Parking at the Terminal A Garage is now an incredible $35 per day (WOWZAA!) for standard vehicles, with a height restriction of 7’2”. Oversized vehicles, like vans and RVs, need to park in Lot #2 near Cruise Terminal E, where additional fees apply. For day visitors, short-term parking is available for $10 for up to 6 hours.
Coupon Code for Port Miami Terminal A
I’ve looked high and low for coupon codes for Terminal A parking, and they just don’t seem to exist. While it’s always worth double-checking trusted third-party sites and Royal Caribbean’s official website, you’re unlikely to find any discounts. However, you can still save money by avoiding the $14 “service fee” for pre-booking online. Simply pay at the port when you finish your trip, and keep that extra cash for something more enjoyable—like a cocktail on the ship!
Service Fee: What You Need to Know
Booking your parking spot online might sound like a convenient option, especially during busy cruise seasons, but beware—it comes with a $14 “service fee.” That’s right, just for reserving your spot ahead of time, you’re shelling out an extra $14. In many cases, you can simply arrive, grab your parking ticket, park, and then pay when you leave the port, avoiding this sneaky surcharge.
Is Prebooking Worth It?
If you’re cruising during peak times, like the holidays or spring break, pre-booking might provide peace of mind but it seems kind of useless. However, for most cruisers, arriving early and paying on-site after you finish your cruise is a hassle-free way to park and save a little money.
Accessibility and Amenities
Terminal A’s parking facilities are well-equipped with security patrols and disabled permit parking spaces. If you’re traveling with a disabled veteran license plate or a vehicle with specialized equipment, you may even qualify for free parking—be sure to inquire about this when you arrive.
Tips for a Smooth Parking Experience
Drop Off First: Save time and effort by dropping off passengers and luggage at the terminal before parking.
Have Cash or Card Ready: Accepted payment methods include cash, major credit cards, and traveler’s checks (debit cards are not accepted).
Arrive Early: Cruise day can get hectic, so aim to arrive at least 90 minutes before your boarding time to find parking and get settled.
Why You Should Avoid the $14 Fee
If you’re like most cruisers, you’d rather spend $14 on a piña colada on the ship than on an unnecessary fee. By planning ahead and deciding to pay on-site, you’ll save yourself the convenience fee and keep more money in your pocket for fun aboard.
Getting to PortMiami: Hassles and Traffic
Driving to Port Miami can be an adventure in itself. The port is located just off the MacArthur Causeway, and depending on the time of day, traffic can be heavy and unpredictable.
Construction projects and a high volume of travelers can add to the challenge, so it’s wise to plan extra time for your journey. Our recent journey from Boca Raton, FL was supposed to take 45 mins and ended up taking over 2 hours because of an accident at the I95 and I395 junction.
To make your trip smoother, consider using GPS or checking real-time traffic updates before you leave. Detailed driving directions are available on Royal Caribbean’s FAQ page, which can help you navigate directly to Terminal A without unnecessary detours.
Additionally, PortMiami’s official site provides helpful information about parking and terminal access, so be sure to review their parking information page for the latest updates.
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Final Thoughts
Parking at Terminal A doesn’t have to be complicated or any more costly than it already is. By knowing the rates, understanding the hidden fees, and preparing for cruise day, you can save money and enjoy a smooth start to your vacation. Avoid the $14 fee and enjoy the peace of mind of knowing exactly what to expect when you park at PortMiami!
It’s free with a Florida disabled veteran tag. I have a Kentucky disabled veteran tag and we had to pay $490 after our two week cruise. It was an unpleasant surprise and a bush league move. I was in the same military. They need to change that policy.