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Port Canaveral, Florida

6 Best Ways to Get to Disney Cruises in Port Canaveral

If you’re planning a Disney cruise, you have several options for traveling between Orlando and Port Canaveral. Orlando International Airport (MCO) is 45 miles from Disney’s Port Canaveral Cruise terminal, so you will need a travel plan before arriving in Florida. This guide covers the best ways to get to Disney cruises in Port Canaveral , including detailed information on:

• Disney shuttle service between MCO and the DCL terminal
• Non-Disney transportation between Orlando and Port Canaveral
• Ridesharing and taxi services
• Car rentals and driving your own car
• Most practical and affordable transportation options

Here are the six best ways to travel from Orlando to Port Canaveral, whether you seek the fastest route, the most budget-friendly option, or something else.

1. Uber and Lyft

In the age of rideshare apps, more and more people are choosing private transportation over shuttles.

Ridesharing companies like Uber and Lyft are the best way to travel between Orlando International Airport and the Disney Cruise Line terminal. They provide direct transportation to Port Canaveral and are usually the least expensive option for groups between 3 to 5 people. Additionally, you don’t need advance reservations for Uber and Lyft .

The cost of Uber is usually less than half that of a taxi. For instance, the trip from Orlando International Airport to Port Canaveral costs approximately $60 each way for an Uber Connect or $90 for an UberXL. As a result, the ride costs $15 to $22.50 per person round trip for a group of four. This price is competitive with the cheapest shuttle service, but it’s much more convenient (no need to book in advance), you have the vehicle all to yourself, and you won’t have to worry about late shuttles.

Uber ridesharing app | Image © Uber

Here’s what you can expect to pay for a one-way Uber fare from MCO to Disney Cruise Line Terminal – Port Canaveral:

• Connect – $57.15
• UberX – $65.95
• Uber Green – $65.95
• Uber Pet – $69.82
• Comfort – $75.08
• UberX Car Seat – $75.95
• UberXL – $89.40
• UberXL Car Seat – $99.40
• Black – $149.40
• Black Car Seat – $159.40
• Black SUV Car Seat – $186.29
• Black Hourly – $158.08
• MT Connect – $201.40

Price estimates are subject to change. Check the Uber Price Estimator for the latest fares.

Uber and Lyft are the best ways to get to Disney cruises in Port Canaveral. Once you’ve downloaded the app, Uber and Lyft are very affordable and extremely easy to use. They will take you directly to Disney’s Port Canaveral terminal and return you after your cruise. Plus, you won’t need reservations!

The only major drawback of Uber vs. a shuttle service is that prices can change depending on traffic and surge volume. The Uber app predicts those factors before you hail a ride, but it may be too late to change your plans if you don’t have shuttle reservations.

Another downside could potentially be the type (size) of vehicle you request. A smaller Uber or Lyft may not be sufficient if you have a lot of luggage. Consider your options carefully when ordering a car.

Despite these downside risks, ridesharing is the best way to get to Disney cruises in Port Canaveral .

2. Independent Shuttle Companies

Many shuttle companies provide transport between Orlando and Port Canaveral. After all, the port’s ferry terminal is the second busiest in the world (right behind the Port of Miami ), and the Florida Disney cruise terminal is a busy place. There’s plenty of business to go around!

Like Disney’s own shuttle service, independent shuttle services are usually shared (ie, you share the bus with other guests). However, unlike Disney, independent shuttle companies provide a wide range of vehicle options. These range from sedans and limos to minivans and large motor coaches.

Listed below are the shuttle companies providing service between Orlando International Airport and the Disney Cruise Line terminal at Port Canaveral. Click on any link to visit the company’s website.

