Expert: Linda - 5/7/2009

Question
Have a group of 9 adults and one baby scheduled to cruise out of Miami on May 18th. We all live in the Brandon Florida area and are looking for round trip transportation by bus, plane or last choice, our own vehicles. What would you suggest?

Answer
Hi Linda,

Here are some options for you to check.  You can get a train from Tampa to Miami, then a shuttle from Miami to the port, not far.

Fly Southwest Airlines from Tampa to Ft Laud, then get a shuttle at the airport to the port in Miami.

You could also call the car rental places for a 9 passenger van, rent the van in Tampa, have the driver drop off the passenters at the port, then drop the car off at the Miami airport (15 min) and get a shuttle to the port and meet up with the rest of the group.  If more than one wants to go with the driver, then get the cab at the airport and split the cost.  On your way home, again, shuttle to airport, rent the van and then go pick up the group and drive back home to Tampa.

Greyhound bus also goes Tampa to Miami, but I least recommend this as the area around the port, not in the port is a bit unsavory.

Parking is $15 per day per vehicle, so I think any of the above may be cheaper and less hassle then driving individual vehicles.

I also know that some of the chaueffers for hire offer mini buses, for trips, but don't know what they would charge.

I hope the above helps and you have a wonderful cruise!

Linda