Riding the Miami Trolley to Your Cruise: What to Expect

[@johnpedro268]

I have taken this a number of times. I usually take the bus from Miami Beach to Bayside marketplace and switch to the trolley. If the wait is too long when I check the app, I take an Uber instead. The trolley is pretty good frequency every day except Sunday. I find it much less frequent in Sundays.

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

Great feedback John! Miami transit really isn't that bad! Thought everytime i try to go to south beach the buses come when they want! 🤣🤣 Had better luck with the Miami trolley tracker than the MDT buses.

[@liznichols4916]

I'm coming back to comment after debarking from the celebration on Sunday. Going from the airport to the cruise port on 1/21 was SO smooth. We took the MetroRail to Brickell station and was on the Trolley in less than 25m. It dropped us right off at Terminal F. It was amazing. Coming back in on the 28th however......😂 The marathon was going on and the Trolley, Taxis, or Ubers were not able to reach us. We had to hike from Terminal F over the bridge to the Government Station MetroRail with all our luggage. It was awful but funny now. Had I paid attention and realized the marathon was this past weekend I would have known. Any other weekend I believe it would have been no problem at all. Thank you for all the information. This video was extremely helpful and had me well prepared. ❤

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

Oh no!!! Yes, the Marathon messes EVERYTHING up! Glad you had a good experience and thank you for sharing! Love when others enjoy mass transit and saving some money.

[@cyndihanson157]

Love the setup behind you!! You do need a picture of the ocean on the wall though ❣️❣️

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

Thank you! I know. I have 15 paintings sitting on the floor right now. I am horrible at getting them hung!

[@brenttuckertravel3859]

Hey Brandon, I really like free. I saved it so I could watch it before my first cruise out of Miami in 11 months. I will go with royal blue for the line color on the map, but I do not have my glasses on. Lol. I liked the short clips of the spots where you get off and on the trolley. Thank you.

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

My pleasure Brant! I would agree with the color too!

[@phillipowensby1187]

Thanks for info! Please do video on other transportation to port.

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

Hey Philip, let me see what I can do! I actually live beside of one of the park and ride lots!

[@sparkygirl9083]

Hi, I just got your response. My scooter is in Florida and I’m in Minnesota right now, it has a bag it fold up. You should be able to probably Google it. I think I got it from Walmart. It’s more for shorter term rides

[@cruisingforone]

Looks like the closest stop to the port from the Brightline is 52 SE 1st St, Miami, FL 33130. I think Brightline has a shuttle to the port but nice to have an option.

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

Brightline has been going back and forth on their shuttle. I do not believe they currently have a shuttle and want you to book the uber through their website. If you REALLY want to take the trolley, take the metromover at Miami Central Station where Brightline is to Brickell Station to pick up the Coral Way Trolley.

[@cruisingforone]

@@TheWeekendCruiser Uber is my first choice for sure.

[@larryhammond5907]

Does this connect to Brightline? I'm from out of town so considering this as an option to get from port to fort Lauderdale airport

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

Not really... From Brightline Miami Central Station I would take an ride share to the port. Otherwise, transfer to the Metro Mover and get off at Brickell Station where it does connect.

[@susanc6367]

Very good information! Thank you

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

My pleasure Susan!

[@sparkygirl9083]

I have a standup scooter that has a bag with a shoulder strap pretty portable can I bring that on the cruise ship. I wouldn’t to use it on the cruise ship. I would use it to transport myself to the cruise ship.

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

Can you send me the link to your scooter? Would love to check it out and see if it might work for me!

[@theTimHernandez]

great info for me as i like to stay in coral gables area the night before.

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

You are in the money then!

[@IngridBethune]

How easy is it to get from Best Western in Coral Gables to Bayside MarketPlace​@@TheWeekendCruiser

[@Crunchtime7890]

We just finished a 7 day on the seascape. We flew in and out of FLL and took trains and buses back from the airport to our Vrbo and to and from the port. Total cost both directions for tow people…. $21. Would of been less but we got the all day pass when we arrived so we could look around Miami.

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

That's awesome Jim! I actually used to be a bus driver years ago and have always loved buses and transit! Miami isn't the easiest to figure out and am very impressed that you two did it!

[@Crunchtime7890]

@@TheWeekendCruiser Took three apps to figure it out but it was actually kinda fun. The live tracking was a life saver!