• Ace Luxury – Ace provides  “VIP Meet and Greet hospitality service” in the form of sedans, vans, and motorcoach transportation. Contact them for rates.
• Cocoa Beach Shuttle – Cocoa provides sedans, vans ($45 for two people, $85 for 4), a Private 10-passenger Van Service ($150), and motor coaches at various rates.
• Cortrans Shuttle Service – Contrans offers one-way shuttle transportation between MCO and Port Canaveral for $25 one-way and $50 roundtrip.
• Go Port Canaveral – The shuttle bus from MCO to Port Canaveral is $29.99 per person ($59.98 RT).
• Mears Transportation – Mears provides a chauffeured vehicle service to Port Canaveral via their Mears Global Chauffeured Car Service. Contact for price quotes.
• Space Port Transport – Space Port rates are $98 for one to four people, one way, and $10.00 for each additional person.
• Star Trans-VIP – Star Trans-VIP offers a wide selection of luxe and corporate sedans, vans, and motorcoach transportation. Contact them for a quote.
• Tropicana Transport – Tropicana provides shuttle van transportation between MCO and the Disney Cruise Port. Rates are $20 to $27.50 per person, depending on how many people are in the van.

In general, shuttle services outside of Disney are cheaper than Disney’s own ground transportation . Additionally, independent shuttles can be less costly for singles and couples than Uber rates (which start at $60 and go up from there). The same goes for large groups: even though this may seem more luxurious, an entire private van (or even a bus) can be pretty economical if you have a large group.

You will also find that non-Disney providers offer a much wider variety of vehicle types and sizes than ridesharing services and Disney ground transportation.

Despite these advantages, Uber is likely more cost-effective for groups of three to five people. Furthermore, if you don’t mind paying a little extra per person, and all of these options seem overwhelming, you might just consider Disney Cruise Line’s official ground transportation shuttle service. It might be the peace of mind you’re after, and it’s the one way to ensure your experience is as Disney as possible.

Do you still have questions? Let DCL experts at The Vacationeer handle your Disney Cruise Line arrangements. Their services are free to you, and their assistance can be oh-so-helpful. They offer a generous Disney onboard credit program that will save you money when booking a Disney cruise with them. Contact The Vacationeer today to receive a free, no-obligation quote !

3. Disney Ground Transportation from Orlando International Airport or WDW

For those cruising with Disney to The Bahamas or the Caribbean, Disney Cruise Line offers a ground transfer option between Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Disney’s Port Canaveral terminal. Transfers are not included in the cost of a Disney cruise and are available on embarkation and debarkation days only.

The cost from MCO to the Disney terminal is $39 per Guest each way, or $78 roundtrip.

DCL provides special luggage tags that streamline getting your luggage onto the ship; be sure to follow the instructions that come with the tags so that the crew members at the airport, port, and ship get your bags to your stateroom.

DCL will pick you up at Orlando International Airport and take you to the Disney Cruise Port. A DCL representative will assist you with your carry-on bags if necessary.

The Disney Ground Transportation experience is pleasant and seamless from start to finish. You can watch a complimentary Disney movie on the shuttle, and you’ll be dropped off right near the the terminal upon arrival.

You can add flights, ground transportation, or hotel accommodations by calling DCL (800) 951-3532. Or, better yet, let The Vacationeer book your Disney cruise and handle the transportation.

DCL handles all arrangements, so there is no worry of being late for the cruise, and you can sit back and let Disney take care of everything for you.

Disney’s shuttle transportation is not the most cost-effective way to get to Disney Cruises in Port Canaveral. Suppose you have a large family or group. Round trip fares to Port Canaveral are $78 per person, meaning the total price will be over $300 for a family of four or five. A private van for up to ten people would cost less than that.

Disney’s cruise shuttle only picks people up from MCO airport and the Walt Disney World resort hotels.  If you’re flying into the SFB or MLB airports near Orlando and going directly to the ship from the airport, you won’t be able to use the service.

4. Taxi Cabs

Taxis are known to be among the most expensive options for travelers. But how much does a taxi cost from Orlando to Port Canaveral?

According to TaxiFareFinder.com , a taxi ride from Orlando International Airport to Disney Cruise Line Terminal – Port Canaveral will cost you $123 without the tip.

Remember that taxi fares do not take the number of passengers into consideration, so if you have 1 or 4 people, the fare will be the same. So, even if you split the fare between four passengers, your taxi fare still comes to about $35 per person when you include a decent tip. Compare this to the least expensive ridesharing options from Uber and Lyft (starting at $60), and you soon realize that a standard taxi is almost double that of a basic Uber or Lyft.

