Day One, Done Right: Kicking Off 2026 from Miami to the Caribbean

A step-by-step cruise itinerary from Miami and Fort Lauderdale to Bimini, Cozumel and Grand Cayman onboard Celebrity Xcel

31 December 2025 by

Thomas Dubber

A deliberate start to 2026

This trip hasn’t happened yet — but the intention behind it is clear.

Tomorrow is New Year’s Day. Day one of 2026. And rather than easing into the year gently, we’re starting exactly how we mean to go on: travelling with purpose, cutting out unnecessary friction, and choosing an itinerary that flows from the very first flight.

From Miami and Fort Lauderdale to Bimini, Cozumel and Grand Cayman, this is a Caribbean cruise designed to feel seamless, considered and quietly exciting — without overcomplicating the journey.

Day 1: London to Miami — arriving properly

We fly from London to Miami with British Airways on the A380, still one of the most comfortable ways to cross the Atlantic. When you’re travelling long-haul before a cruise, how you arrive matters more than people admit.

Rather than heading straight into the city, we’re staying at Kompose Hotel Miami Airport. It’s a deliberately practical choice — modern, efficient and ideal for a fly-in, fly-out stopover. Arriving a day early gives us time to reset, shake off jet lag and start the trip rested, not rushed.

Day 2: Miami to Fort Lauderdale — the smarter transfer

Instead of booking a cruise transfer or relying on Uber, we’re taking Tri-Rail from Miami Airport to Fort Lauderdale.

Tri-Rail is one of South Florida’s most underrated options for cruise passengers. Trains are frequent, luggage-friendly and significantly cheaper than taxis or private transfers — especially for couples. It’s straightforward, reliable and removes a surprising amount of stress from the journey north.

Once in Fort Lauderdale, we’ll check into the brand-new Omni Fort Lauderdale.

Why Omni Fort Lauderdale works so well before a cruise

If you’re sailing from Port Everglades, this hotel is hard to beat:

It’s the closest hotel to the cruise port
Guests sailing with Princess Cruises or Disney Cruise Line can walk directly to the terminal
Even if you’re sailing with another line, you’re right on the port’s doorstep
Many rooms offer clear views of the port and ships, not distant water glimpses

The hotel is also a stop on the Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi, which we’ll use to explore the city for the rest of the day.

Exploring Fort Lauderdale by Water Taxi

The Water Taxi is one of the most enjoyable ways to get around Fort Lauderdale. It connects beaches, restaurants and neighbourhoods via a hop-on, hop-off route — far more relaxing than sitting in traffic.

Day 3: Fort Lauderdale, at the right pace

Our final day on land is all about slowing things down before embarkation.

We’ll start with breakfast at Tinta, the breakfast spot from the team behind Lona Cocina & Tequileria — waterfront tables, good coffee and a menu that works whether you want something light or indulgent.

From there, it’s time for Fort Lauderdale Beach. Wide, walkable and calmer than Miami Beach, it’s ideal for a pre-cruise reset.

Lunch and drinks are planned at The Shorely at Marina Village — relaxed coastal food, marina views and exactly the right energy for a long afternoon.

Later, we’ll head back to the beach to watch the ships sail out. The lineup is expected to include Celebrity Ascent, Celebrity Reflection, Radiance of the Seas, Liberty of the Seas and Disney Dream. Watching ship after ship head out to sea never gets old — especially when you know you’ll be joining them the next morning.

We’ll round out the day at Dania Pointe for shopping, dinner and a low-key final night ashore.

Day 4: Embarkation day — Celebrity Xcel

Then it’s time.

We board Celebrity Xcel for a 7-night sailing from Fort Lauderdale to Bimini, Cozumel and Grand Cayman.

Celebrity Xcel represents the next evolution of the Edge Series, with next-generation spaces, new venues like The Bazaar, and refined favourites — all wrapped in that signature Celebrity design that blurs the line between ship and destination.

Stepping onboard on the first day of the year feels intentional. Less routine. More like a statement.

What we’ve got planned in port

Bimini: freedom on four wheels

In Bimini, we’re hiring a golf buggy and exploring the island independently. It’s the easiest way to see beyond the immediate port area, reach quieter beaches and move at your own pace.

Cozumel: quad bikes & colour

Cozumel will be all about movement and energy. We’re planning to hire a quad bike / ATV and head out to explore — a fun, flexible way to experience the island beyond the usual cruise stops.

Grand Cayman: Seven Mile Beach

Grand Cayman is reserved for pure downtime. We’ll spend the day on Seven Mile Beach, swimming in crystal-clear water and stopping for drinks at Tillie’s, alongside a few other bars dotted along the beach.

Sea days, Celebrity-style

Sea days onboard Celebrity Xcel are just as important as the ports.

We’re especially looking forward to The Poolest Day Ever, Celebrity’s elevated poolside experience that turns a sea day into an event rather than filler. Add in Shine the Night evenings and brunch at Bora, and these are the moments that often end up defining a sailing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it worth flying to Miami the day before a cruise?

Yes. Flying in the day before reduces stress, protects against delays and allows you to start your cruise rested rather than rushed.

Is Tri-Rail easy with luggage?

Yes. Trains have space for suitcases and are far easier than many people expect. It’s a reliable, low-cost alternative to taxis, Ubers or cruise transfers.