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

@@Crunchtime7890 I have not found the perfect app for transit in Miami yet. Google Maps and it's metrobus schedule are definitly no in sync and you have to go to the website to see the live trolly tracker! If I only took the trolly, that would be great but nothing integrates all of the systems into one easy to navigate platform!

[@leannewinkler6123]

Thank you for the video! We will be using it when we get off of our cruise (on a Saturday). How would we get to the airport using the trolley first, then getting on the metrorail.....what stops do we switch at? Are you able to help with that info? Also, what would the time frame be (estimated of course). Thanks for your great info!

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

Thank you and sorry just seeing this after you have gotten back! Hope you were able to figure it out and have a good experience!

[@lorax1968]

This was great Brandon, thank you! do more of these! Trirail, Brightline, public transportation to ports!

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

Thank you! Have a few on brightline but with them starting up service to Orlando, might be a game changer. TRI rail, i could do a video but i don't really recommend it to non-locals unless you love transit or saving a buck.

[@markeaston7353]

Thanks Brandon this is an interesting option which I hadn't considered. We will be staying at Brickell and cruising with MSC. So just to clarify, is it the one trolley that would take me from Brickell to the port or do I need to change. The map is a little blurry.

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

Just one trolley. The Coral Way Trolley will take you right there from Brickell

[@sparkygirl9083]

It’s an Evercross electric scooter for adults from Walmart. I just seen some other scooter bags you can purchase, you might want to do that instead. because the scooter I purchase wasn’t that great. I have others I use, I tried to send this one back, but they won’t let me, but I’m thinking just for a little jount to and from the cruise might be OK

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

I see it! That is reasonably priced too! Thank you for sharing!

[@sparkygirl9083]

I just edited this. I think you should buy a different one and just purchase a bag for it even though this one on the handlebars close down, just saying.

[@Ambientmopar]

🛳🛳🛳 Can see trolley crossing over water on blue route. But unfortunately don't see pickup points in Thailand to take us to Port of Miami 🛳🛳🛳

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

Hahaha I am sure it is in the expansion plan!

[@lizacastillon9760]

Can’t help but noticed your collection of ships behind you. Where did you get those?

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

The only place I have found those is on the cruise ship of the specific ship. Actually, missing one or two because they were sold out. 😳

[@denisehayes6730]

Where does luggage go? I’ve done it with Pam but we just went from Ship to BaySide for Lunch & back aboard ship. Is there a stop in front off Terminal G? Thanks Brandon 🥰

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

haha, hello!! Luggage will go beside you but most of the space is towards the back. There is a stop by Terminal G!

[@Mike-ks3yq]

Great Videos! I'm going on my first cruise and need some advice. My itinerary is PUJ-MIA on NCL. I'll be arriving at Miami Cruise Port on NCL on May 2 at 10AM, Based upon your video above you recommend for people on NCL to not take the trolley from Miami Cruise Port to Miami Airport, because of the long walk from ship to trolley stop. What transportation do you recommend for transportation for solo passengers, like me, from Miami Cruise Port to Miami Airport? Uber? My flight departs Miami at 2pm. Any details are appreciated.

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

100% a ride share - Uber/Lyft/In-Line are all great options! yeah, I don't recommend the trolley unless you like to walk.

[@felicitaagosto716]

Great information! I find myself still confused lol I'll be staying the the Gabriel Hilton on Biscayne Blvd. Does the Carol Way pass that area. I just can't figure it out. Thank you for amy extra assistance

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

haha my pleasure and kudos for you for even exploring transit options! From the Gabriel, take the 11th street metro mover (free) to the Brickell stop. This will drop you off directly where the Coral Way trolley (also free) will pick you up. There are other ways to make this happen but this is the most straight forward. As an alternative, a Uber X or Lyft will cost you around $10 an have you at the ship in under 10 minutes. The metro mover and trolly could take significantly longer.

[@felicitaagosto716]

@TheWeekendCruiser OMG Thank you! I think I was overthinking it! Both options work for me. Idk why but I thought a UBER ride would have been closer to $28-$30 but $10 (more or less of course) seems do-able or if we want the more scenic route we'll go your very straightforward route. Lol Thank you I truly appreciate it =)

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

@@felicitaagosto716 Yeah, do the uber ;-)

[@BardWannabe]

Thanks for this video. I don’t know why but when coming from the airport on the metrorail, I can never find the Coral Way stop at Brickell. I eventually give up and just walk across the bridge to the port. (Which is a pretty good workout)

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

Do you remember the name of the station you come in on with metrorail? If you're walking, that doesn't sound like Brickell!