Mears, a central Florida taxi provider | Image © Mears

Taxis are the most convenient transportation option between Orlando International Airport and the Disney Cruise Line terminal in Port Canaveral . You simply exit the building and find taxi cabs lined up to take passengers to their destination: no reservations, no apps, and no sharing the ride. Just hop right in and go directly to Port Canaveral!

Taxis will cost more than most Uber and Lyft vehicle options, especially the Uber Connect and UberX tiers. Taxis are also more expensive than most shared shuttle options provided by independent (non-Disney) transportation companies.

Disney Cruise Line’s shuttle option is more nuanced. At $39 per person each way, Disney’s option is cheaper for 1, 2, or 3 passengers, but a taxi is cheaper for four people on a per-person basis.

5. Drive your Car to the Cruise Terminal at Port Canaveral

Several parking options are available near the terminal if you drive to Port Canaveral.

The Port Canaveral Port Authority operates a parking garage adjacent to the DCL terminal. It opens at 10:15 am and does not accept cash payments.

The Disney Cruise Line – Port Canaveral Terminal address is:

9155 Charles M. Rowland Dr. Port Canaveral, FL 32920

How much does parking at Disney’s Port Canaveral Terminal cost?

• $68 for a 3-night cruise
• $85 for a 4-night cruise
• $102 for a 5-night cruise
• $119 for a 6-night cruise
• $136 for a 7-night cruise

Preferred parking is available for an extra charge; it allows you to park closer to the ships in an area that is first-come, first-served.

The Port Authority requires full payment for parking at the start of your cruise, but you can also prepay through the Port Canaveral website . Remember, cash is not accepted at the parking lot.

Many hotels in the Port Canaveral area provide shuttles to the port of embarkation. You may consider arriving the day before the cruise and parking at your hotel until it is over. Even after considering the hotel stay, this may save you money, so make sure you check with your hotel for details. It’s always a good idea to arrive a day early anyway so you won’t have to worry about missing your Disney cruise departure.

Having your car means you can plan your own schedule, and you won’t have to depend on anyone else. When you disembark the cruise, your vehicle will be ready for you. You won’t need to share transportation with anyone but your family.

You must navigate through the port and load and unload luggage on your own. Many people find shuttles, Uber, and taxis less stressful and more convenient. Additionally, the cost of a Disney cruise is already high enough without additional fuel costs and daily parking expenses.

6. Rent a Car prior to Cruising

Car rentals are perhaps the least practical option for getting to Disney cruises departing from Florida .

From Orlando International Airport, it will take approximately 43 minutes to reach Disney Cruise Line’s Port Canaveral terminal. The drive is 46 minutes from Melbourne Orlando International Airport (MLB),  61 minutes from Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB), and 60 minutes from Walt Disney World Resort.

Rental cars usually cost $105 per day from Orlando International Airport . There are plenty of car rental companies to choose from at MCO with flexible terms, including the possibility of one-way car rental.

In some situations, renting a car from Orlando to Port Canaveral can be beneficial. If you plan to tour Florida before or after your cruise, renting a vehicle may be a practical and affordable option. It will allow you to explore the area on your own terms if you don’t own a car.

Parking fees must be considered if you decide to keep your car during your cruise. These can add up easily during longer cruises. With this in mind, car rentals are among the most expensive and least practical ways to get to Disney cruises in Port Canaveral .

There are so many ways to get to Port Canaveral without the need to rent a car.

Unless you want to explore the surrounding area before or after your cruise (and don’t have your own car), it’s best to stick with a cheaper and more convenient option.

Final Thoughts on Getting to Your Port Canaveral Cruise

Disney Cruise Line offers a variety of transportation options for getting to the Port Canaveral terminal, including driving yourself, taking a shuttle, hailing an Uber or taxi, and renting a car. While each option has its own set of pros and cons, we think that ridesharing from Uber or Lyft provided the best in affordability and convenience. However, Disney’s option is great if you want to keep it all Disney, and independent companies might be a better option depending on the size of your party. Whatever option you choose, we are sure you will have a magical time at sea!

Ready to Book your Disney Cruise?

If you have questions about the best ways to get to Disney cruises in Port Canaveral, we encourage you to contact The Vacationeer .

