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Navigating The Port Canaveral Cruise Ship Terminals

• June 19, 2023

Navigating the Port Canaveral Cruise Ship Terminals

Port Canaveral is ranked as the busiest cruise port in the world and serves as a popular homeport for world-class cruise ships. The port is also famous for its waterfront dining, rocket launches, and other attractions unique to Florida’s Space Coast. Whether you are embarking on a cruise or just paying the port a visit, here is everything you need to know about navigating the Port Canaveral cruise terminals.

Port Canaveral is divided into two sections by the shipping channel. The northern end of the channel is home to Cruise Terminals 5, 6, 8, and 10. These terminals are easily accessed after turning off FL-528 E toward Port Canaveral/North Cargo Piers.

Cruise Terminal 5

Cruise Terminal #5 – 9245 Charles Rowland Drive

Cruise Terminal 5 is home to Royal Caribbean’s Mariner of the Seas and Jewel of the Seas .

The Norwegian Prima also sails from this Terminal 5.

The Marella Discovery sails from Terminal 5.

Cruise Terminal 6

Cruise Terminal #6 – 9241 Charles Rowland Drive

The majority of Carnival’s ships make use of Terminal 6 with the Carnival Magic , and Carnival Freedom sailing from this location. The Carnival Vista will join the fleet in the fall, as well as the Carnival Glory in spring of 2024.  Note: Carnival’s newest ship, the Mardi Gras , is sailing out of Cruise Terminal 3 on the B side, which was specifically built to accommodate her.

Cruise Terminal 8

Cruise Terminal #8 – 9155 Charles Rowland Drive

With the theme parks close by, it comes as no surprise that three Disney ships call Port Canaveral home. The Dream , Fantasy , and new Disney Wish currently dock at Cruise Terminal 8.

Cruise Terminal 10

Cruise Terminal #10 – 9005 Charles Rowland Drive

Cruise Terminal 10 is primarily utilized by Norwegian Cruise Line’s ships. The Escape currently sails from this terminal. The Getaway will begin sailing from this terminal in April of 2023 and the Jade and Epic will join them in 2024. 

The MSC Divina and MSC Meraviglia set sail from Terminal 10 also. The MSC Seaside will join them for part of 2023 as well, followed by the Seashore in November.

The majority of Port Canaveral’s dining and entertainment is located on the south side of the channel with Cruise Terminals 1, 2, and 3. These terminals are easily accessed by following FL-528 E and taking the George King Blvd exit.

Cruise Terminal 3

Cruise Terminal #3 – 220 Christopher Columbus Drive

One of the port’s most impressive additions, the newly-constructed Cruise Terminal 3, was built specifically for the Mardi Gras — Carnival’s newest and largest ship. The Carnival Liberty also sails out of this terminal.

Cruise Terminal 1

Cruise Terminal #1 – 9050 Discovery Road

Cruise Terminal 1 was made to handle some of Royal Caribbean’s biggest cruise ships. Harmony of the Seas , Wonder of the Seas , and Independence of the Seas currently sail from this terminal. Adventure of the Seas and Allure of the Seas will be joining the fleet in the fall of 2023. Voyager of the Seas will sail from this terminal as well in 2024. 

Port Canaveral Hotels, Transportation, and Parking

Are you cruising from Port Canaveral? Trying to find transportation on embarkation or debarkation day can be super stressful with surge pricing, difficult to navigate terminals, and many people trying to book making it difficult to secure a ride. This plus the cost of hotels can make your pre & post embarkation very expensive. That’s why we suggest bundling your transportation and hotel stays with Go Port .  Their Fly Snooze Cruise packages include airport pick-ups, hotel stays and transportation to Port Canaveral, making navigating the Port Canaveral terminal a breeze! Book Fly Snooze Cruise here . 

They also offer a large variety of other packages for parking or transportation only. You can set sail stress-free knowing Go Port will get you to your ship’s terminal with plenty of time to board. Let Go Port take care of everything you need ashore so you can make the most of your vacation. Book with Go Port here .

Dining & Entertainment

Cruise Terminal B is home to The Cove as well as Port Canaveral’s restaurant and retail area. Eateries such as Rusty’s Seafood and Oyster Ba r , Seafood Atlantic, and Grills Seafood Deck and Tiki Bar offer classic seaside meals, drinks, and live music. The Cove offers both indoor and outdoor seating with tiki bars for guests to enjoy sail-aways.

Exploration Tower

Port Canaveral’s Exploration Tower can also be found in Cruise Terminal B. This seven-story icon features indoor and outdoor observation decks, interactive exhibits, a leisure and recreation theater, café, and gift shop.

Jetty Park, located near Cruise Terminal 3, offers cruisers 4.5 acres of sandy beaches perfect for viewing rocket launches and sail-aways. This family-friendly park also features a concession stand for food, bait, and tackle. A fishing pier, pavilion rentals, and a playground area are also available on-site.

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• Tags: Cruise Terminal , Port Canaveral , Port Canaveral Cruise Terminal

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Port Canaveral Cruise Terminal Information

Last updated on June 12th, 2023 at 03:07 pm

Modern, efficient, and bustling, Port Canaveral offers seamless embarkation. Enjoy stunning views, streamlined check-in, and attentive staff. With its prime location and top-notch facilities, the terminal sets the stage for an unforgettable cruise adventure.

Port Canaveral is located at 1492 Charles M. Rowland Dr, Cape Canaveral, FL 32920 .

The Orlando International Airport is located approximately 45 miles to the west of the port and is serviced by most domestic and many international airlines. Port Canaveral is located near the center of the east coast of Florida. With seven cruise terminals, it is well equipped to handle the millions of passengers that pass through its gates every year. Each terminal has it’s own parking lot for easy access to the ship and signs will direct which ships are docked at which terminal.

Port Canaveral – Cruise Terminal Locations 

The following terminals are on the A side – North Side of the port.  When coming in A1A from Orlando, take exit 54A:

• Cruise Terminal #5 – 9245 Charles Rowland Drive
• Cruise Terminal #6 – 9241 Charles Rowland Drive
• Cruise Terminal #8 – 9155 Charles Rowland Drive ( Disney Cruises Terminal )
• Cruise Terminal #10 – 9005 Charles Rowland Drive

The following terminals are on the B side – South side of the port. When coming in A1A from Orlando, take exit 54 B.

• Cruise Terminal #1 – 9050 Discovery Road
• Cruise Terminal #3 – 220 Christopher Columbus Drive ( Carnival Cruises Terminal )

Disney Cruises Terminal Port Canaveral

Terminal 8 is Disney Cruises Terminal in Port Canaveral. During the cruise hiatus in 2020, some updates were made to the terminal to enhance customer convenience. 

Take a look at this video to see a tour of the terminal:

Carnival Cruise Terminal Port Canaveral

Terminal 3 was built specifically for the 2021 arrival of Carnival’s newest and largest ship, the Mardi Gras. 

Check out this video tour of T3!

Click below for more information: – Port Canaveral Transportation – Cruise Parking in Port Canaveral

Port Canaveral Embarkation Tips :

– boarding can start as early as 11:00am, but lines can be long. It is recommended to arrive no earlier than a half hour before the departure time given you by your cruise line. – have your cruise tickets and ID out to show at the port gate

Cruises From Port Canaveral

The following cruise lines  call Port Canaveral their homeport:

Carnival Cruise  

Disney Cruise  

Royal Caribbean

Norwegian Cruise Lines

Weather in Port Canaveral

In Florida, summer typically begins in early May and lasts until September. During these months, temperatures can reach as high as 32°C (90°F), and there is a good chance of thunderstorms occurring. The weather is much cooler during January to March, but the temperatures never get really chilly, compared to winters in the more northern states.

Click the helpful links below: – Port Canaveral Webcam – check out what’s coming in and out of port – Port Canaveral Hotels Near the Port – See Excursions in Port Canaveral area

This page contains affiliate links for which we may receive financial compensation when a purchase has been made through one of our affiliate partners.

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Which Port Canaveral Cruise Terminal Is Royal Caribbean?

With multiple cruise terminals available, it’s crucial to identify the correct terminal for Royal Caribbean departures to ensure a smooth embarkation process.

Does Royal Caribbean Go Out of Cape Canaveral?

Royal Caribbean does indeed sail out of Cape Canaveral, and there are several terminals in Port Canaveral specifically designated for their ships. It’s crucial to refer to your cruise documents before arriving at the port to determine which terminal your ship will be departing from.

Port Canaveral, located on the east coast of Florida, is one of the busiest cruise ports in the world. It serves as the homeport for numerous cruise lines, including Royal Caribbean. The port boasts state-of-the-art facilities and excellent transportation options for travelers.

Terminal assignments can vary depending on the ship and the date of departure. Royal Caribbean ships typically use either Terminal A or Terminal B at Port Canaveral. Terminal A is the latest addition to the port and features a modern design and innovative amenities. Terminal B, on the other hand, offers convenient access and efficient embarkation processes.

To avoid any confusion or last-minute hassles, it’s always advisable to check your cruise documents or contact Royal Caribbean directly to confirm the terminal assignment for your specific sailing. This information will be crucial for planning your arrival and ensuring a smooth embarkation process.

Once you’ve determined the correct terminal, you can make arrangements accordingly. Port Canaveral provides various transportation options, including taxis, shuttles, and rideshare services. Additionally, there are parking facilities available for those traveling by car.

By familiarizing yourself with the specific details of your upcoming cruise, you can ensure a stress-free embarkation process and start your vacation off on the right foot. Terminal assignments may change depending on the sailing, so it’s always recommended to double-check the information closer to your departure date.

Port Canaveral: An Overview of the Port and It’s Facilities

Port Canaveral is located in Brevard County, Florida, and serves as a major cruise port for travelers in the area. It’s one of the busiest cruise ports in the world and is home to several cruise lines, including Royal Caribbean. The port offers various cruise terminals, each of which caters to different cruise lines and ships.

Royal Caribbean primarily operates out of Terminal 1 at Port Canaveral, also known as the Cruise Terminal. This terminal provides a range of amenities and facilities to enhance the boarding and disembarking process for Royal Caribbean passengers. These include efficient check-in counters, baggage handling services, parking facilities, and security measures.

The port itself boasts numerous amenities for travelers, including shopping and dining options. Passengers can explore the Exploration Tower, a seven-story building that offers panoramic views of the port and it’s surroundings. Additionally, Port Canaveral provides convenient access to popular local attractions, such as the Kennedy Space Center and Cocoa Beach.

In summary, Port Canaveral offers a variety of cruise terminals, with Royal Caribbean primarily operating out of Terminal 1. The port provides efficient facilities and amenities to enhance the cruise experience for Royal Caribbean passengers, as well as easy access to nearby attractions and entertainment options.

Embarking on a memorable voyage aboard the magnificent Carnival Magic begins at the prominent Port Canaveral. This bustling port, nestled along Florida’s picturesque coastline, serves as the departure point for Carnival Cruise Line’s impressive vessel, ushering passengers into a world of unparalleled luxury, excitement, and adventure.

What Port Does Carnival Magic Leave From?

Port Canaveral is the designated departure port for the Carnival Magic cruise ship. Situated on the east coast of Florida, Port Canaveral is one of the busiest cruise ports in the world and offers a convenient gateway to many popular cruise destinations.

Carnival Magic sails from Terminal 6 at Port Canaveral. This modern terminal offers excellent facilities and amenities to ensure a smooth and stress-free embarkation process for passengers. The terminal is easily accessible, with ample parking available and a convenient drop-off area for passengers.

Once onboard the Carnival Magic, passengers can look forward to a fantastic array of amenities and activities. This beautiful ship features multiple dining options, including specialty restaurants, casual eateries, and 24-hour room service. Entertainment options abound, with live shows, comedy clubs, bars, and lounges offering something for everyone.