[@BardWannabe]

@@TheWeekendCruiser In some previous journeys I’ve deliberately gotten off at Government Center and walked, but last time I’m sure I went all the way down to Brickell because some nice guy was giving advice to tourists that that is where we needed to go to catch the trolley, but I didn’t see him after I got off. I couldn’t find the trolley stop, and I’m cheap, so I decided to walk north and east until I saw the bridge and the Scarlet Lady.

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

@@BardWannabe hahah you sound like me! After I have committed and made up my mind, i am following through! That is one heck of a walk!

[@mollylover17]

Thank you for great video. I just have question. Where people keep their suitcases? I don’t see any inside.

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

There is not a designated spot for it. Luckily, the trolley isn't well used and there has always been plenty of space. I just leave my suitcase in the aisle. Did get one trolley the other day that had a lot of space in the back section. they come in a few designs it seems.

[@mindygehring467]

@@TheWeekendCruiser "Trolley isn't well used"...just the information I wanted to know! I was a bit worried we would wait for trolley and there wouldn't be any room for us. Thanks so much for the very useful information!

[@elliottmg1]

Does this trolley stop at the Carnival Terminal? I will be sailing on the celebration.

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

It sure does! Great option for you!

[@christylorenzen1900]

Has MSC formally opened their new terminal? If so, isn't MSC the farthest walk from the trolley stop?

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

Hey Christy, they are a ways out from opening the terminal and it is still under construction. It is huge! The current MSC terminal is in the middle of the island and close to a trolley stop.

[@Crunchtime7890]

Which MSC ship were you on? We are going on the Seascape May 14th and booked a Vrbo near the Coralway trolley.

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

Well done being by the trolly! I did the Divina.

[@lutonia]

Can you get on the trolley from the port, say if you stop there on your cruise for the day?

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

You sure can! It runs about every 15 to 30 minutes. Use the website to track it as it is free to anyone at anytime. Funny enough, even if you want to go to the port at 10pm, it is still running lol

[@babybunnies]

@The Weekend Cruiser, I was told the shuttle is NOT a good option as it does not take people with luggage directly to the expected port like RC or MSC or NCL. Is it safe to walk to these ports with a rollable suitcase ? Is there a walkway or sidewalk for all people to get to those ports even if it is walking over the bridge from the area of Bayside Marketplace? There is no information for maps, vidoes or direction to be found about people walking to the specific cruise ports. Some people still would like to save some $$$ and look for adventure! Any information on this? Thanks!

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

Hey there! Love that you are looking at taking the trolley and I just took it again on Sunday! It serves about 60% of the terminals. If you are sailing with RCL out of Terminal A or NCL out of terminal B, I would not recommend the shuttle. If taking Carnival, MSC, or Virgin it does drop you off very close and is an easy walk. The drivers are also nice, if you ask them to stop at a certain spot, they have normally done it for me. Hope this helps!

[@dancooper41]

I noticed another web site recommends transferring at Government Center when coming off metro rail. Do you definitely think Brickell is a better transfer point?

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

100% Brickell is better for Coral Way trolley. It does not go to govt center and you would need to transfer to the metro mover and then the trolley.

[@dancooper41]

@@TheWeekendCruiser Thanks so much! I may give this a try later today! Could only get a late boarding time so have plenty of time to kill & might as well save a few $$$.

[@traci_jo]

Great video. We are cruising out of Miami in April. Staying at Holiday Inn Port of Miami downtown. Is the trolley a good option for this or would Uber be best? Thanks.

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

The trolley will pick up across the street from your hotel. I would not take the trolley. If you're going to terminal A or terminal B. All the other ones it's fine. Just tell the driver when you board where you're going and they may let you off closer

[@traci_jo]

@@TheWeekendCruiser thanks for the tip. Its Royal Caribbean so I am not sure which port that is but I will find out. Thanks again.

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

@@traci_jo will depend on the ship. If a larger ship, good chances ran terminal A and the trolley would not work. Ie. Freedom or Oasis.

[@traci_jo]

@@TheWeekendCruiser yes I checked and it looks like terminal A so I guess it will be uber. Thanks for the help.

[@Cruising.with.a.toddler]

What about from Miami Airport to the Miami port to embark MSC? How to get to the trolley from the airport?

