Cruises from Port Canaveral, Florida
Port Canaveral is one of Florida's premier cruise departure points, offering a relaxed coastal setting with easy access to some of the state's most famous attractions. Located about 45 minutes from Orlando International Airport, the port is conveniently connected for travelers flying in from across the country.
Cruises from Port Canaveral are a great way to explore the world with top cruise lines. Disney Cruise Line is a popular choice for families looking to combine a Disney theme park vacation with a cruise. Royal Caribbean, Carnival, and Norwegian also offer a variety of itineraries, from quick getaways to the Bahamas to longer voyages through the Caribbean.
Many visitors extend their trip to experience the area's attractions. The surf town of Cocoa Beach is just minutes away, and the Kennedy Space Center offers an unforgettable look at NASA's history and future missions. For even more fun, Orlando's world-class theme parks are only an hour's drive from the port.
From Port Canaveral, ships sail to sun-drenched destinations across the Caribbean and the Bahamas, with popular stops including Cozumel, Nassau, and St. Maarten. With its unique blend of family-friendly attractions, coastal charm, and diverse itineraries, Port Canaveral is an ideal starting point for your next adventure at sea.
Popular Cruises From Port Canaveral
Find Cruises out of Port Canaveral in 2025 & 2026Search Port Canaveral Cruises by Month:
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All Sailings By Month | $164 | $178 | $211 | $304 | $367 | $368 | $497 | $464 | $334 | $299 | $236 | $277 | $272 | $311 | $331 | $354 | $341 | $367 | $460 | $447 | $330 | $317 | $317 | $334 | $404 | $324 | $334 | $369 | $409 | |||||||
| Bahamas | $164 | $178 | $211 | $304 | $367 | $368 | $497 | $464 | $334 | $299 | $236 | $277 | $272 | $311 | $331 | $354 | $341 | $367 | $460 | $447 | $330 | $317 | $317 | $334 | $404 | $324 | $334 | $369 | $409 | |||||||
| Caribbean | $244 | $334 | $294 | $408 | $424 | $514 | $719 | $624 | $449 | $434 | $444 | $399 | $429 | $434 | $444 | $458 | $449 | $659 | $750 | $850 | $694 | $580 | $600 | $654 | $634 | $624 | $684 | $734 | $724 | |||||||
| Panama Canal | $2,000 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Trans Atlantic Cruises | $889 | $759 | $624 | $1,350 | $903 |
Top Cruise Destinations From Port Canaveral
Port Canaveral is the ideal starting point for quick escapes to the Bahamas. Cruises from here often visit popular spots like Nassau and Freeport, where travelers can enjoy stunning white-sand beaches, vibrant local markets, and rich island culture. Many itineraries also include stops at private islands such as Disney's Castaway Cay or Royal Caribbean's Perfect Day at CocoCay, offering a perfect blend of relaxation, water sports, and family fun. These shorter sailings are perfect for first-time cruisers or anyone looking for a quick, refreshing getaway.
View Bahamas CruisesDeparting from Port Canaveral, an Eastern Caribbean cruise opens the door to some of the region's most iconic islands. St. Thomas invites visitors with its sapphire waters and duty-free shopping, while St. Maarten offers a blend of French and Dutch influences. Sailings may also stop in Puerto Rico or the British Virgin Islands, where culture, history, and scenic beauty come together for an unforgettable journey.
View Eastern Caribbean CruisesWestern Caribbean itineraries from Port Canaveral combine natural wonders, ancient history, and laid-back beach days. Cozumel is a gateway to Mayan ruins and world-class snorkeling, while Grand Cayman is known for its famous Seven Mile Beach and stunning turquoise waters. Stops in Jamaica and Roatan add a mix of tropical scenery, adventure tours, and local flavor, making this route a favorite for travelers seeking relaxation and exploration.
View Western Caribbean CruisesThings To Do And See In Port Canaveral
A visit to the Kennedy Space Center is an unforgettable experience that blends science, history, and adventure. Here, visitors can stand beneath the towering Saturn V rocket, come face-to-face with the Space Shuttle Atlantis, and learn about NASA's past, present, and future missions. Interactive exhibits, astronaut encounters, and immersive simulators make the center both educational and exciting. On certain days, you might even witness a rocket launch, a thrilling reminder that space exploration is alive and well on Florida's Space Coast.
Just minutes from Port Canaveral, Cocoa Beach is the quintessential Florida beach town. Known for its soft, golden sand and gentle waves, it's a favorite spot for surfing, swimming, and relaxing under the sun. The Cocoa Beach Pier stretches out into the Atlantic, lined with lively restaurants and bars perfect for sampling fresh seafood or sipping tropical cocktails. The town's surf shops, including the world-famous Ron Jon Surf Shop, add to its laid-back coastal vibe, making it an ideal stop before or after your cruise.