Carnival Magic offers a diverse range of itineraries from Port Canaveral, including exciting Caribbean voyages to destinations such as the Bahamas, Eastern and Western Caribbean, and the Caribbeans beautiful islands. Whether youre looking for a short getaway or a longer adventure, youre sure to find a cruise that suits your preferences on the Carnival Magic.

In addition to the stunning destinations, the Carnival Magic also offers a range of exciting activities onboard, including water parks, sports facilities, spa and fitness centers, and a variety of pool options. Whether youre looking to relax and unwind or seek out thrilling adventures, the Carnival Magic has you covered.

This bustling and convenient port offers excellent facilities and easy access to a wide range of itineraries and destinations.

Information on the Amenities and Facilities at Terminal 6 at Port Canaveral.

Terminal 6 at Port Canaveral is a cruise terminal used by Royal Caribbean. It offers a variety of amenities and facilities to enhance the cruise experience for passengers. Some of the amenities you can find at Terminal 6 include parking facilities for both long-term and short-term options, check-in counters, security checkpoints, customs and immigration services, and baggage handling services.

Inside the terminal, you’ll find comfortable seating areas, restrooms, and vending machines for snacks and beverages. Terminal 6 also has Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing passengers to stay connected while waiting to board their ship.

Upon arrival, porters are available to assist with luggage, and there are car rental services nearby if you wish to explore the area before or after your cruise. Terminal 6 provides a convenient and efficient embarkation and disembarkation process, ensuring a smooth start and end to your Royal Caribbean cruise from Port Canaveral.

Located in Brevard County, Florida, Port Canaveral is a bustling hub for cruise, cargo, and naval activities. Renowned as the world’s busiest cruise port, it saw over 4 million passengers in 2022 alone. With 13 multiday cruise ships from five popular cruise lines, namely Carnival, Disney, MSC, Norwegian, and Royal Caribbean, there’s an extensive range of options for travelers setting sail from this port. Beyond it’s maritime activities, Port Canaveral also plays a crucial role in driving the local tourism market, as many cruise passengers choose to stay at nearby hotels before or after their voyages.

How Many Cruise Ships Go Out of Cape Canaveral?

Port Canaveral is a bustling hub for the cruise industry, serving as the embarkation point for numerous ships. With it’s prime location in Brevard County, Florida, it’s become the worlds busiest cruise port, accommodating over 4 million passengers during it’s 2022 financial year. This high traffic is a testament to it’s popularity among tourists and cruisers alike.

Currently, there are 13 multiday cruise ships calling Port Canaveral their home. These ships are operated by five prominent cruise lines, namely Carnival, Disney, MSC, Norwegian, and Royal Caribbean. Each line offers unique itineraries and experiences, catering to a diverse range of travelers. Whether it’s the enchantment of Disney or the dynamic offerings of Royal Caribbean, there’s something for everyone.

Speaking of Royal Caribbean, it’s one of the key cruise lines operating out of Port Canaveral. Since it’s inception in 1968, Royal Caribbean International has been a prominent figure in the industry. It’s known for it’s innovative fleet, world-class amenities, and top-notch service. Cruisers who opt for Royal Caribbean can expect a memorable experience from start to finish.

Many cruise passengers choose to extend their stay in the area, either before or after their cruises. This contributes to the economy by generating revenue for local hotels, restaurants, and attractions. The presence of Port Canaveral has undoubtedly bolstered the overall tourism industry of the Space Coast.

It’s strategic location and world-class facilities make it a preferred choice for many travelers looking to embark on memorable cruise vacations.

Overview of Port Canaveral’s Facilities and Amenities for Cruise Passengers.

• Multiple cruise terminals
• Convenient parking facilities
• Shuttle services
• On-site accommodations
• Restaurants and dining options
• Shopping opportunities
• Recreational activities
• Excursion options
• Sightseeing opportunities
• Accessibility features
• Security measures
• Information desks
• Port Canaveral’s history
• Cruise itineraries
• Transportation options

When it comes to cruising out of Port Canaveral, the most popular airport choice is Orlando International Airport (MCO). Located about 45 minutes away from the cruise terminal by car, it offers the closest proximity and a wide selection of flights from various locations in the country.

What Airport to Fly Into for Royal Caribbean Port Canaveral?

For those planning to cruise out of Port Canaveral, the most convenient airport to fly into is Orlando International Airport (MCO). Located just 45 minutes away by car, it offers the closest access to the cruise terminal. Additionally, MCO boasts a wide range of flights from various gateways across the United States, making it the ideal choice for travelers from all corners of the country.

While there are other airports in the vicinity, such as Melbourne International Airport, they may not have as many flight options and could result in longer travel times to the cruise terminal. Therefore, for the sake of convenience and accessibility, flying into Orlando International Airport is highly recommended.

The proximity of MCO to the cruise terminal allows travelers to minimize their travel time and maximize their vacation experience. Whether you’re traveling from the East Coast or the West Coast, you can easily find a flight that suits your schedule and budget.

Upon arriving at Orlando International Airport, travelers have several transportation options to reach the Port Canaveral cruise terminal. Rental cars, shuttles, and private car services are readily available to transfer passengers to their desired destination. These transportation services can be pre-arranged or conveniently arranged at the airport.

Comparing Travel Times and Convenience of Different Airports Near Port Canaveral for Cruise Travelers.

• Orlando International Airport (MCO)
• Melbourne International Airport (MLB)
• Sanford International Airport (SFB)
• Tampa International Airport (TPA)
• Palm Beach International Airport (PBI)
• Ft. Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL)

The Royal Caribbean Wonder of the Seas, the world’s largest cruise ship, has found it’s home in Port Canaveral since November 202This massive vessel, completed in the renowned Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard, is the flagship of Royal Caribbean International and the fifth of it’s kind in the Oasis class. With it’s year-round service, Wonder of the Seas offers a truly unparalleled experience for cruise enthusiasts.

What Is Royal Caribbean’s Largest Ship Port Canaveral?

Port Canaveral is one of the premier cruise ports in the world, serving as the gateway to the enchanting wonders of the Caribbean. With it’s convenient location on Floridas east coast, it’s no wonder that Royal Caribbean chose this bustling port as the home for it’s largest ship, the Wonder of the Seas.

The Wonder of the Seas, completed in 2022, is the flagship of Royal Caribbean International. With it’s impressive size and luxurious amenities, it’s no surprise that this magnificent vessel is the largest cruise ship in the world. It was constructed at the Chantiers de lAtlantique shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, France, and now calls Port Canaveral it’s home.

Since it’s debut, the Wonder of the Seas has been sailing from Port Canaveral year-round, offering passengers an unforgettable experience on the high seas. This ship is a true marvel, featuring a wide range of onboard activities, entertainment options, and culinary delights. From relaxing at the spa to taking a plunge on the tallest slide at sea, there’s something for everyone aboard this impressive vessel.

Not only does the Wonder of the Seas offer an unparalleled experience on the ship, but it also provides access to some of the most breathtaking destinations in the Caribbean. Passengers can embark on exciting shore excursions, explore vibrant cities, lounge on pristine beaches, and immerse themselves in the rich cultures of the islands.

Port Canaveral is the perfect setting for the Wonder of the Seas, as it offers state-of-the-art facilities and a seamless embarkation process for passengers. With it’s proximity to Orlando, passengers can easily extend their vacation and visit the world-famous theme parks and attractions in the area.

With it’s grandeur, world-class amenities, and access to stunning Caribbean destinations, it’s no wonder that this ship is a favorite among cruisers seeking an unforgettable vacation experience.

The Features and Amenities of the Wonder of the Seas

The Wonder of the Seas is a Royal Caribbean cruise ship that offers a wide range of features and amenities to enhance the cruise experience. With multiple dining options, including specialty restaurants and casual eateries, passengers can indulge in delicious cuisine throughout their journey. The ship also boasts numerous entertainment venues, such as theaters, lounges, and bars, where guests can enjoy live performances and socialize with fellow travelers. For relaxation and rejuvenation, there’s a spa and fitness center offering various treatments and workout facilities. Additionally, the Wonder of the Seas has a variety of onboard activities and amenities for all ages, including pools, water slides, sports courts, and a kids’ club. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or entertainment, this cruise ship provides something for everyone.

Source: World’s largest cruise ship Wonder of the Seas brings it’s own …

In conclusion, determining which Port Canaveral cruise terminal is used by Royal Caribbean involves considering multiple factors. The cruise line tends to utilize multiple terminals throughout the year, adapting to the specific needs of their itineraries and ship sizes. The most commonly used terminals for Royal Caribbean at Port Canaveral are Terminals 1 and 6, offering convenient access to a range of amenities and transportation options. Travelers planning a Royal Caribbean cruise from Port Canaveral should carefully check their booking details or contact the cruise line directly to confirm the exact terminal they should arrive at. Being well-informed will help ensure a smooth embarkation and a memorable cruise experience with Royal Caribbean from Port Canaveral.

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Port Canaveral (Orlando, Florida)

Cruise port schedule, live map, terminals, news.

Region Bahamas - Caribbean - Bermuda

Local Time 2024-04-18 21:23

Port Port Canaveral cruise ship schedule shows timetable calendars of all arrival and departure dates by month. The port's schedule lists all ships (in links) with cruises going to or leaving from Port Canaveral, Orlando, Florida. To see the full itineraries (ports of call dates and arrival / departure times) and their lowest rates – just follow the corresponding ship-link.

Port Canaveral (cruise port to Orlando City, Florida USA) is currently ranked world's busiest cruise port (4,07 million cruisers/stats 2023) followed by Miami Florida .

As homeport, this is a major turnaround port destination (serving roundtrip itineraries) with annual shipping traffic 4,5+ million cruise ship tourists. Cape Canaveral is a leading USA homeport for all the world's largest cruise companies - CCL-Carnival , RCI-Royal Caribbean , NCL-Norwegian , DCL-Disney .

The world's top-10 busiest cruise ports (by annual passengers numbers/stats 2023) are in Florida USA (Port Canaveral/Orlando/4,07M, Miami /4,02M, Port Everglades/Fort Lauderdale ), Mexico ( Cozumel ), Bahamas ( Nassau ), China ( Shanghai ), Spain ( Barcelona ), Bahamas (Out Islands), Texas USA ( Galveston ), Italy ( Civitavecchia-Rome ).

Cape Canaveral Port

Port Cape Canaveral (locode USPCV) is located on Florida's Atlantic coastline, between Miami and Jacksonville . Orlando City is bounded by Port Canaveral (north), Banana River (east), Cocoa Beach (south) and the Atlantic Ocean (west). As a deepwater seaport, Port Canaveral has a very high volume of traffic. From a total of 6 million cargo tons moved through the port annually, 2,7+ million tons (3 million short tons) are bulk cargoes. Common cargo includes petroleum, aggregate and cement. The port features hoppers and conveyors for loading products directly into trucks, as well as bulk cargo container facilities. The channel is about 13 m (44 ft) deep.

There are 70,000 m2 (750,000 ft2) of covered freight storage capacity. In 2004 Port Canaveral handled 3,6 million tons (4M short tons) of cargo. It exports fresh citrus and bulk frozen citrus juice is stored in one of the biggest freezer warehouses in the state. The port also receives salt for water softening, lumber, automobiles, steel sheets and plates. Port Canaveral transships items for sea, air, space and land. Its Foreign Trade Zone is one of the nation's largest general-purpose FTZs, more than 13 km2 (5 mi2). Each year the port boosts the economy by 1/2 billion dollars.

Port's cruise shipping business started in 1964, with SS Yarmouth Castle. The 1927-built steamship (for Chadade Steamship Company) was acquired by Yarmouth Cruise Lines in 1957. The liner was American-owned and Panama- flagged . In 1965, the ship burnt at sea (between Nassau and Miami).