They can also provide you with up to $1,000 in FREE onboard credit, Disney’s best available pricing, and expert planning advice and assistance (including the Castaway Cay tips and how to choose the best Disney cruise ship ). Contact The Vacationeer today for a free, no-obligation price quote. You won’t regret it!

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Cruise Canaveral > Cruise Lines > Disney Cruise Line

Disney Cruises from Port Canaveral

There's a lot to like about Disney cruises . The line offers weekly 3- to 7-day cruises and a few longer special voyages. You can even get a Disney World cruise package that combines a cruise with a stay at Disney World.

Disney Cruises are kid-friendly and have the most extensive youth activity area at sea, filling nearly an entire deck of the ship. All activities are now available to all kids, regardless of age. This allows siblings to have fun together. Highlights of the many offerings for kids include Captain Hook's pirate school, Toy Story Boot Camp, Ratatouille Cooking School, Animal Tracking Series, Flubber making, Mouseketeer training, Stitch's Great Adventure, Kim Possible: Cruise Control, and Cinderella's Royal Ball.

Watch a very informative video about "What I Wish I'd Known Before Taking a Disney Cruise" . It tells what to book ahead of your cruise, and other smart tips.

3-night Cruises

3-night Bahamas cruises on the Disney Wish. Round-trip from Port Canaveral to Nassau (Bahamas) and Castaway Cay (private island in Bahamas). • 2024 departures: January 5, 12, 19, 26; February 2, 9, 16, 23; March 1, 8, 15, 22, 29; April 5, 12, 19, 26; May 3, 10, 17, 24, 31; June 7, 14, 21, 28; July 5, 12, 19, 26; August 2, 9, 16, 23, 30; September 6, 13, 20, 27; October 4, 11, 18, 25; November 1, 8, 15, 22, 29; December 6, 13, 20, 26, 27.

4-night Cruises

4-night Bahamas cruises on the Disney Wish. Round-trip from Port Canaveral to Nassau (Bahamas) and Castaway Cay (private island in Bahamas). • 2024 departures: January 8, 15, 22, 29; February 5, 12, 19, 26; March 4, 11, 18, 25; April 1, 8, 15, 22, 29; May 6, 13, 20, 27; June 3, 10, 17, 24; July 1, 8, 15, 22, 29; August 5, 12, 19, 26; September 2, 9, 16, 23, 30; October 7, 14, 21, 28; November 4, 11, 18, 25; December 2, 9, 16, 23, 30.

4-night Bahamas cruises on the Disney Fantasy. Round-trip from Port Canaveral to Nassau (Bahamas) and Lighthouse Point (private retreat in Bahamas). • 2024 departures: October 12, 16.

4-night Bahamas cruises on the Disney Fantasy. Round-trip from Port Canaveral to Lighthouse Point (private retreat in Bahamas) and Castaway Cay (private island in Bahamas). • 2024 departures: November 2, 6; December 14, 18, 22.

7-night Cruises

7-night Eastern Caribbean cruises on the Disney Fantasy . Round-trip from Port Canaveral to Tortola (British Virgin Islands), St Thomas (US Virgin Islands) and Castaway Cay (Bahamas). • 2024 departures: January 6, 20; February 3, 17; March 2, 16, 30; April 13, 27; May 11, 25; June 1, 22; July 6; August 17, 31; September 14, 28; October 26; November 23; December 7.

7-night Eastern Caribbean cruise on the Disney Fantasy . Round-trip from Port Canaveral to Philipsburg (St Maarten), San Juan (Puerto Rico) and Castaway Cay (Bahamas). • 2024 departure: December 29.

7-night Western Caribbean cruises on the Disney Fantasy . Round-trip from Port Canaveral to Cozumel (Mexico), Grand Cayman (Cayman Islands), Falmouth (Jamaica) and Castaway Cay (Bahamas). • 2024 departures: January 13, 27; February 10, 24; March 9, 23; April 6, 20; May 4, 18; June 15, 29; July 13; August 10, 24; September 7, 21; October 5; November 16, 30.

Longer Cruises

10-night Caribbean cruise on the Disney Fantasy . Round-trip from Port Canaveral to Antigua, St Lucia, Dominica, Tortola (British Virgin Islands) and Castaway Cay (Bahamas). • 2024 departure: July 25.

