Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida

Las Olas Boulevard: Spend an afternoon strolling along the 17 blocks of this palm tree-flanked thoroughfare, where you can eat at alfresco cafes, pop into galleries, and pick up a few accessories for your sail.

Bonnet House Museum & Gardens: See Fort Lauderdale the way it was a century ago, long before high-rises and highways, at this historic home with 35 acres of gardens.

Beaches: While sand and sun are undoubtedly part of your cruising itinerary, there are 23 miles of beachfront in the Fort Lauderdale area for exploring — and relaxing.

The Everglades: There's no U.S. national park quite like the Everglades, whose 1.5 million acres of subtropical jungles, swamps, and saw-grass prairies are home to rare and endangered species.

Night Owls: Whether you're into artisanal cocktails, wine bars, or salsa spots, there's plenty of fun to be had after dark — and into the early morning.

Families: Entertain kids of all ages at the Young at Art children's museum, Butterfly World, Flamingo Gardens, or on a BlueFoot Pirate Adventure.

Don’t Cut It Too Close: Yes, the airport is within easy reach of your ship, but Port Everglades is one of the busiest cruise ports in the world. Give yourself plenty of time to make the transfer.

Rent a Car: Although Fort Lauderdale does have some public transportation, you’ll want your own set of wheels if you’re staying more than a day or two.