The 1965-opened sea lock (part of Canaveral Barge Canal) is still in use, being maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Shipping and commercial fishing is also served by three 400 ft/120 m-long cargo piers constructed on the Port's north side in 1976. The seaport has supported NASA's space projects from the nearby JF Kennedy Space Center. During NASA's Apollo program, Saturn V rocket's segments transited via the lock. Space Shuttle's external tanks were floated for each mission into Port Canaveral, and the rocket boosters were towed back via the seaport, being fished from the Atlantic after each space launch.

In August 2015, commissioners approved USD 81 million port development project for upgrades of terminals 5 and 10, aimed at handling larger-sized vessels (details in the "terminal" section below). The project's financing was secured through bank loans and bonds.

Following President Donald Trump's executive order on immigration, in late-January 2017 were officially issued reports about cruise passengers being detained by US Customs and Border Protection. All detainees had to provide background info about them, their families and also their past life in their native countries. Trump's executive order was signed on January 27th and includes a 90-day ban on travel to the USA by citizens of Iraq, Syria, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Somalia, Yemen.

In early November 2017, RCI-Royal Caribbean announced the company's decision to homeport here in 2019 the world's largest passenger vessel - Harmony of the Seas (max capacity 6687 passengers plus 2100 crew). Starting May 2019, Harmony OTS offers 7-night Eastern and Western Caribbean roundtrip itineraries. Harmony replaced Oasis OTS (redeployed in 2019 to Miami ). Also in 2019, Mariner OTS (max capacity 4200 passengers plus 1180 crew) was homeported here for 3-4-night roundtrips to The Bahamas. The ship first arrived in Port Canaveral in 2003 (inaugural cruise on November 14).

In December 2017, Carnival Cruise Lines announced the homeporting of Carnival Elation in 2019. Starting May 12, 2019, the ship operates year-round scheduled 4-5-day "long weekend" Bahamas cruises. Departures are on Thursdays (4-day itinerary to Freeport and Nassau ) and on Mondays and Saturdays (5-day itinerary to Amber Cove Dominicana and Grand Turk Island ).

In December 2017, Port Canaveral completed the 6-month long West Turning Basin deepening project, now allowing max draft of 45 ft (13,7 m). Port's containership terminal (North Cargo berths 5 and 6) is operated by GT USA. The dredging works removed 22,3+ million ft3 (632,000 m3) of seabed material. For the dredging was contracted Dutra Group (based in San Rafael, California). The project's total cost was USD 7,5 million, with approx 2/3 of the cost covered by FDOT (Florida Department of Transportation). The Port's entry channel was cleared from obstructions (bridges, power lines) and is now without air draft restrictions. West Turning Basin has quay length ~600 m (2000 ft) and draft 13 m/43 ft - making it one of East Coast USA's deepest cargo berths without vessel air draft limits.

In January 2018 was approved the construction of a new multi-purpose cargo ship berth ("North Cargo Berth 8" / NCB8). By the project were also built a seawall (900 ft / 274 m) and a pier extension (100 ft / 31 m) with capacity to handle vessels with max LOA length 850 ft/259 m. At the new berth can be handled various heavy project cargoes (including aerospace). Berth's depth is 35 ft (11 m). The USD 17,9 million berth construction contract was awarded to the Tampa -based company Orion Marine Group. The contract includes building the bulkhead, seawall, relieving platform and dredging. Construction works started in March 2018, with scheduled completion by mid-2019.

In 2018, two port development projects received funding for maintenance works in the seaport. The contractor is USACE (US Army Corps of Engineers). For the projects were allocated USD 14,76 million (Canaveral Harbor Sand Bypass and jetty upgrades) and USD 1,47 million (Harbor and Locks).

On December 5, 2018, Canaveral Port Authority (CPA) approved a series of bonds (up to USD 117 million) for financing "Cruise Terminal 3" (dubbed "Launch Pad") project. In 2021, at the new CT3 Terminal was homeported Carnival's newest and largest ( LNG-powered ) liner Mardi Gras .

• The project's financing package included bonds up to USD 80 million (30-year, Series A and B) and up to USD 37 million (20-year loan, Series C) by SunTrust Bank (specializing in mortgage, personal and small-business banking). The bank is subsidiary of the Atlanta GA-based SunTrust Banks Inc (reported assets in March 2018 USD 199 billion).
• Additionally was approved to increase Port's PNC Bank credit line from USD 25 to 50 million. The port also received from Florida Department of Transportation USD 6 million in grants for the infrastructure works.
• Carnival Cruise Terminal 3 has a dedicated wharf, adjacent parking (6-storey, capacity 1800 vehicles) and a newbuild road. The project's total improvements cost USD 163 million, of which $50 million were contributed by Carnival Corporation . The facility was completed in September 2020, but due to the crisis was inaugurated on June 4, 2021, with the arrival of Mardi Gras.

On May 22, 2019, Disney Cruises signed with CPA a 20-year operating agreement for homeporting two of its three newbuilds . Under the new deal, Disney has 3 boats homeported here (2 new, 1 old) which increased the number of guaranteed roundtrips from 150 per year (2019) to 180 (2023) and 216 (2024 and beyond).

In early March 2020 was launched an RO-RO Division in Port Canaveral - a dedicated vehicle terminal with max annual capacity 240,000 cars. The 16-acres terminal is at South Cargo Pier 4 and serves mainly new import automobiles. The terminal has a large climate-controlled warehouse (sized 20,000 ft2 / 1860 m2). In FY2019, the port handled a total of 12514 vehicles.

Following the port's ban for cruise ship dockings and passenger operations (due to the COVID pandemic), in the period April 3 through May 30, 2020, Canaveral Port Authority furloughed all its employees dedicated to cruise shipping operations.

For a 5-month refurbishment project in 2020 (June through November) was closed CT8 (Disney Cruise Terminal 8).

In April 2023, Port Canaveral officials proposed the construction of a new cruise terminal. The US$175 million facility could be built on the Port's southern side, and completed and opened in 2026-Q4.

In August 2023 was allocated US$68,16 million for two new cruise parking garages (an 8-level near Terminals 5 and 6, and a 6-level near Terminal 10.

Cape Canaveral port statistics

Note: Port's FY (fiscal year) runs from October 1 (current year) through September 30 (next year).

In FY2017, the cruise port handled 4,52+ million passengers (6,4% increase over FY2016). The number of multi-day passengers (4,234+ million) was 7,1% increase over 2016. Statistics showed that just in March 2017, the number of visiting cruiseship tourists was 469,847. This was the Port's 1-month record and a 19% increase over March 2016. Port's FY2017 total revenues were USD 47,4 million (freight and passengers).

For FY2018, the seaport reported a record year with USD 103,75 million in total revenues (218,9% increase over 2017). Cargo and cruise shipping volumes were also an all-time high. The number of handled cruise ship passengers increased by 7,7% - to 4,568431 million. Port's handled cargo tonnage increased by 6,9% - to 6,404944 million tons. Port's total economic output was USD 3,9 billion with around 32650 jobs supported (USD 1,3 billion in wages) including 17200 port workers (USD 0,7294 billion in wages).

For FY2019, the port had ~5% growth (over FY18) in revenues from cruise shipping. By homeporting operations (turnarounds) Port Canaveral is currently ranked the world's 2nd-busiest (after Miami) cruise port with handled in 2019 total 4,634154 million passengers (4,568431 million in 2018).

For season 2019, the cruise port reported a record berth booking with estimated 4,7+ million passengers.

In 2023, Port Canaveral reported a record year with handled 906 cruise ship calls, 13 homeporting ships, ~6,8 million cruise tourists, US$158 million in revenue from cruise shipping operations. For season 2024, the Port had booked 913 ship calls and expected ~7,3M passengers

Port Canaveral cruise terminal

Besides being a large cruise port, Port Canaveral is also among the USA's/and the world's largest naval and cargo ports. On average, each day 10 cruise vessels enter the port.

Port Canaveral's cruise terminals serve several major cruise shipping companies. Terminal 5 is the homeport for ships of RCI-Royal Caribbean , Celebrity , NCL-Norwegian , Marella UK . Terminal 6 serves ships of CCL-Carnival and Princess . Terminal 10 homeports ships of MSC and NCL.

The following cruise port map shows Port Canaveral port's infrastructure, the location of terminal facilities, connecting roads and transportation links to Orlando City.

Port Canaveral is the nearest Disney World city, situated about one hour east of Orlando by car. The Orlando Airport is 45 mi/70 km away. The driving distance to Tampa is 2 hours, to Jacksonville - 2,5 hours.

There are seven cruise terminals, but in regular use are 5 - numbers 3, 5, 6, 8 and 10. They are newer, located on the Port's north side, and serve larger ships. Southside terminals are older. Gambling ships use Terminal 2. Terminal 3 is the new Carnival Cruise Line's terminal.

Currently, Terminal 4 is also used, but rarely. In April 2024 was announced a plan for a new facility at Terminal 4, to be completed in 2026.

The cruise terminal parking rate is USD 15 per day (Port Authority subject to change). There is a parking lot beside each cruise terminal. Port Canaveral offers complimentary cruise parking for disabled Veterans. Approved are waiving cruise parking fees for vehicles with DV (Disabled Veteran) license plates issued under Florida Statutes "s.320.084", "s.320.0842" or "s.320.0845".

In August 2023, Port Canaveral commissioners allocated US$67,46 million for constructing two northside cruise parking garages. For the projects was contracted Ivey's Construction Inc. The larger facility (an 8-level garage with capacity 1940 vehicles) is adjacent to Terminals 5 and 6, while the smaller one (a 6-level garage with capacity 1081 vehicles) is near Terminal 10.

(NEW) Cruise Terminal (2026)

In April 2023 was proposed the construction of a new cruise terminal on the Port's southern side.

The US$175 million facility could be completed and opened in 2026-Q4.

This proposal for a new passenger terminal came after two newbuild large cruise liners were homeported year-round in Cape Canaveral starting in 2024-Q4.

If approved, the proposal will be included in the Port's budget for FY2023 (October 1, 2022, thru September 30, 2023). FY23 was marked by increased cruise shipping traffic and stronger-than-expected, cruise-related revenues (including from parking) estimated at US$150,87 million. The previous estimate was US$124,48M. This represented ~83,7% of Port Canaveral's total projected operating revenue (US$180,35M) including from cargo shipping/handling, recreation, leasing, and other business activities. It was estimated that the Port's FY23 will have US$75,43M profit (including non-operating revenues and expenses) which was US$53,36M before FY23's budget began. The profit was used for port development projects and for reducing debt from previous projects.

In May 2023, were announced plans for a new cruise terminal at the site of the Bluepoints Marina. The facility (projected cost US$175M) could be ready/inaugurated in 2026-Q4.

(NEW) Carnival Cruise Terminal 3 (CT3-Launch Pad)

In late-April 2017, Port Canaveral started construction works on a new cruise terminal.

The facility is on the site of "Cruise Terminal 3" (port's southern / B side), west of Jetty Park and east of The Cove (dining-shopping-attractions complex). On June 7, 2017, engineering and design works for the new terminal were officially approved.

Canaveral Port Authority Commissioners approved US$1,2 million in funding for CH2M Engineering's project management contract. This was Phase I of the 2-year work plan to construct a modern facility with capacity to serve vessels with max capacity 8000 passengers.

At the new passenger terminal can berth even the world's largest cruise vessels of RCI's OASIS-class. CH2M Engineering provided engineering, support services and waterside design for the new Terminal 3.

The project's budget is USD 163 million (initially estimated cost was US$150M), of which US$50M contributed by Carnival Corporation . Ranked the USA's largest single building project, it included the demolition of the port's oldest terminal, construction of a brand new 2-story building (sized 17466 m2 / 188,000 ft2), upgrading the existing berth and building a new (adjacent to the terminal) parking garage, roadway and utility improvements.