Book Now Orlando Int’l Airport to Port Canaveral ($25 one way / $50 round trip per person.)

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Disney Cruise Port Canaveral Terminal: Your Ultimate Guide

Introduction

Disney Cruise Port Canaveral Terminal is a popular starting point for many Disney cruise passengers. The terminal is conveniently located in Port Canaveral, Florida, and offers easy access to the beautiful beaches, theme parks, and other attractions in the surrounding area. Whether you are planning your first Disney cruise or you are a seasoned cruiser, this guide will help you navigate the Disney Cruise Port Canaveral Terminal and make the most of your pre-cruise stay.

Disney Cruises from Port Canaveral

The Disney Cruise Line offers a variety of cruises from Port Canaveral, including trips to the Caribbean, the Bahamas, and beyond. No matter what type of cruise you are interested in, you can be sure that you will have a memorable experience aboard a Disney cruise ship. With world-class entertainment, delicious dining, and plenty of activities for all ages, a Disney cruise is the perfect way to relax and have fun with your family and friends.

Disney Cruise Parking Port Canaveral

One of the most important things to consider when planning your Disney cruise is how you will get to and from the port. If you are driving to the Disney Cruise Port Canaveral Terminal, you will need to park your car. Fortunately, there are several parking options available, including on-site parking and off-site parking. The cost of parking will vary depending on the option you choose, so be sure to check the rates and availability in advance.

Hotels Near Disney Cruise Port Canaveral

For those who are looking to make the most of their pre-cruise stay, there are many hotels near Disney Cruise Port Canaveral that offer packages that include your stay and your parking. Some of the popular hotels in the area include the Residence Inn, Radisson Resort, and the Port Canaveral Crowne Plaza. These hotels offer great amenities, such as outdoor pools, on-site dining, and pre-cruise packages that include your stay, parking, and luggage tags. When booking your hotel, be sure to ask about any special offers or packages that might be available to help you save money.

Travel Agent or Booking Directly with Disney Cruise Line

When it comes to booking your Disney cruise, you have two options: you can book through a travel agent or you can book directly with the Disney Cruise Line. If you are comfortable using the internet, booking directly with Disney is a simple and straightforward process. However, if you would prefer to work with a travel agent, they can help you plan your cruise, find the best deals, and answer any questions you might have. Whether you choose to book directly with Disney or through a travel agent, be sure to book early to secure your spot on the ship of your choice.

The Disney Cruise Port Canaveral Terminal is a great starting point for your Disney cruise adventure. With plenty of options for parking, hotels, and activities in the surrounding area, there is something for everyone. Whether you are a seasoned cruiser or a first-time passenger, this guide will help you make the most of your pre-cruise stay and ensure that you have a wonderful time aboard your Disney cruise ship.

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Disney cruise line port canaveral: terminal info and more.

Updated: Feb 2

Are you planning your first magical vacation aboard a Disney Cruise Line ship from the popular port of Port Canaveral? Look no further for comprehensive information on everything you need to know about the terminal, parking, how to get there, and more. Join me as we embark on a journey filled with excitement, discovery, and a little bit of Pixie Dust!

Did you know?

Port Canaveral is situated in Cape Canaveral, Florida, serving as Disney's home port. It stands as one of the largest cruise terminals in the US and ranks as the third busiest cruise port globally. During the first half of 2024, the Port Canaveral Cruise Terminal will host two Disney Cruise Ships: the Disney Fantasy and the newly unveiled Disney Wish. Look for your Disney ship at Terminal Building 8.

Port Address

Address: 9155 Charles M. Rowland Dr. Port Canaveral, FL 32920 

Approximate driving times (without traffic and with tolls) to Port Canaveral:

- 45 minutes from orlando international airport,    - 50 minutes from melbourne international airport,    - 60 minutes from walt disney world resort, parking operated by the port canaveral port authority is available adjacent to the cruise terminal. all parking facilities are convenient, secure, and patrolled 24 hours a day. the parking garage opens at 10:15 am., parking is $17.00 per day plus tax for vehicles & rvs, including day of arrival and day of departure. for instance, if you have a 3-night sailing, you will be charged $68 (17 *4) plus tax for parking. rates are subject to change without notice. no cash is accepted - you pay using a major credit card company (i.e., american express, visa, mastercard, and discover)..