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

You would need to take the metro-rail from Miami to Brickell Station. This will connect you with the shuttle. Wish there was a more direct way but Miami/Florida is not known for it's transportation unfortunately.

[@Cruising.with.a.toddler]

Thanks for the reply!

[@TerceroJorge]

Is that the entire fleet in the shelf? ❤

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

Haha it is! My little collection 🤗

[@pryttyfatchick]

Hey Brandon, what do you suggest for someone to get from Virgin terminal to Allure of the Seas? Is an uber/lyft my only option?

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

Ride share is going to be the best option. Taxi drivers will be ticked with the short ride but Uber they are more used to it. If going from one RCL ship to a Celebrity or RCL ship the cruise lines might help but not from a competitor.

[@rmartini4444]

Any update on trollies stopping at terminal A?

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

Not that I have heard of... I even wrote into them to formally request it be extended and no response.

[@anthonyonthemove]

Great info

[@barbsheron8566]

If I get on at the port after debarkation, does the Trolley stop near Bayside Marketplace ?

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

On the route back, it will stop on 2nd Ave or 2 avenues away. If able to walk to the trolly, Bayside would only be about a 20-25 minute walk from the trolley. I have walked over the bridge many times.

[@cheribailey5041]

Does the trolley go to the Miami Airport?

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

The Coral Way Trolly does not. You can take the metrorail (above ground subway) to Brickell and transfer.

[@Reed-2big]

How much luggage can you take on these trolleys?

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

As much as you can handle! The folks that rode with me brought their luggage on in batches 🤷 just know the driver will not be able to assist you.

[@Reed-2big]

@@TheWeekendCruiser sounds great!

[@kevchandrika]

If tipping, whats a good amount?

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

I have not seen anyone tip. It is run by the city and is not expected. If you want, i am sure they would welcome money! Keep in mind, the driver cannot leave his seat to assist.

[@TerceroJorge]

Nice!

[@luislaplume8261]

Miami trolley is actually a rubber tire bus that uses either gasoline or diesel fuel.

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

You are not wrong! I think they designed it to look like a trolley for the publicity or marketing? Honestly, I still don't know why it isn't a regular bus like all the other MTA lines 😂

[@liznichols4916]

​@@TheWeekendCruiserI was just speaking on the phone with Miami-Dade transit. This is likely due to the fact that this trolley is a service provided by the city and not by Miami-Dade County.

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

@@liznichols4916 Ohhhh!!! I was always considering them the same thing!! How did you get someone on the phone? Would love to ask them when they are going to Terminal A in Port Miami!

[@liznichols4916]

@@TheWeekendCruiser I called multiple numbers on their site and sat on hold for 45m. 💀 I was speaking with Miami-Dade (county) transit who operates the busses and the rail systems. She was the one that informed me that they do not operate the Trolly and that it is operated by the city. I feel like it is confusing because the county and city have the same name in Miami. If I have time later today I will see if I can get in touch with people with the city Trolly and ask some questions. I will need to know myself anyway.

[@bretsk2500]

​@TheWeekendCruiser M-D bought them from Molly Corporation in Wells, ME. Molly Corp has been making "Molly Trolleys" since 1981...

[@autobotdiva9268]

never knew about it

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

The more you know!! Most people in Miami don't even know about it lol

[@ericlauzon5222]

Is there room to stow our luggages ?

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

There is! If you don't get the front row, therr I'd plenty of space in the back for luggage. It's also not well utilized, so always space.

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

@@jdxiong Good call out! Getting on at Bayside (close to the port) most people have already gotten off by time I get on Good to know! Try to have a free hand if possible!

[@Garth_T]

Seeing as how most of your followers are probably Royal cruisers, I don't think this is very helpful, since you yourself admitted the trolley doesn't have a stop near their terminal.

[@TheWeekendCruiser]

Hey Garth, you are correct, most followers are Ryal Caribbean and if sailing out of Terminal A, it is a no-go with the trolley. With that said, I would like to start moving the audience to be a bit more broad as I try out some difference cruise lines to match my cruising style and budget. Nothing too crazy but will be featuring more Virgin Voyages, MSC, Celebrity in the coming months - all of which this video would be applicable for. Terminal G also serves smaller RCL ships which could use the trolley. I also secretly hoped the Dept of Transportation would watch the video and see there is demand to take it to Terminal A. One of my shuttle drivers mentioned this has been in the works for a while but they haven't figured it out yet. Maybe I should look into an online petition as I too would LOVE for the trolley to service all terminals.