The 20-month-long, multi-phased project included 5 separate contracts. Demolition works (of the existing Terminal 3 building) started in April 2018, at the cost of US$210,000.

• Following the building demolition, the project's next phases included berth demolition, dredging, dockside construction, building passenger boarding (mobile) bridges and terminal building, site works, building a covered parking garage (6-story building, sized 690,000 ft2 / 64,100 m2, capacity 1800 cars).
• On August 30, 2018, the Canaveral Port Authority (CPA) Board of Commissioners voted unanimously to approve a long-term terminal operation agreement with Carnival Cruise Line, allowing the company to homeport here its newest and biggest liner .
• Beginning September 1, 2018, the new agreement replaced the old (6-year concession) expiring in 2019. The new 25-year primary term has 4 additional 5-year renewal options. The minimum annual revenue from passenger fees (guaranteed by Carnival) was increased from USD 7 million (fixed, per year) to USD 14,5 million (with annual escalators).
• On January 8, 2019, the CPA Board of Commissioners awarded the company Ivey's Construction Inc the USD 79 million contract for building Cruise Terminal 3, plus USD 29,53M contract for building the adjacent parking.
• On April 24, 2019, Canaveral Port Authority commissioners unanimously approved several design changes in the CT3 Project to reduce building costs. Ivey's Construction Inc (Merritt Island-based) won the contract in January with a bid of USD 78,98 million. However, design changes resulted in total savings of USD 4,535 million, bringing the terminal's total cost down to USD 74,45 million. In all, "Cruise Terminal 3" costs USD 163 million when are added the costs of the adjacent parking garage, waterside improvements, two passenger boarding bridges, design services. Plans were redesigned after engineering studies reduced the number of needed piles (also their size and coating) without sacrificing the structural integrity.

The new Carnival Cruise Terminal (CT3) is a 2-story building (sized 187,000 ft2 / 17370 m2) with max passenger capacity 6500 at a time. Among its amenities are electronic systems to facilitate passenger screening, mobile check-in (for expediting boarding), ATMs, restrooms, waiting and baggage halls, retail shopping area, info kiosks.

Construction works officially started on March 18, 2019, and the Terminal was completed in September 2020.

At the new CT3 terminal was homeported Carnival's largest vessel Mardi Gras (GT 180,000 tons, LNG-powered , capacity 5286 berths / max passengers 6500). The new liner's LNG bunkering is dockside (barge-to-ship).

Mardi Gras docked for the first time on June 4, 2021, and was joined later on the same day by the fleetmates Carnival Freedom and Carnival Liberty .

North (A Side) Cruise terminals (5, 6, 8, 10)

They are located on the A dock at the north side. Along is the Charles M Rowland Drive.

All are up to date and can handle the biggest passenger ships. Especially for Disney Cruise Line ships was built Cruise Terminal 8.

For a 5-month refurbishment project in 2020 was closed Disney's Cruise Terminal 8 (June through November). The closure was for installing a new curtainwall-pile (breakwater), removing ticket counters, extending the drop-off canopy, replacing the current seating.

In 2016, about USD 2,3 million were spent at Disney Terminal 8's renovations. This cruise facility is used exclusively by Disney ships. Cruise Terminal 10 was reopened on November 19, 2016, following USD 35 million expansion and upgrade project which took 6 months to complete. Terminal 10 (1994-built) is used by NCL (Norwegian Cruise Line) .

Renovation works included increasing the size of the 2-story terminal building (from 97,050 to 125,825 ft2 / 9016 to 11690 m2). Lower floor's baggage processing area was increased from 42,800 to 64,400 ft2 (3976 to 5983 m2). Upper floor's passengers check-in area was increased from 54,250 to 61,430 ft2 (5040 to 5707 m2).

The development project allowed the terminal to handle larger cruise ships (carrying up to 5,500 passengers). Previously, its max capacity was 3,600 passengers.

Among the major projects of the Cruise Terminal 10 renovations were:

• USD 25,69 million for terminal renovations, with H.J. High of Orlando as contractor. The downstairs area where baggage processing occurs increased from the previous 42,799 ft2 to 64,396 ft2. The upstairs area where passengers check-in increased from the previous 54,249 ft2 to 61,428 ft2.
• USD 4,48 million were invested into new mobile Passenger Boarding Bridges (by the Spanish manufacturer ADELTE). The new mobile bridge systems replaced the old fixed gangways and provide better flexibility when used by differently-sized cruise vessels that have different heights and boarding door locations.
• USD 1,79 million were used for the existing cruise pier strengthening. The contractor (Vortex Marine of Oakland, California) used carbon fiber polymer technology to reinforce and extend the pier's life and structural capacity.

In 2016 was completed another (USD 48,4 million) renovation project at Cruise Terminal 5 (used mostly by Carnival Cruise Line ). Among the improvements were terminal expansion, pier elongation (by 120 ft / 37 m), new mobile boarding bridges, new parking garage (capacity 1044 cars). The 1991-built Terminal 5 now allows berthing of larger ships (with up to 3500 passengers / previously up to 2500). For the project were contracted a total of 87 companies.

South (B Side) Cruise Terminals (2, 4)

They are located on the B dock at the southwest side. Along is George King Blvd. They were among the Port's first cruise facilities and can handle not more than 1900 passengers.

(new) Cruise Terminal 1

On November 5, 2016, in Port Canaveral arrived its ever largest passenger ship - Oasis of the Seas . The mega-liner docked at the new "Cruise 1 Terminal" (inaugurated in December 2014). Oasis OTS was homeported here replacing the smaller Freedom OTS .

Facility's main tenant is RCI Royal Caribbean and was designed specifically to handle Oasis-class vessels. The new terminal is sized 188,000 ft2 (17,470 m2) and has a dedicated parking garage with capacity 1007 vehicles. The project cost USD 104,6M.

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Center: NASA’s base where Apollo missions have been launched. Watch a movie at the center of IMAX, learn the space exploration future at the Exploration Space show, go to the Apollo Center and the LC39 Gantry or try the Shuttle Launch Experience.

US Astronaut Hall of Fame: 5 miles away from the Kennedy Space Center. Honor the American astronauts, watch the Science On A Sphere show, try the Sigma 7 Mercury rocket or a real training for astronauts.

Jetty Park: park at the coastline with a beach, camping and a playground, picnic areas and pavilions. Enjoy the amazing marine traffic view from the pier, favorite place for fishermen and tourists. You can have a coffee, eat or buy something at the Cove Waterfront area, located between the park and the port.

Cocoa Beach Pier: dating since 1962, Space coast best-known landmark located 4 miles away ftom Port Canaveral. It offers bars, souvenir shops, restaurants, live music and lively beach.

Orlando Amusement Parks: enjoy the attractions Walt Disney World , Disney/MGM Studios, Universal Studios, Sea World of Florida and much more.

Port Canaveral tours, shore excursions, hotels

City tours and shore excursions.

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Port Canaveral - user reviews and comments

Port Canaveral, Florida: TPG's complete cruise guide for hotels, transfers and sightseeing

Update: Some offers mentioned below are no longer available. View the current offers here .

Cruising out of Port Canaveral is so easy. There are four airports nearby, so no matter where you're flying from, you can getting to your ship is a snap. But with the theme park capital of the world -- Orlando -- just up the road, it's a no-brainer for cruisers to schedule some pre- and/or post-cruise vacation time. Make it a point to visit Walt Disney World , The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando and Legoland .

Even if you aren't a theme-park fan, the Space Coast deserves your time. You can visit Kennedy Space Center or spend a day lounging on famous Cocoa Beach. Both are just 20 minutes from the port. Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge is also worth a look. You can drive through the preserve while watching for alligators, river otters, wading birds and even Florida bobcats.

And then you still have your cruise to look forward to! Here's everything you need to know about sailing from Port Canaveral, Florida.

For the latest travel news, deals, and points and miles tips please subscribe to The Points Guy daily email newsletter .

Port Canaveral 445 Challenger Rd. Cape Canaveral, FL 32920

Pro tip: Cruise lines can help passengers who need wheelchair assistance from the curb to check-in and onto the ship. Call your cruise line in advance to arrange for help. Or ask your travel agent to take care of these arrangements.

Related: Best credit cards for booking a cruise

Who sails from Port Canaveral?

Port Canaveral is a homeport for only four cruise lines but they are the four that really count for families and budget-conscious travelers: Carnival Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean International, Norwegian Cruise Line and Disney Cruise Line.

From Port Canaveral, you can sail three- to 15-day itineraries to places in the Bahamas as well as Eastern, Western and Southern Caribbean. In 2020, Carnival's Mardi Gras, Breeze, Elation, Liberty and Radiance sail from this port. Royal Caribbean's sailings are on the Harmony of the Seas and Mariner of the Seas. Norwegian homeports two ships here: Norwegian Breakaway and Norwegian Sun. (Norwegian Escape also sails from this port part of the year.) Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy sail from here.

Here are the ships sailing from terminals A and B. (Note: All addresses are in Cape Canaveral, Florida 32920.)

A Terminals

• Cruise Terminal 1: Royal Caribbean's Harmony of the Seas and Mariner of the Seas (9050 Discovery Rd.)
• Cruise Terminal 3 (also known as The Launch Pad): Carnival Mardi Gras and Carnival Liberty (32 George King Blvd.)

B Terminals

• Cruise Terminal 5: Carnival Elation (9245 Charles M. Rowland Drive)
• Cruise Terminal 6: Carnival Breeze, Carnival Elation, Carnival Liberty and Carnival Radiance (9241 Charles M. Rowland Drive)
• Cruise Terminal 8: Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy (9155 Charles M. Rowland Drive)
• Cruise Terminal 10: Norwegian Breakaway, Norwegian Escape, Norwegian Sun (9005 Charles M. Rowland Drive)

Note: Although it's not the same cruise ship experience, Victory Casino Cruises also homeports here and offers gaming cruises twice daily.

Related: 10 things no one tells you about Orlando

Nearest airports

For cruising out of Port Canaveral, most people fly into Orlando International Airport (MCO) , which is about 45 minutes by car from the cruise terminal. It's the closest airport to the terminal with the most flights from gateways across America.

Airlines that serve MCO include Alaska Airlines, American, Delta, Frontier, JetBlue, Silver Airways, Southwest, Spirit, Sun Country, Sunwing and United.

The number of airlines offers plenty of potential for a good deal on airfare.

You can use the companion certificates that the Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® credit card ( how to use Alaska's companion fare ) offers as well as several Delta cobranded credit cards .

JetBlue offers frequent flash sales, as does Delta on both cash fares and those purchased with Delta SkyMiles . Watch American's Reduced Mileage Awards to see if MCO is on the current list.

Or if you've got Southwest's Companion Pass, you can bring a friend to MCO with you for just the cost of taxes and fees. And don't forget about Frontier's Kids Fly Free and Friends Fly Free promotions.

MCO isn't your only option when it comes to flying in for a Port Canaveral cruise. Allegiant Air flies into Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB), which is 40 minutes from Port Canaveral.

If you don't mind an hour's drive and you're coming from Atlanta, Charlotte or Philadelphia, you can choose Orlando Melbourne International Airport (MLB) . It's got nonstop service from those cities on Delta and American. Or, if you're flying in from Atlanta, Charlotte, Orlando-MCO, Detroit, New York LaGuardia or St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport, you can fly nonstop to Daytona Beach International Airport (DAB) on Delta, American or Sunwing.

Related: Best airline credit cards

How to get to the port

Cruise line transfers.

Purchasing a transfer from your cruise line is an easy way to get from the airport to the cruise terminal (or your hotel). However, transfers are often only for cruisers who've purchased airfare from the cruise line. Call your cruise line to inquire about purchasing transfers. Carnival Cruise Line sells transfers from MCO and MLB airports to Port Canaveral and back. The per-person, one-way prices are $35.99 and $39.99, respectively.