When you park, the two most convenient floors are level 1, as this is the ground level, and level 3, which is connected to the covered walkway for the terminal. Level 3 is a great place to park as you do not have to worry about the cars driving up to drop off their luggage and can get a great picture of you and your Disney cruise ship in the background along the covered walkway.

There are other parking options around port canaveral, but they are not tied to the port canaveral port authority and typically require you to take a shuttle to reach the cruise terminal. as such, for easy access to the disney cruise line terminal, parking at the nearby garage is your best bet .

Passenger / Luggage Drop-Off & Pick-Up

Upon arrival, before you park your vehicle in the terminal parking garage, you will proceed directly to the Cruise Terminal to drop off passengers and luggage. Porters will assist you with your luggage, and parking personnel will direct drivers to the appropriate parking facility. Tipping porters $1 - $2 per bag is customary.

Upon departure, passengers can retrieve their vehicles and pick up their companions and luggage in front of the terminal entrance, or they can walk with their luggage to their vehicle and depart when ready..

What is a Port Arrival Time? 

When completing your online check-in process, you will select your Port Arrival Time (PAT). Your PAT is when you can enter the Disney Cruise Line terminal for your physical check-in. For example, if your PAT is from 12:45 pm to 1:00 pm, you can enter the terminal at that specified time. If you arrive earlier than your PAT, you will wait until your time comes. If you arrive after your PAT, you will board with the current group. However, you can park in the garage and drop off your luggage before your PAT to be prepared and among the first in line for your boarding group.

Where to stay before or after your cruise?

If you need to stay at a hotel before or after your cruise, there are plenty of options around Port Canaveral and the Orlando area! One of the closest options to Port Canaveral is the beautiful Hilton Cocoa Beach Oceanfront at 5.5 miles away. This hotel is a great option if you want to begin your vacation early or extend it some after the cruise - you will be right on the beach allowing you to relax and lounge by the pool or by the ocean! You can also enjoy the pier, restaurants, and shops nearby in the surfing capital of the state. 

Another great hotel option is the hyatt regency orlando international airport, located right inside the orlando airport, offering you the convenience of strolling out of your plane into your hotel room with just a few steps this hotel also offers award-winning dining, personalized service, and an outdoor pool with planes soaring overhead..

There are various other hotel options in and around Port Canaveral and Orlando Airport. However, my favorite hotel stay for a Disney Cruise out of Port Canaveral is at a Disney hotel! While staying at a Disney resort means you will be a bit farther from Port Canaveral, the magic will begin sooner and/or end later if you stay before and/or after your cruise. Disney offers various hotel types, from value and moderate to deluxe and deluxe villas, allowing you to choose the best option for your budget!

Does Disney offer transportation from the Disney Resorts to the DCL Terminal in Port Canaveral? 

Yes, if you decide to stay at a Disney resort before and/or after your cruise, not only will the magic start sooner and/or end later for you. But you also have the opportunity to purchase tickets for DCL transportation to and from the terminal.

Does Disney offer transportation from the Orlando International Airport to the DCL Terminal in Port Canaveral? 

Once again, yes! You can purchase tickets for the DCL transportation service to and from the cruise terminal when arriving at the Orlando International Airport (MCO) and/or staying at the Hyatt Regency Orlando Airport. 

How do I book the DCL Ground Transportation? 

Once you have booked your cruise, navigate to Already Booked > Ground Transportation on the Disney Cruise Line website or add Transportation after logging into your reservation on the Disney Cruise Line Navigator App. You can also call (800) 951-3532 to add ground transfers in advance, as only a limited number may be available for purchase upon arrival. If you require a one-way DCL transfer, call the number above to get that purchased. Moreover, for 2024, the average per way per person is $45 to use Disney Cruise Line's Ground Transportation. However, the final number will be provided online, through the app, or by phone, and prices are subject to change without notice.

What is there to do in Port Canaveral? 

