Hi Erin,
I have done an early departure with a flight at 10:30am and had no problem. We did a "walk-off" were we carried out luggage and got a waiting taxi. We were at the Fort Lauderdale port so the airport was only minutes away.
I would recommend arriving a day early. Winter weather can be tricky so we like to allow an extra day as a cushion. Enjoy your cruise.
Caseyg
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