Hotel shuttles

If you plan to stay near the airport the night before your cruise, you'll find plenty of hotels that offer free shuttle pickup service from the airport. But because of the distance from the airports to Port Canaveral, you won't find free shuttles to the cruise terminal (there are some paid options). For free airport transfers, you need to stay at a hotel close to Port Canaveral.

There are also points hotels offering paid shuttle service to Port Canaveral. They include:

• Homewood Suites by Hilton Cape Canaveral Cocoa Beach: 40k Hilton Honors points per night; $6 per person shuttle to the port; a park-and-cruise package includes on-site parking and round-trip shuttle transfers to the port
• Hampton Inn Cocoa Beach/Cape Canaveral: 44k–50k Hilton Honors points per night; $7 per person shuttle to the port ($12 round-trip)
• Residence Inn Cape Canaveral Cocoa Beach: 35k Marriott Bonvoy points per night on standard dates (Category 5); $8 per person shuttle to the port plus discounted long-term parking if you want to leave your car in the parking lot during your cruise
• Radisson Resort at the Port: From 38k Radisson Rewards points per night; $6 per person shuttle to Port Canaveral (kids 6 and under are free); there is also a Cruise & Park package for those driving in the day before a cruise

GoPort is an interesting option for transport, hotel and parking packages that dovetail with your Port Canaveral cruise. It's available for travelers flying into and out of MCO, SFB and MLB as well as those driving into the Port Canaveral area the day before their cruise. Select from two options: Fly Snooze Cruise, which includes airport transportation, hotel accommodations and transfer to the cruise terminal, and Snooze Park Cruise which packages hotel accommodations and cruise parking in one price.

Independent van and car services

From MCO, there are several shuttle services, including Busy Traveler Transportation , Cocoa Beach Shuttle, Melbourne Airport Express (also out of MLB) and Mears . To get an idea of price, we asked for a quote on a one-way trip from MCO to Disney Cruise Line at Port Canaveral. A luxury sedan for a family of four cost $160. Upgrade to an SUV for $188.

There are also plenty of car services to hire. Look locally or go with Groundlink. The estimated cost from MCO to Port Canaveral is about $114 one-way for a standard vehicle that accommodates three people. Add $20 if you need a car seat for a child. A van accommodating up to 10 people priced out at $161.

Related: The ultimate guide to GroundLink's car service

Taxis and ride-hailing services

Taxis are plentiful at airports and can be a simple way to get to Port Canaveral. The one-way price from MCO is $115.

Uber and Lyft operate out of MCO, MLB, SFB and DAB. An UberX ride from MCO Airport to the port costs about $62. The ride from Orlando Melbourne airport costs about $75. You're looking at about $83 from SFB and $119 from Daytona Beach airport.

Related: Best credit cards for Uber

Public transportation

There are a few ways to arrive at Port Canaveral via public transportation but none of them are attractive. Amtrak's Silver Service (New York-Washington, D.C.-Charleston-Savannah-Jacksonville) stops at the Auto Train Station in Sanford, Florida, about an hour from Port Canaveral. Take a taxi or Uber from there.

You could also theoretically take a Greyhound bus to the area but the closest station is in Titusville, about 25 miles from the port. Not a great solution.

Port parking

Each cruise terminal has plenty of parking. CT1 has 1,007 covered spaces and CT3 has 1,800 covered spaces. CT5 has a brand-new garage with a covered walkway on the second floor that brings passengers directly into the terminal. CT6 is a covered parking garage right next to where your ship docks.

Note that CT8's 1,000-space parking garage is exclusively for Disney Cruise Line guests. CT10's parking was recently upgraded so you can pick between outdoor parking or a six-level parking garage.

You can pay for parking with credit cards from American Express, Visa, Mastercard and Discover.

Tip: Parking is free in certain cases. If you have a disability and a vehicle equipped with ramps, lifts, foot or hand controls, parking is complimentary. That also holds true if you have a Florida Toll Exemption permit or a Florida Disabled Veteran license plate.

Parking rates are as follows:

Cruise Terminal 8 for Disney Cruise Line is considered "Preferred Parking," so you'll pay $20 more than the standard rates listed above.

Parking at Port Canaveral is the most convenient, but you can save a few bucks by parking in nearby lots, like Park Port Canaveral ($10.95/day), Canaveral Cruise Parking ($8.95/day; also rents mobility scooters), Cruisetime Parking ($8/day), 528 Parking ($8.70/day) or Park N Cruise ($10.95/day).

Each of these lots offers free shuttles to Port Canaveral (at some lots, though, there may be a charge of a few dollars for more than five passengers in one car). And look online for promo codes that can reduce the costs even more.

Related: How to book a cruise using points and miles

Where to stay near the port

You've got a lot of options when it comes to booking a pre-cruise overnight hotel. You can choose to stay near whichever airport you flew into, book an Orlando resort for the night or head to the Cape Canaveral/Cocoa Beach area and stay there. Here are three options near the port:

Hotel closest to the port

If the distance to the port is your No. 1 concern, Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Port Canaveral, Florida , is your best bet. It's about three miles, or a six-minute drive, from Norwegian's cruise terminal.

Rooms have a microwave and a fridge. Book a cruise parking and shuttle package so you can leave your vehicle at the hotel during your voyage. Double rooms feature two queen beds -- a bonus over hotels that only offer double beds, a less-than-family-friendly arrangement.

The hotel also offers a free hot breakfast (such as make-your-own waffles), Wi-Fi, cookies, coffee and tea.

Related: How to get free hotel breakfast

Stay on the cheap

There are plenty of inexpensive places to stay near the port, including Days Inn by Wyndham Cocoa Cruiseport West at I-95/524 . We've seen rates around $60 to $95 per night there and that includes free Wi-Fi and a hot breakfast. It won't be anything special, but it will give you somewhere to sleep the night before a cruise. The hotel is a 25-minute drive to the port and the Days Inn offers a shuttle.

With cash rates this low, you probably wouldn't want to use your Wyndham Rewards points but you could if you're flush with them. A night's stay costs 15,000 points.

Full-service hotel

There aren't any swanky luxury hotels nearby. Near the port, your best option is the Hilton Cocoa Beach Oceanfront (47,000 to 50,000 Hilton Honors points per night). It's a full-service property with a restaurant, bar, beach grill and coffee shop so no matter what time you arrive, you should be able to grab a meal or a snack. The hotel is on the beach and many rooms have beautiful views. It's a 15- to 20-minute drive to Port Canaveral.

Where to shop near the port

If you need to pick up last-minute items before embarkation, there are a few stores nearby. At the cruise terminal, you'll find the Seaman Centre Port Canaveral supermarket. It's mainly designed for crew but you can get a toothbrush or snacks for your cabin. It's about a three-minute walk from Cruise Terminal 5 and seven minutes from Cruise Terminal 6.

Closer to Terminal 1, look for Sunrise Marina, which has a bait-and-tackle shop that also sells some clothing, sandals and sunglasses, plus souvenirs.

If you need to do a lot of shopping, drive to Merritt Square Mall (777 E Merritt Island Causeway, Merritt Island) or Walmart (1500 E Merritt Island Causeway, Merritt Island). Both shopping centers are about 20 minutes from the port.

Where to eat

If you're sailing out of Terminal 1, Royal Caribbean's terminal, you can walk to a few waterfront restaurants, including Grills Seafood Deck & Tiki Bar (500 Glen Cheek Drive, Cape Canaveral). It's fun to sit on the deck with your cruise ship docked nearby. The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. At lunch and dinner, expect specialties like tuna poke, fried shrimp and fish, jalapeño poppers, chowder and more. Plus, if you want to learn about the lionfish invasion of Florida's waters, Grills can fill you in and serve it to you as well.

Fishlips Waterfront Bar & Grill (610 Glen Cheek Drive) is also walking distance (5-10 minutes) from Cruise Terminal 1. It's open daily for lunch and dinner plus brunch on Sundays. Similar to Grills, Fishlips features a seafood menu with things like lobster bisque, spicy gumbo, shark bites, peel-n-eat shrimp, wings and more. The baked lobster dinner and fried seafood combo platter are especially popular.

Two additional restaurants within the port complex are Rising Tide Tap & Table (523 Glen Cheek Drive), across from Exploration Tower (more on that below), for pizzas, salads, burgers and sandwiches, and Rusty's Seafood & Oyster Bar, the place for Alaskan king crab legs and Key lime pie (628 Glen Cheek Drive). Both are open for lunch and dinner and are closest to Terminal 1.

Sights to see

There are a few tourist attractions near the port and some that are a short drive away. Here are a few spots that should be on your must-visit list.

Exploration Tower

Head to the indoor and outdoor observation decks at Exploration Tower (670 Dave Nisbet Drive, Port Canaveral) for panoramic views of the cruise port, Kennedy Space Center and Cape Canaveral. In addition to a cafe and gift shop on the first floor, the tower has exhibits about the port and Florida's environment on each floor. There's even a fun interactive experience where you can "pilot" a cruise ship into Canaveral Harbor.

Exploration Tower is an incredible place to be during rocket launches. Check the website for VIP rocket launch viewing tickets . General admission is $6.50 for adults, $4 for seniors or members of the military, and $3.75 for kids 3-10. Parking is free.

Manatee Sanctuary Park

This lovely 10-acre riverfront park is located at 701 Thurm Blvd., Cape Canaveral (about six minutes from the port). It's got a boardwalk (you can see cruise ships in the distance from the path), a half-mile walking trail, a playground, 10 exercise stations, horseshoe pits, bike-share station, picnic tables and viewing platforms from which you can look for manatees in the Banana River. There's no guarantee that you'll see one but it's a good place to try if you don't want to drive up to Merritt Island Wildlife Refuge. The sunset views from the park are spectacular.

Kennedy Space Center

If you've got a few hours or an entire day, Kennedy Space Center (Space Commerce Way, Merritt Island) is worth the visit. It's about a 25-minute drive from Port Canaveral. Through exhibits, rides and interactive experiences, you'll learn about America's space program. You can even have lunch with an astronaut (for an extra fee). If you go, check out Space Shuttle Atlantis as well as the Rocket Garden and Kennedy Space Center bus tour.

Admission is $57 per person for those 12 and older, $50 for seniors and military personnel, and $47 for kids 3–11.

Related: Why Florida's Space Coast is just the break you need from the theme parks

Cocoa Beach

If you're old enough to remember "I Dream of Jeannie," you probably remember that Cocoa Beach was the home of Jeannie and her astronaut love interest. Cocoa Beach isn't actually one beach but consists of a string of beaches that range 72 miles along the Atlantic Coast.

Here are just a few of the Cocoa Beach beaches you can visit (from north to south). Jetty Park and Cheri Down Park are closest to Port Canaveral.

• Canaveral National Seashore, Playalinda Beach -- secluded beachfront on a barrier island
• Jetty Park at Port Canaveral -- three acres of beach featuring the 1,500-foot Malcome E. McLouth Fishing Pier plus covered pavilions, picnic tables, showers and restrooms (you can rent chairs, umbrellas, kayaks and boogie boards from vendors on the beach)
• Cherie Down Park -- 200-foot boardwalk along the dunes
• Cocoa Beach Pier -- great for surfing and there are some restaurants and shops on the pier
• Alan Shepard Park -- five-acre oceanfront park with picnic areas and a bathhouse
• Sidney Fischer Park -- 10-acre oceanfront park that's a hit with families because of the picnic pavilions, showers and restrooms

Orlando's theme parks

The major theme parks are further afield, but you probably are flying into Orlando anyway, so why not spend a few days exploring them? We are especially fond of:

• Walt Disney World -- Don't miss the new Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge.
• Universal Orlando -- Enter the ever-popular Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
• Legoland Florida -- It has new rides and themed rooms at its hotel.