Port Canaveral is not only a gateway to magical Disney Cruise Line adventures but also a destination filled with exciting attractions. If you are a water enthusiast, look no further than Cocoa Beach, known as the surfing capital of Florida. Whether you are a seasoned surfer or a newbie, the waves beckon for a thrilling experience. For those fascinated by space exploration, the iconic Kennedy Space Center is a must-visit, allowing you to immerse yourself in the history and future of space travel through interactive exhibits and awe-inspiring rocket launches.

Nature lovers can explore the brevard zoo, home to a diverse range of wildlife in carefully crafted habitats. additionally, the merritt island national wildlife refuge offers a serene escape with its untouched landscapes and abundant birdwatching opportunities. this refuge is also home to beautiful creatures like bald eagles, manatees, and alligators. lastly, jetty park beach is a versatile tourist attraction, featuring a beach pavilion, fishing pier, diverse wildlife, and exceptional vantage points for cruise ship and rocket launch viewing..

Bon Voyage!

If this is your first time visiting Port Canaveral or using Disney Cruise Line's Terminal, I hope this blog post answered all of your questions related to getting there and parking, allowing for a smooth boarding process. I wish you a magical experience on your Disney cruise vacation!

Have you booked your Disney Cruise or are still on the fence? Check out my blog post, What's Included and Not Included in your Disney Cruise Fare , for an all-inclusive guide of what is included in your cruise fare and what would come at an additional cost!

Also be sure to check out my blog post, Menus for Disney Wish Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure , to learn about what you can expect to see and enjoy at this main dining room on the Disney Wish!

For another great Disney read, check out my blog post, Disney Castaway Cay 5K: Details on How to Participate !

Is there anything else you wanted to know about embarkation day at disney cruise line's terminal in port canaveral, florida let me know in the comments below share this article with the person or people you want to go on your next adventure with also, be sure to subscribe below to learn about other places you should add to your "to visit" list ready okay, vamos. time to have fun.

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*This article is not sponsored by any of the above mentioned locations or their affiliates.*

** all the prices above are subject to change without notice by its respective owners. for up-to-date pricing, check each company's respective website. **.

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Disney Cruise Embarkation and Disembarkation Tips For Port Canaveral

When I was preparing for our first Disney Cruise I was most nervous about the Disney Cruise embarkation and disembarkation procedures. I had never done a cruise before, and the information I found was extremely confusing. Now I realize that the Disney Cruise embarkation and disembarkation procedures are overall very easy, but minor mistakes can turn into big problems. Find out what the Disney Cruise embarkation and disembarkation process is like at Port Canaveral and our tips for making your Disney Cruise embarkation and disembarkation days easy.

Disney Cruise Embarkation Day

The day has finally come for you to set sail on your Disney cruise. Before walking onto your Disney Cruise Line ship at Port Canaveral you must complete several steps.

Check Your Luggage

You cannot carry all of your luggage on board with you on embarkation day. Staterooms, which are your home for the duration of the cruise, are not usually ready until late in the afternoon. If you used Disney Cruise Line transportation, and left your bags properly tagged outside of your Disney World resort room, these bags will magically show up outside your stateroom door.

If you have driven yourself, or taken a car service like Tiffany Towncar, you will need to check your properly tagged luggage. A porter at the port will collect your luggage before you head to the security line.

Please note the porters do not work for Disney Cruise Line, and tipping is customary when you hand off your bags.

Pro tip: Check pricing for private car service to Port Canaveral. Many times using a company like Tiffany Towncar will cost the same as using Disney Cruise Line transportation, but the Tiffany Towncar service is more convenient and pleasant than taking the coach buses. 

Regardless of how you get to the port it is very important that you have all essential items for the day with you. All checked luggage is inaccessible for several hours.

Passports, driver’s licenses, birth certificates, medications, valuables, and other essential items should be packed in your embarkation day bag.

Check this article for Disney Cruise vacation packing tips and what to pack in your embarkation day bag.

Get Pre-Boarding COVID Test

Starting in June 2022 Disney Cruise Line updated their pre-cruise COVID testing requirements . In the US and Canada, vaccinated guests must still take a pre-cruise COVID test, but the specific rules have changed.

