Which Return Flight Would You BooK?

[Jobro2]

We'll be on the 6/17 Western Caribbean Princess leaving out of FLL...we have the choice of 2 returning flights..11:55 and 2:05. We'd really like to take the earlier one, but was worried of it would be difficult to make this time. We've never cruised out of FLL, and are not familiar with their security/check in times..which would you suggest???

[Coral]

If it was me, I would go with the 11:55 flight. I usually make 11:30 flights and have always had enough time to make it and be bored at the airport. There are always exceptions, but I think you are safe with the 11:55 flight.

[Hobson's Choice]

On most days you would have no problems making the 11:55 flight. The airport is only about 10 minutes from the port by taxi. All you have to do is show your itinerary to the people at Guest Services and they will put you in the early disembarkation groups. We have been off the ship and cooling our heels at the airport before 10 AM when we have gone through FLL.

[mii]

I think it also depends on what day June 17 is. If it is on a Sunday that can be a zoo and alot of ships are in port for disembarkation. Ours was on a Sunday and you cannot believe the zoo at the airport going through security. Our plane did leave on time at 12:30 p.m. but it was extrememly close. You would probably make it at 11:55 during the week but maybe rethink if it is on a weekend. Good luck.

 

Marilyn

[yancycruiser]

We have cruised and flown out of FFL and I agree with the other posters. You will have no problem with the 11:55 flight. Have a great cruise.

[Coral]

I just looked at the cruise ship schedule for the 24th - there are only 2 ships in port that day (Caribbean and Enchantment of the Seas). I think with it being summer, there are fewer ships in port....... I think you will be fine.

 

Mii's advice is definitely good if there are many ships in port. 2 is pretty low.

[dolfinmusic]

If you can be one of the first off the ship then go for it - if not then I would go with the later flight. Just got off the CB yesterday and was able to get off about 10am but getting to your luggage and then waiting in the customs line was forever. We were lucky enough to share a porter with someone else and made it to the airport by 11am since we had prearranged transportation to the pier and they were right there waiting for us!

[omdiane]

How much time prior to your flight are you supposed to be at the airport?

[Pam in CA]

You should be fine with an 11:55AM flight. Yes, there is always a chance of a delayed return to Ft. Lauderdale by the ship or delays in disembarkation, but those would be rare occasions and worth taking the risk.

[zebra36]

As others have said you will most likely have no problem but if you are of a temperment that you will be worried about the earlier fligh the entire cruise go with the later flight.

[CruiseFever]

I too. "if it was me", would take the 11:55.

 

Be sure to let them know you've got that flight so you can get early off tags for your luggage and have priority disembarkation.

[LARGIN]

The 11:55 flight will be your best bet..

[cruisetmc]

We made an 11:15 last November.

 

Make sure you get an early departure from the pursers desk. When we got to security the line was quite long, they started pulling the earlier flights out of the line so we were at the gate at 10:30.

[cherylandtk]

OK, count me as the one contrary Nervous Nellie.:p (2 hours vs. $ of non-refundable vs. $$$full fare same day ticket, Hmmmm) If it were me, I would take the later flight. I never book before noon, having been delayed on 2 out of 6 disembarkations, but neither were Princess. I hate spending the whole morning wondering if we are going to make it, or if there will be lines, or if there is enough time left.

 

That said, if you want the early flight, there is a better than good chance you will make it. Just be sure you know what your options are should you miss it and fully evaluate how much it might cost you. Most airlines with non-refundable tickets require that you cancel before the scheduled departure in order to transfer the ticket to a later flight, if at all. Be sure you understand the fine print and the airline policy.