Related: 16 reasons to stay at a Walt Disney World Resort property

Bottom line

Cruising out of Port Canaveral can be an excellent value since you can often find terrific flight deals to MCO and hotels in the Port Canaveral area that are reasonably priced. Four of the industry's most popular cruises lines -- Carnival, Disney Cruise Line, Norwegian and Royal Caribbean -- sail from the port. Take a look at the available itineraries and we bet you'll be booking a cruise soon!

Port Canaveral Guide

A Guide to Port Canaveral Cruise Port Terminals

While the nearby Port Miami boasts global popularity, Port Canaveral is not without its charm.

It has some of the busiest terminals, seeing more than four million passengers passing through them every year.

You will find cruise lines, such as Royal Caribbean International, Disney, and Carnival, offering services from there.

Port Canaveral’s strategic location is what makes it perfect for starting a cruise holiday. It sits an hour East of Orlando , with the towns of Titusville and Cocoa Beach not too far away. So, you can be sure of finding plenty to see and do.

If you are looking for an adventure-filled getaway, then cruising from Orlando is your best option. The region, fondly referred to as the Space Coast, offers a plethora of activities to include in your itinerary.

It has miles of exquisite shorelines, the Kennedy Space Center and theme parks. With such attractions, the destination is perfect for different types of vacations. You can visit the region solo, as a couple on a romantic trip, or with children for fun family time.

Cape Canaveral’s perfect climate means you can enjoy many activities all year. Whether it’s your first cruise or not, Port Canaveral gives you many reasons to begin your journey here.

Learn how to plan your Port Canaveral cruise with tips from this guide. Find information about everything, from how to get around to accommodation ideas in the area.

Read also : The Best Hotels near Cape Canaveral Port with Shuttle

Port Canaveral in Florida Port Canaveral Cruise Terminals Getting to Port Canaveral Cruise Port Parking Best Time to Visit & Cruise Where to stay near the port Sights to See

Cape Canaveral Cruise Terminals

Royal Caribbean uses terminals 1, 5 and 6 while Carnival Cruises leave from terminals 3 and 6. Disney operates from terminal 8 and MSC and Norwegian depart mostly from terminal 10.

Port Canaveral has several cruise terminals and they are:

A Terminals (North Side) – Exit 54A

• Cruise Terminal #5 – 9245 Charles Rowland Dr.
• Cruise Terminal #6 – 9241 Charles Rowland Dr.
• Cruise Terminal #8 – 9155 Charles Rowland Dr.
• Cruise Terminal #10 – 9005 Charles Rowland Dr.

B Terminals (South Side) – Exit 54B

• Cruise Terminal #1 – 9050 Discovery Rd.
• Cruise Terminal #2 – 180 Christopher Columbus Dr.
• Cruise Terminal #3 – 220 Christopher Columbus Dr.

Getting to Port Canaveral and The Nearest Airports

Knowing how to get to the destination makes planning less complicated. You also save time when you don’t have to look for transportation options at the last minute. This section highlights some alternatives available to get in and around the port.

Orlando International Airport (MCO) is the area’s main airport within easy reach of the cruise port and one of the busiest in the world. It is a top choice for cruisers. The time it takes from the airport to the port is approximately 45 minutes.

State Road 528 or the Beachline Expressway, is the road to take when going to the port from the airport. Note that the expressway is a toll road whose charges depend on your entry and exit point.

The closest airport is Melbourne International Airport , approx 28 miles from the port. Other options include Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB) 61 miles from Port Canaveral and Daytona Beach International Airport (DAB), located around 73 miles from the cruise terminals.

Whether you arrive early or on the day of determines the best transportation modes. We highlight a few below from Orlando International Airport.

Cruise line transfers or shuttles

If you land at the airport on cruise day, the cruise line shuttle service might be your best solution.

Cruise lines have shuttle services that take passengers straight from the airport to the terminal. So, you can count on catching your ship. However, this transport method is expensive, which is why you should consider it only when necessary.

Independent Shuttles

You can opt to use one of the private shuttle services in the area to get around or to get to the port.

Several companies operate shuttles in the city. A good number of them do pick-ups at the airport, but you can find others that get passengers from other locations. Therefore, you can plan your day according to shuttle availability. Independent shuttles are cheaper and reliable.

Check fares for Private Transportation to Cruise Port from Orlando

Hotel Shuttles

You can use a hotel shuttle service if you are staying around the area before your cruise. This service is typically available when coming or leaving.

Hotels can arrange your transportation from the airport to the hotel and later to the terminal. The shuttle from your hotel to Port Canaveral won’t cost you much.

Other Options

If the above means of transport don’t meet your needs, you can consider a few others.

Ride-share services such as Lyft and Uber are examples. You get privacy and convenience, but it will cost you. A taxi serves the same purpose. Renting a car is another practical solution.

A generous number of parking lots serve Port Canaveral, given how busy it gets. Each terminal has a parking space to ease accessibility. After leaving your vehicle, you only have to walk a short distance to the ship.

Hence, if you are driving, the official cruise parking is the most convenient alternative. A flat fee applies to official parking. At the time of writing, the rate is $17 per day. However, if your vehicle is big, it might cost you a daily charge of $29.

Accessibility parking is present in every terminal. If you have special equipment in your vehicle, such as a wheelchair ramp, then you are exempt from parking fees.

Another parking solution is independent lots . You can choose to leave your car in one of the private spaces near the port. Since some of these locations are not too close to the terminals, they provide shuttle services.

Therefore, don’t concern yourself about how you will get to your ship. The appeal of independent parking is low cost. You can pay as little as $10 a day for parking.

Hotels in the cruise town are quick to offer parking spaces to guests . Some places can throw in free parking when you book a stay, while others can include an extra charge.

Best Time to Visit and Cruise from Port Canaveral?

Expect pleasant weather year-round at the Space Coast . It’s why the region attracts tourists throughout. Summer is the best time to go on a cruise. Before sailing away, you can enjoy time at the beach.

From May to the last week of September is the hottest period here. Temperatures drop from December to the start of March. Winters in Cape Canaveral come with little to no rainfall, so you don’t have to worry about rough weather. March to May is peak season. The calm and warm weather makes this time perfect to visit the cruise port.

Late summer to fall is the off-peak cruising season. It’s the best time to land generous deals from cruise lines and other services. You can slash a decent sum off your vacation budget by capitalizing on discounts.

Besides off-peak season, watch out for the last-minute rush when cruise lines are scrambling to fill seats. You can book a great cruise at low prices by waiting until this time. The wave season, which is between January and March, is another period with big sales.

Where to Stay Near the Port?

Being one of the busiest cruise ports, Port Canaveral caters to a wide category of accommodation demands. The region around the port, the airport and nearby towns have hotels for all budgets.

So, you need not worry about finding the right place to stay . Your specific requirements will determine where to stay. For example, if you arrive a couple of days before your cruise, then you might opt to stay near the port to see the sights and be close enough when it’s time to leave.

The following are some options to look into when planning your accommodation.

1. Cape Canaveral (Closest to Port)

The city that houses the cruise port sits on Florida’s coastal region. It’s a buzzing city with an array of restaurants, bars, and entertainment spots. So, you won’t run out of things to do if you will be around for a few days. Resting just south of the port, Cape Canaveral has the region’s biggest hotels. Shuttle services are some of the offerings available for cruise passengers at hotels in the city.

• Radisson Resort • Hampton Inn • Country Inn & Suites are examples

2. Cocoa Beach

The beach has more than enough accommodation choices to serve its influx of visitors throughout the year. With Banana River, the Atlantic Ocean, Crescent Beach, and Port Canaveral surrounding this destination, it’s the perfect location to spend a few days before or after a cruise. You can stay at a boutique hotel a few steps from the ocean or a luxurious suite with all amenities provided. Some options include

• Hilton Cocoa Beach Oceanfront • Homewood Suites by Hilton • Lost Inn Paradise

3. Orlando International Airport

Some cruise passengers prefer staying near the airport, especially if they arrive late. Instead of getting accommodation in the port, you can book a room at one of the several hotels close to the Orlando International Airport. It saves you the stress of driving to Cape Canaveral if you arrive a few hours or a day before the cruise. Dining and drinking spots shouldn’t be a problem with the numerous establishments around and near the airport. Hotel recommendations for this location include

• Embassy Suites Orlando • Sheraton Suites Orlando Airport Hotel • Fairfield Inn by Marriott Orlando Airport

Sights to See and Things to Do

The Florida Space provides a wide selection of attractions and activities. All you have to do is stack your itinerary with the most suitable ones for your vacation.

Because it’s a popular embarkation destination for cruises, Port Canaveral works hard to ensure people of all ages have fun while here. Whether you wish to give the kids a good time at one of the various theme parks or learn a few things about space, you have an impressive list to work with.

Whether you intend to spend a few days around the port before or after your cruise, the destination doesn’t disappoint. Here are popular ideas to consider:

1. Kennedy Space Center

Some of the most incredible activities to indulge in when in the area involve space.

After all, it’s where America’s space program lives, courtesy of the Kennedy Space Center.

Discover astronautical attractions, like shuttles from the Apollo program.

Visit exhibits that showcase how far humans have come in exploring space and the plans in store for future projects.

2. Rocket Launch Viewpoint

The Canaveral National Seashore on Playalinda Beach, the Westgate Cocoa Beach Pier, and Titusville’s US Astronaut Hall of Fame are some of the places with rocket launch observation points.

Find the most convenient location where you can combine other activities and get the most out of your vacation.

3. Cocoa Beach

Located only 20 minutes from the cruise port, Cocoa Beach is a hive of activities.

From surfing to swimming to aerial adventures, you can spend an entire day here and never get enough.

Dine at popular restaurants, hit entertainment spots to unwind, and visit the gift shops along the coastline for souvenirs.

4. Exploration Tower

Sitting right in the port, the seven-story structure houses various exhibits that tell the region’s story.

Whatever your age, it’s an awe-inspiring attraction to visit. Learn everything from the port’s origin to the complexities of cruise ship navigation.

Apart from the interactive displays, the Exploration Tower gives magnificent views of the region. You can also watch rockets launching from the observation deck.

5. Meritt Island National Wildlife Refuge

The 140,000-acre Meritt sanctuary hosts various wildlife species that you can see on your nature walk.

It has manatees, alligators, snapping turtles, bald eagles, wood storks, river otters, and dozens of other animals and plants.

A guided kayak tour allows you to encounter most species at the Meritt Island National Wildlife Refuge.

6. Manatee Sanctuary Park

The park’s location next to a manatee’s protected habitat, the Banana River, means you can see the creatures.

However, the sanctuary offers more than manatee sightings.

It’s one of the best places to get some exercise before going on a cruise or after. It has excellent fitness facilities and hiking trails.

(Latest update November 15th 2023)

Please contact us if any information is incorrect or not up-to-date.

1. www.portcanaveral.com 2. Galveston Tripadvisor 3. Hotels.com 4. viator.com

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Port Canaveral Cruise Parking (Where to Park) Options, Prices, and Map

Looking for Port Canaveral parking during your cruise? The good news is that you’ll have plenty of choice across all price ranges.

These days, Port Canaveral has turned into one of the busiest — and most popular — ports in the entire nation. Millions of passengers each year take cruises from the terminals near Orlando.

Of course, that means millions of people each year have to make their way to the port and many drive their vehicle. And since there is such a large market for a place to park, a number of lots have sprung up to offer you a spot while you enjoy your cruise.

One thing you should know — the port sits in a large complex on its own, meaning space for third-party parking lots right next to the port is sparse. However, the port does offer parking of its own at your ship, but it can be expensive.

There are other options that are more affordable, as long as you don’t mind a shuttle ride to the terminal. Most shuttles are quick trips (less than 10 minutes) and can drop you off right at the ship. Parking lots include these rides for free in their rates.

Below, we cover your parking lot options, along with details of each lot to help you find the right spot for you.