For a more tranquil escape, Manatee Sanctuary Park offers a peaceful slice of nature near the cruise terminals. Walking trails wind along the Indian River Lagoon, where visitors may spot gentle manatees grazing in the warm waters. Shaded picnic areas, butterfly gardens, and lush palm trees create a relaxing environment, while educational signs provide insights into the area's wildlife and conservation efforts. It's a serene setting to stretch your legs, enjoy the outdoors, and connect with Florida's natural beauty before or after your cruise.
For a classic Florida experience, Jetty Park is a must-visit. This 35-acre park is a beloved spot for locals and visitors alike, offering a wide, pristine beach perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and even surfing. Its 1,200-foot-long fishing pier is a popular spot for anglers and for those who simply want to watch the magnificent cruise ships sail in and out of the port. With shaded picnic areas, a family-friendly atmosphere, and a clear view of rocket launches, Jetty Park provides a unique blend of relaxation and excitement right at the port's doorstep.
Port Canaveral Shore Excursions
Cruises From Port Canaveral FAQs
The most convenient and busiest airport for cruisers is Orlando International Airport (MCO), located about 45 minutes away. Other nearby options include Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB) and Melbourne International Airport (MLB), though there are fewer flight options.
Travelers have several reliable choices. Private shuttle services (like Port Canaveral Shuttle, Go Port, or Happy Limo) are a popular and affordable option, providing direct, scheduled transportation. Ride-sharing services are readily available and can be a cost-effective choice for smaller groups. For families or those who want flexibility, a rental car is an excellent option, allowing you to explore the local area before or after your cruise. Many hotels also offer "Fly, Snooze, Cruise" packages that include airport pickup and port drop-off.
Port Canaveral offers secure, multi-level parking garages and surface lots directly adjacent to each cruise terminal. This is the most convenient option, with rates typically ranging from $17 to $22 per day (rates are subject to change, so always check the official Port Canaveral website). For a more budget-friendly choice, several off-site parking lots are available. They are generally less expensive and provide a complimentary shuttle service to and from the cruise terminal.
It is highly recommended to arrive in the Port Canaveral/Orlando area a day before your cruise departure, especially if you are flying in. On embarkation day, you should arrive during the specific check-in window assigned by your cruise line. The main parking lots at the port typically open around 10:00 AM.
For "closed-loop" cruises that start and end at Port Canaveral, U.S. citizens can often board with just a government-issued photo ID and an original or certified copy of their birth certificate. However, a valid U.S. passport is strongly recommended for identification. A passport simplifies the check-in process and is essential if you need to fly home from a foreign country in the event of an emergency. Non-U.S. citizens must have a valid passport and, if required, a visa.
Cruise lines generally allow you to check two or more large suitcases with a porter at the terminal. These bags will be delivered directly to your stateroom. However, you should also pack a smaller carry-on bag with essentials such as travel documents, medications, a change of clothes, and a swimsuit, as your checked luggage may not arrive at your cabin until later in the day.
The policy on bringing outside food and drinks varies by cruise line, so it's crucial to check your specific cruise line's guidelines. As a general principle, passengers are prohibited from bringing their own alcoholic beverages, with a few exceptions (most lines allow one or two bottles of wine or champagne per cabin, often with a corkage fee). A limited amount of non-alcoholic beverages in cans or cartons may be allowed in your carry-on luggage.
On the final morning of your cruise, you will be asked to vacate your cabin by a certain time (usually early morning). You can choose a luggage-assisted disembarkation (where you leave your bags outside your cabin the night before) or a self-assist option (where you carry all your luggage off the ship yourself). The process involves going through U.S. Customs and Border Protection. It can take several hours, so plan for a late-afternoon flight to allow enough time for customs, transportation, and getting to the airport.
Yes, numerous hotels in Orlando, Cocoa Beach, and the Port Canaveral area cater specifically to cruise passengers. Many offer "park and cruise" or "stay and cruise" packages, which include a one-night stay, complimentary parking for the duration of your trip, and shuttle service to and from the cruise terminals. These packages are a convenient way to reduce the stress of travel on your embarkation day.
The area has a wonderful combination of science, nature, and relaxation. You could spend a day at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, where you can learn about the exciting world of space exploration. For a classic Florida beach day, Cocoa Beach is the perfect place to relax, enjoy the waves, take a walk on the famous pier, and soak up the laid-back beach vibe. For a more serene escape, Manatee Sanctuary Park offers a tranquil setting to observe local wildlife and enjoy Florida's natural beauty.
