Overview of Port Canaveral
If you’re wondering how to cruise from Port Canaveral, this guide covers everything you need to know about navigating the Port Canaveral cruise port, including hotels, airports, and transportation.
Port Canaveral is one of the busiest cruise ports in the world, serving major lines including Royal Caribbean, Carnival, Disney, and Norwegian. Located in Cape Canaveral, Florida, it sits about 45 miles east of Orlando and offers several terminals, easy access from the airport, and a range of nearby hotels and transportation services.
Flying Into Port Canaveral for Your Cruise
Best Airports for Port Canaveral Cruising
If you’re flying to Florida for your cruise, you’ll choose from three airports. Each has different advantages depending on airline, fare, and convenience.
1. Orlando International Airport (MCO): The Most Common Choice
- Distance: ~45 miles
- Drive Time: 45–60 minutes
- Benefits: Most nonstop flights, easiest transportation options, major hub for cruise travelers
Recommended Arrival: For the smoothest experience, plan to reach Florida one day before your cruise. This is the standard recommendation across most cruise lines due to flight delays and weather.
2. Melbourne Orlando International Airport (MLB)
- Distance: ~26–30 miles depending on route
- Close to the port but fewer flights
- Simple layout
3. Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB)
- Distance: ~55–60 miles
- Works well for Allegiant Air travelers
- May provide lower fares on select routes
Best Hotels Near Port Canaveral
Top-Rated Port Canaveral Cruise Hotels
Booking a hotel close to the port helps streamline embarkation day. These hotel options are convenient for travelers sailing from Port Canaveral. Here are some of the most convenient Port Canaveral hotels for cruisers:
Homewood Suites by Hilton Cape Canaveral–Cocoa Beach
- Suite-style rooms
- Free breakfast
- About 5 minutes from terminals
Hampton Inn & Suites Cape Canaveral Cruise Port
- Free breakfast
- Reliable transportation options
- Very close to the port
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Port Canaveral
- Popular with cruisers
- Offers Park & Cruise packages
- Quick shuttle or drive to the port
Residence Inn by Marriott Cape Canaveral
- Large suites with full kitchens
- Free breakfast
- Quiet location close to the terminals
Holiday Inn Club Vacations Cape Canaveral Beach Resort
- Resort amenities and villas
- Beach access
- Located about 2–3 miles from the port
- A good choice for travelers wanting additional downtime before or after their cruise
Transportation Options to Port Canaveral
There are several types of Port Canaveral transportation available depending on your budget and group size.
How to Get From Orlando to Port Canaveral
After arriving at one of the area airports, you’ll choose from several transportation options.
Cruise Line Shuttles
- Direct service from MCO only
- Convenient but may involve waiting for groups
- Not available from SFB or MLB
Independent Shuttle Companies
- Common providers include GoPort, Cortrans, and Cocoa Beach Shuttle
- Often lower cost than cruise line transportation
Uber, Lyft, and Taxis
- Widely available
- Typical MCO-to-Port Canaveral fare: $65–$100, though peak weekends or surge pricing can occasionally push it higher
- Good for early or flexible arrivals
Private Car or Van Service
- Ideal for families or larger groups
- Offers scheduled pickup and help with luggage
Parking at Port Canaveral
Where to Park for a Port Canaveral Cruise
Travelers driving to the port can choose from two main parking options:
On-Site Port Parking
- Located directly at the terminals
- Most convenient
- Higher cost but minimal transit time
Off-Site Cruise Parking
- More affordable
- Includes free shuttle service
- Popular providers include Park N Cruise and GoPort parking
What to Expect on Embarkation Day
Port Canaveral Terminals
Port Canaveral includes terminals for multiple cruise lines (Terminals 1, 3, 5, 6, 8, and 10). Your terminal assignment will be listed in your cruise documents.
Arrival Process
- Traffic: Can be heavy during peak embarkation hours. Traffic is heaviest between 10:30 AM and noon, as multiple ships often board at once.
- Luggage Drop-Off: Porters collect checked bags curbside
- Security: Similar to airport screening but generally faster
- Check-In: Identification, boarding documents, and cruise line app
- Boarding: Usually runs late morning through early afternoon
Debarkation and Returning to the Airport
Most ships begin debarkation between 7:00–8:00 AM. Recommended return flight times:
- MCO: After 12:00 PM (some lines say 11:30 AM is possible, but 12 PM is safer)
- SFB or MLB: After 12:00 PM, though these airports tend to be less congested than MCO
Additional Port Canaveral Travel Tips
- Download your cruise line’s app before arrival (Wi-Fi at the terminal can be slow during peak times)
- Keep a carry-on with essentials and medications
- Check launch calendars for Kennedy Space Center. If a launch is scheduled, expect heavier-than-normal traffic around SR-528 and A1A
- If staying in Orlando, plan for 45–60 minutes of travel time to the port