Port Canaveral Parking Options for a Cruise

Note: Most lots in the area charge parking fees for both the day you arrive and the day you leave. So if you take a 7-day cruise (e.g., departing Sunday afternoon and returning back the following Sunday morning), you will be charged for eight days of parking.

Rates below are estimated (including taxes/fees) and are subject to change. Want to save money? See our page on Port Canaveral parking discounts and coupons . 

Port Canaveral Official Parking Parking at the port is by far the most convenient. Parking lots and garages are next to each cruise terminal, making for a very short walk to check-in. For that convenience, however, you will pay a higher price — $17 per day, including both the day of arrival and departure. 

Parking is payable via credit card. Disabled parking is free of charge, if your vehicle has special equipment such as ramps or foot/hand controls, have a Florida Toll Exemption Permit, or have a Florida Disabled Veteran license plate. More details are here .

Given the proximity of the lots to the cruise terminal, we wouldn’t blame anyone for paying the higher prices. However, cheaper options are available if you’re looking to save.

• Cost: $17 per day
• Distance: At terminal
• Website: https://www.portcanaveral.com/Cruise/Cruise-Parking,-Directions-Rates

Port Parking Space The newest lot to offer cruise parking is also the closest off-port option. It’s located adjacent to port property, meaning you can be at your ship within minutes. The lot offers 24/7 on-site monitoring, included shuttle to your cruise ship, and parking that’s a sharp discount to what you’d pay at the port.

According to the lot, parking runs $12.95 per day — about 25% cheaper than parking at the port. However, they also offer discounts that can get that rate down even further to $11.66 per day (10% off). There are also military and travel agent discounts available. A handful of electric vehicle chargers are also offered at the parking lot. Note that parking for Disney ships is not offered.

• Cost: $12.95 per day, plus taxes and fees
• Distance: 0.5 miles (free shuttle provided)
• Website: https://portparkingspace.com/

Park Port Canaveral Located about three miles (5-minute drive) from the cruise terminals, Park Port Canaveral is one of your many options for off-site cruise parking. We found a daily rate of $12.85 plus tax for an advance reservation, but there are discounts available (including 15% off for signing up for their mailing list). In additional, there are additional taxes and fees you’ll have to pay, but the rate is still considerably less than parking at the port.

The lot offers a complimentary shuttle to and from the port, which is just a few minutes away. Like other lots, Park Port Canaveral charges both for the day of arrival and the day of departure.

• Cost: $12.85 per day, plus taxes and fees
• Distance: 3 miles (free shuttle provided)
• Website:  http://www.parkportcanaveral.com

Park N Cruise Port Canaveral Park N Cruise is located right before you cross the water to the port and it’s only a few miles from the terminals. The rate is $12.99 per day for most cars. Keep in mind that as with most lots you will need to pay for the day you arrive and the day you leave. All told, with taxes and fees the rate runs about $120 for a week cruise.

Looking for a discount? There are a number of specials with discounts of 5-10% for veterans, public service workers, AAA members, and AARP members.

• Cost: $12.99 per day, plus taxes and fees
• Website: https://www.parkncruiseportcanaveral.com/

GoPort The parking package from GoPort has a different spin — they don’t charge for parking but offer it free. Instead, you pay for the shuttle to the cruise port. They also currently only offer service for Carnival Mardi Gras. If you are sailing any other ship, you’ll need to find an alternative lot to park.

Rates start at $60 for up to four passengers for a weeklong Mardi Gras cruise. That comes out to $7.50 per day, or less than half what the official Port Canaveral lots charge. In other words, you save about $80 over the course of your cruise by parking here.

• Cost: $60 for a 7-day cruise (Carnival Mardi Gras only)
• Distance: 6.5 miles
• Website: https://www.goport.com/

Port Canaveral Parking Port Canaveral Parking is located on Merritt Island, just about 10 minutes from the cruise ships. It charges rates of $12.95 per day for parking, which is roughly $4 cheaper versus parking at the cruise terminals (like other lots, discounts are common , including a recent ‘flash sale’ for 24% off).

There is also covered parking available, costing an extra $20 for your stay. A shuttle is provided to the cruise port until 1:15 p.m.

• Cost: $12.95 per day ($20 extra for covered), plus taxes and fees
• Distance: 6.5 miles (free shuttle provided)
• Website: https://portcanaveralparking.com/

Cruisetime Parking and Shuttle Cruisetime is located southwest of Port Canaveral, on Merritt Island. It’s only about 8.5 miles from the port and the ride to the terminal takes about 15 minutes. Parking rates are simple — $10 per day, but that includes the day of your arrival and departure. Cruises of four days or less are a flat $50.

So it is $80 for a 7-day cruise and $50 for a four-day trip. Cruisetime also offers a complimentary shuttle to and from the port that’s included with your parking.

• Cost: $10.00 per day
• Distance: 8.5 miles (shuttle provided)
• Website: https://www.cruisetimeparking.com

Beachline Shuttle Similar to what’s offered by GoPort, Beachline Shuttle offers “no charge” parking, but you pay for the ride over to the port. Unlike GoPort, the lot offers parking for all the cruise lines meaning you can save considerably over parking at the port no matter who you sail.

Prices vary only on how many passengers are sailing. If you need a shuttle to the port for two passengers, it’s $60. Prices are $70 for three riders and $80 for four. Contact the lot if needing space for five or more passengers.

• Cost: $60 for a 7-day cruise
• Distance: 5 miles (shuttle provided)
• Website: https://www.beachlineshuttle.com

Individual Hotels   In addition to cruise parking lots, another option is parking at a hotel. Port Canaveral has lots of hotels near the port and many also offer free or discounted parking if you stay the night before your cruise. As well, they will often have a shuttle to the port on cruise day.

Note that some hotels require you to book a package to receive parking. Due to the health crisis, some packages may be paused temporarily until cruises return in full.

If you are staying in the Port Canaveral area, see our list of hotels that will allow you to park your car for the length of your cruise .

Frequently Asked Parking Questions

Is there free Port Canaveral parking? Yes, if you are disabled, then you might receive free parking at the port. For ports in Florida, cars for disabled passengers that have special equipment (like ramps, lifts, or special controls) can get free parking for their cruise .

As well, Port Canaveral’s official lots offer free parking for disabled veterans with a Florida license plate with that designation.

Where should I park? If you are driving in, your parking decision rests mainly on if you want to save money or want convenience. For those looking to save, we suggest parking at an off-site parking lot. Their rates are considerably less and you can still take the shuttle right to the cruise ship. The downside is that you have to wait for the shuttle going to and from the ship.

If you want the most convenience, check out parking at the actual port. Yes, it’s more expensive, but you can walk right to the ship. It also makes it easier to get back home when you return from your trip.

Why am I being charged for 8 days for a 7-day cruise? One thing we’ve noticed is that parking lots in the area charge an extra day for your cruise. Say you have a 7-day cruise that leaves Sunday afternoon and returns the following Sunday morning. In total, you were gone for seven full days. However, by the clock, your car was on the lot for eight different calendar days counting both the day you arrived at the parking lot and the day you depart. Even if you pick your car up first thing on Sunday morning, the parking lots charge for an additional day.

Can I park at a hotel for cheaper? Yes. As a perk to entice cruise passengers many hotels in the area have parking packages. Simply stay a night and the hotel will allow you to park your car and provide a shuttle to the port. It’s an easy way to save if you plan to stay in the area beforehand. See our list of Port Canaveral park and cruise hotels here .

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I am being dropped off for a MSC cruise. Where can my son drop me off?

Right at the terminal. Just follow the signs!

DO THE PARKING LOTS PARK THE CAR FOR YOU OR DO YOU HAVE TO RIDE AROUND AND LOOK FOR A SPOT

I just found out that GoPort is working only with Carnival Mardi Gras indefinitely so you might want to remove them from your list.

Thanks for letting us know. Will update this article with the new details soon.

You listed Canaveral cruise parking at 6.95 a day 3 miles south of the port. Where or what site do I go go to find this company. I have tried searching to no avail

This is a lot that paused operations during the pandemic. They may not have returned to business.

Are you able to park a transport truck with flatbed trailer at any lots near port. My husband is meeting me and my kids there while he is taking a break from work and will have his truck.

Given the special circumstances, I’d recommend calling the lot to see what they can do.

These numbers dont make sense. 5 day is a 4 night. so arriv monday and leave friday. 5 days times $17 is nt 102?

A five-day cruise is also five nights (cruise lines don’t count the day you arrive back in port). So a 5-day/night cruise would depart Monday (1), Tuesday (2), Wednesday (3), Thursday (4), Friday (5), arrive back in port Saturday morning.

Parking lots here charge for the day you arrive and the day you leave. The parking lot would charge you for Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. So a five-day/night cruise is charged for six days of parking. $17*6 = $102.

Just trying to find out if you have RV parking. Says you do but I cannot find any info about it

We are not a cruise parking lot; we’ve instead written an article about your options. The cruise terminal offers RV parking. If you need more details, you can call them at (321) 783-7831.

Have you heard of Port Canaveral VIP Valet? Operated by AutoCare Concierge. They offer a $99 flat rate with drop off service (your car).

Do they ever run out of spaces at the port? I ask because they don’t let you reserve a space anymore.

Not that we have ever heard of. If it were to happen (highly unlikely) there are the off-site parking lots as well.

Did I book my Parking for Sat Dec 30, 2017 ????

Mr. King, we are not the parking lot’s website. We just list the parking options.

Park n Cruise was great…prompt, polite and 1/2 the cost.

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Canaveral Port Authority Commissioners Approve Operating Agreement with Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival’s new 180,000-ton ship, first north american-based lng powered ship, will homeport at port canaveral’s new cruise terminal 3.

Port Canaveral Pushing Ahead with More Cruise Expansion

• April 16, 2024

Port Canaveral is pushing ahead with a plan to have another cruise facility in place, Cruise Terminal 4, in time for the 2026-27 season.

“It’s going to be different than any other terminal we’ve ever done,” said Captain John Murray, CEO.

“It’s going to be a Port Canaveral terminal as opposed to a terminal dedicated to any particular cruise line.

“The reason for that is that we don’t necessarily get the highest utilization out of a cruise line dominated terminal. If we control it ourselves, we get the highest utilization for that facility.”

Murray said if the terminal existed today, the port could fill it with business immediately.

“We’re at a point where we are turning away business,” he said, “and I don’t like turning away business.

“In the future we’ll be able to accommodate everyone with a new terminal. With six terminals now we’re running pretty tight.”

Terminal designs will be simplified in the future, Murray said, with guests spending less time than ever in the facilities. He also expects new technology developments for cruise line branding opportunities.

“If we have three or four different brands, we can make it their day,” he explained.

Port Canaveral is also adding 3,000 new parking spaces, which will be ready this coming October.

“We will have 16 homeported ships next season, with the addition of two new cruise lines: Princess and Celebrity,” Murray said.

“The reason we’re building 3,000 more spaces is that we’re in a drive-in market,” he continued. “Quite frequently we get a lot of cars from Texas, all the way to the east coast and up to Canada.”

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MSC Cruises Unveils New 2025 Itineraries

MSC Cruises revealed its summer 2025 itineraries for the North American market, featuring four ships sailing from U.S. homeports. Travelers can choose from various vacation options, with departures from New York City, Miami, and Port Canaveral visiting destinations in the Caribbean, Florida, The Bahamas, and Bermuda. Many itineraries include visits to MSC Cruises’ private island, Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve.

MSC Cruises will run two ships from its new terminal at PortMiami, the world’s largest. MSC World America will debut in April 2025, offering 7-night cruises to Caribbean ports. This LNG-powered ship will be the largest vessel operated by the cruise line in the U.S., providing a distinct experience for guests. Ports of call will include San Juan, Puerto Rico; Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic; Costa Maya, Cozumel; Isla de Roatan in Honduras; and Ocean Cay.

“We want our guests to experience MSC Cruises’ most modern and innovative ships, whether they’re on a quick weekend getaway or the vacation of a lifetime,” said Rubén A. Rodríguez, President, MSC Cruises USA. “The Summer 2025 season will be an exciting one for us. MSC World America will let our guests experience the future of cruising with 7-night itineraries from Miami, and we’re enhancing our short cruises from Miami with the fantastic MSC Seascape providing 3- and 4-night options. We’re especially thrilled that all four ships sailing from U.S. homeports will call at Ocean Cay, providing guests with the opportunity to experience MSC Cruises’ unique and beautiful private island in The Bahamas no matter where they embark.”

Itinerary Highlights

MSC World America  – Sailing 7-night itineraries from Miami departing on Saturdays:

• 7-night Eastern Caribbean (Puerto Plata, San Juan, Ocean Cay)
• 7-night Western Caribbean (Costa Maya, Cozumel, Isla de Roatan, Ocean Cay)

MSC Seascape  – Sailing 3-, 4- and 7-night itineraries from Miami departing on Thursdays and Sundays:

• 7-night Eastern Caribbean (Ocean Cay, Nassau, San Juan, and Puerto Plata)
• 7-night Western Caribbean (Ocean Cay, Nassau, Jamaica, Grand Cayman)
• 3- and 4-night The Bahamas (Nassau and Ocean Cay)

MSC Meraviglia  – Sailing 7-night itineraries from New York City to Florida and The Bahamas and Bermuda departing on Sundays:

• 7-night Florida and The Bahamas (Port Canaveral, Nassau, Ocean Cay)
• 7-night Bermuda (several nights at Royal Naval Dockyard)

MSC Seashore  – Sailing from Port Canaveral with a range of options departing Thursdays and Sundays:

• 7-night Western Caribbean (Cozumel, Costa Maya, Ocean Cay)

Will you be sailing with MSC Cruises on their 2025 itineraries? Let us know in the comments!

Julie Bouchner

Julie Bouchner is the Digital Editorial Manager for Porthole Cruise and Travel. She has a Master’s Degree in Journalism from Syracuse University. When she is not writing, she enjoys traveling, spending time with family, baking, and playing with her Siberian Husky named Ellie.

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Carnival Freedom's next two cruises from Port Canaveral canceled after exhaust funnel fire

A fire in the exhaust funnel of the Carnival Freedom this weekend has disrupted a cruise of the Port Canaveral-based ship for the second time in less than two years — and will mean that the ship's next two cruises are canceled.

Damage to the funnel will require the cancellation of Carnival's next two cruises out of Port Canaveral, which were scheduled to depart Monday and Friday.

Thousands of passengers with scheduled cruises will be affected by the canceled cruises during a busy spring break period for Carnival and other cruise lines.

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Carnival initially had said it expected no changes in its upcoming cruises, but on Sunday afternoon said the cancellations would be required.

"Regrettably, the damage is more than we first thought, and will require an immediate repair to stabilize the funnel, resulting in the cancellation of the March 25 and March 29 cruises from Port Canaveral," according to a statement issued by Matt Lupoli, Carnival Cruise Line's senior manager of public relations. "The funnel has been stabilized for the ship’s return to Port Canaveral overnight to disembark guests, and then it will go to the Freeport shipyard on Monday afternoon to begin the required repairs."

Carnival said it made the decision after "our technical team completed a thorough assessment" during the ship’s visit Sunday to Freeport in the Bahamas.

In the statement, Carnival said: "We sincerely regret the impact to our embarking guests, as we know they have been looking forward to their spring break vacation. We are providing all guests on both canceled cruises a full refund and a 100% future cruise credit, so they can come back and enjoy a future cruise with us. We also greatly appreciate the terrific guests who are currently sailing with us, for their outstanding cooperation and support."

In a Facebook post, Carnival's widely followed brand ambassador, John Heald, conceded that many people who booked one of the canceled cruises are "feeling very disappointed," and he apologized for the turn of events.

But, Heald added that he wanted to assure affected passengers that, "when you rebook, using your full refund and your 100% future cruise credit, that the crew will be standing by to give you all the fun you deserve."

More than 500 people responded to the post, with many saying they thought Carnival was generous with the compensation offer. But some people who said they were on the cruise that experienced the fire said they thought Carnival should have done more for the people who were on the ship.

Carnival said the fire was confined to the funnel area. The cruise line said there are no reports of injuries to passengers. Two firefighting crew members were treated for minor smoke inhalation.

Carnival said that, at about 3:15 p.m. Saturday, the Carnival Freedom reported a fire on the port side of the ship’s exhaust funnel. The ship was 20 miles off Eleuthera Island, Bahamas, heading to Freeport after a canceled call to the Carnival private island of Princess Cay due to adverse weather.

Details of previous fire: Fire breaks out on Carnival Freedom while Port Canaveral-based ship was in Grand Turk

"The ship’s fire response team was quickly activated, and the ship’s captain also turned the vessel towards the heavy rain in the area to maximize the efforts to put out the flames," an earlier Carnival statement said. "Eyewitnesses reported the possibility of a lightning strike, and that is being investigated, but cannot yet be confirmed."

By 5:20 p.m. Saturday, the fire was extinguished. 

Carnival said the ship's captain made multiple announcements to passengers and crew, and advised all but essential safety personnel to stay away from balconies and all open decks. 

The port-side portion of the funnel had fallen onto Deck 10, and the firefighting response put out any flames. 

The U.S. Coast Guard has been notified of the fire, and Carnival activated its incident response team to support the ship’s crew. 

Carnival said there were no other operational issues with the ship’s systems, and the ship, which was on a four-night cruise, was visiting Freeport on Sunday.

The Freedom sailed into the channel at Port Canaveral around 7:30 a.m. Monday, and docked at Cruise Terminal 6, letting off the passengers who were on the cruise. Carnival then awaited a Coast Guard inspection of the ship before it could be cleared to leave Port Canaveral for the Freeport shipyard for repairs. The ship left the port about 6:20 p.m.

A cruise ship funnel generally serves as a smokestack to lift emissions above the deck, thus away from passengers and crew.

On Saturday evening, "Carnival Freedom guests enjoyed the Elegant Night dinner as planned, and, with the exception of the open decks, all areas of the ship are fully functioning," Carnival said in its statement. 

The sailing had about 3,700 passengers onboard. And the two upcoming sailings that were canceled each likely would have had a similar passenger count, because this is a busy time for the cruise industry.

The Carnival Freedom's next voyage was scheduled to depart from Port Canaveral on Monday afternoon on a five-night Eastern Caribbean cruise. That cruise had port-of-call stops scheduled at Amber Cove in the Dominican Republic and at Grand Turk Island in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

But that sailing and a Friday sailing both have been canceled. Friday's five-night sailing also was scheduled to stop at those two ports of call, but in reverse order.

In May 2022, a fire broke out in the funnel area of the Carnival Freedom while it was docked in Grand Turk. Carnival then canceled three scheduled sailings of the Carnival Freedom out of Port Canaveral because of the need to repair the ship's fire damage at a shipyard in Grand Bahama.

More recently, in October 2023, the Carnival Freedom debuted a new iconic winged funnel after returning from a 16-day dry-dock refurbishment in Cadiz, Spain.

Dave Berman is business editor at  FLORIDA TODAY.  Contact Berman at  [email protected] , on X at  @bydaveberman  and on Facebook at  www.facebook.com/dave.berman.54

This article originally appeared on Florida Today: Carnival Freedom's next two cruises from Port Canaveral canceled after exhaust funnel fire

Home » Cruise » MSC Cruises » MSC Cruises Announces 2025 Itineraries for North America

MSC Cruises Announces 2025 Itineraries for North America

MSC Cruises announces its lineup of summer 2025 itineraries for North America, with four ships sailing from U.S. homeports.

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MSC Cruises  announces its lineup of summer 2025 itineraries for North America, with four ships sailing from U.S. homeports. Departing from New York City, Miami, and Port Canaveral, these itineraries will call on popular destinations in the sun-soaked Caribbean, Florida, The Bahamas, and Bermuda, with most itineraries including stops at the cruise line’s private island – Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve.

Rubén A. Rodríguez, President, MSC Cruises USA, said:  “We want our guests to experience MSC Cruises’ most modern and innovative ships, whether they’re on a quick weekend getaway or the vacation of a lifetime. The Summer 2025 season will be an exciting one for us. MSC World America will let our guests experience the future of cruising with 7-night itineraries from Miami, and we’re enhancing our short cruises from Miami with the fantastic MSC Seascape providing 3- and 4-night options. We’re especially thrilled that all four ships sailing from U.S. homeports will call at Ocean Cay, providing guests with the opportunity to experience MSC Cruises’ unique and beautiful private island in The Bahamas no matter where they embark.”

Ships Sailing from PortMiami

MSC Cruises will have two ships sailing from its terminal at PortMiami—set to be the world’s largest. Miami’s newest megaship,  MSC World America  will be embarking on her inaugural season in April 2025. As the second in MSC Cruises’ World Class, the ship will be MSC’s largest U.S.-based vessel.

MSC World America  will offer 7-night sailings departing on Saturdays to both the Eastern and Western Caribbean. Ports include San Juan, Puerto Rico; Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic; Costa Maya and Cozumel, Mexico; Roatan, Honduras; and Ocean Cay, Bahamas.

MSC Seascape will also call the new PortMiami terminal home. She will offer a mix of 7-night itineraries in the Eastern and Western Caribbean along with new 3- and 4-night sailings to The Bahamas and Ocean Cay.

This marks the first time a Seaside EVO Class ship will offer short cruises from Miami. Select 3- and 4-night itineraries will stay overnight at Ocean Cay, giving guests more time to enjoy the cruise line’s private island with activities including a sunset champagne cruise, beachside stargazing, and a lighthouse LED show.

New York Sailings

MSC Meraviglia will offer guests 7-night itineraries from New York City to Florida and The Bahamas. Notable stops include Port Canaveral (Florida), Nassau and Ocean Cay (The Bahamas).

Additionally, pink sand beaches await guests on 6- and 7-night itineraries to Bermuda. Guests will love spending several nights at the Royal Naval Dockyard with ample time to explore the island’s unique blend of cultures.

Port Canaveral Sailings

From Port Canaveral,  MSC Seashore  will sail a range of itinerary options, including 3- and 4-night escapes to The Bahamas. Some of the ship’s 7-night itineraries start out with two days at Ocean Cay followed by stops in Cozumel and Costa Maya.

Itinerary Highlights:

• MSC World America  – Sailing 7-night itineraries from Miami departing on Saturdays to the Eastern and Western Caribbean.
• MSC Seascape  – Sailing 3-, 4- and 7-night itineraries from Miami departing on Thursdays and Sundays. Itineraries visit popular ports in the Eastern Caribbean, Western Caribbean, and The Bahamas.
• MSC Meraviglia  – Sailing 7-night itineraries from New York City to Florida and The Bahamas or Bermuda departing on Sundays.
• MSC Seashore  – Sailing from Port Canaveral with a range of options departing Thursdays and Sundays. Itineraries include 3- and 4-night sailings to The Bahamas and 7-night sailings to the Western Caribbean.

Are you happy to hear that MSC Cruises announces its 2025 itineraries for North America? Do you have plans to cruise on the new World America when she debuts? Drop us an anchor below to share what you love about MSC Cruises.

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DB & The Princess

Welcome Aboard! We are Don and Heidi, the husband and wife travel team behind EatSleepCruise.com. We took our first cruise vacation together 13 years ago and have been hooked ever since. Follow along as we share our travel tips, cruise reviews, information on ports of call, and the latest cruise news to help you plan the ultimate cruise vacation. Are you ready to embark on your journey to “sea the world, one port at a time”?

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