Instead of mandating testing be done immediately prior to boarding, Disney now accepts negative results of certain tests taken no more than 2 days before embarkation. These negative results must be uploaded to Safe Passage before midnight the day before embarkation.

All testing for vaccinated guests is now at the guest’s expense. For kids under 5 years old they must still pretest 3 days before the cruise at your expense and once again at the port at no charge.

Port test results can take up to 60 minutes. Plan ahead and make sure to pack snacks, drinks, and entertainment to help pass the time while waiting. For the most up to date information consult the Disney Cruise Line website .

Go Through Security Screening

At Port Canaveral there is U.S. airport style screening to enter the port. All bags go through a screening machine. Every person entering the port also passes through a metal detector. This process generally moves quickly with our usual wait time under 15 minutes.

Check-in For Your Cruise

After security it is time to get in line for Disney Cruise Line check-in. Most of your check-in process is completed online in advance of your trip. Having most forms completed online makes the embarkation day process move quickly.

While you wait, staff will provide you a health questionnaire. Complete this questionnaire prior to reaching the check-in desk. Sometimes pens are scarce so it is helpful to have your own.

Once you reach the check-in desk a cast member will pull up your reservation information. They will then ask to see your driver’s license, passport or other items that can be used in lieu of a passport. Find out more about documentation requirements for Disney Cruise Line here .

The cast member will review your travel health questionnaire and then take a photo of each member of the group to associate with your on-board account. After this check-in is complete, the cast member will give you a Key To The World Card and boarding group number.

It is very important to keep track of your Key To The World card. Your Key To The World Card is needed for almost everything on your Disney Cruise Line vacation.

Wait For Your Boarding Group

The boarding process is more streamlined now with guests arriving at pre-selected arrival times. This means you should be able to board the ship quickly after screening unlike before when you may have a long wait in the terminal before boarding.

Once your boarding group number is called you enter the gangway to board the Disney Cruise Line ship. Photographers with a background screen of a Disney Cruise ship will take your photo on the way through the gangway.

Please note this character experience may be modified or absent right now. If you have a little time until your boarding group is called you can start the fun by meeting Disney characters in the port lobby. Find out more about meeting Disney characters on a cruise here.

Board Your Disney Cruise Ship

As you approach the doors of the Disney Cruise Line ship a cast member will ask your family name. When it is your turn to enter the ship a cast member introduces you and the staff applaud as you finally enter the cruise ship.

You have now completed your Disney Cruise embarkation, but there is more to do on this first day. Grab something to eat, explore the ship, or go for a swim while you wait for your room to be ready. 

Before leaving dock there is a mandatory safety drill everyone must attend. After that it is time for the Sail Away Party and for your vacation fun to begin.

Disney Cruise Disembarkation Day

The process for Disney Cruise disembarkation begins the night before you depart and continues into the morning of disembarkation.

Place Luggage Outside Your Stateroom The Night Before

On the evening of your last night on a Disney Cruise your stateroom attendant will place luggage tags and a special paper detailing the Disney Cruise disembarkation process on your bed.

Disney Cruise disembarkation day can be very chaotic. Embarkation is scattered over a longer time whereas disembarking happens around the same time for everyone. Elevators are crowded, and it can be difficult to carry heavy luggage down many flights of steps.

To avoid the challenge of lugging large suitcases on your Disney Cruise disembarkation day you can choose to use special tags and place bags outside of your stateroom the night before disembarking. Your stateroom attendant will load the luggage, and porters will have it ready to pick up outside the ship.

It is important that you keep everything you need for your last night and the next morning with you. The luggage you leave outside the stateroom will be unavailable until after you disembark the Disney cruise ship.

We usually pack everything except pajamas, clothes and shoes for the next day, medications, toiletries, jewelry, passports or other important documents. Then on Disney Cruise disembarkation day we pack all of our remaining items in a carry-on suitcase and our personal items like a backpack or purse.

Disembarkation Day Breakfast

The Disney Cruise Line disembarkation day starts early. If you had first seating for dinner your scheduled breakfast time is 6:45 am. If you are the second dinner seating then breakfast is usually at 8:00 am.

Both of these times can be rather early. This is especially true when you consider everyone needs to be up, dressed, and fully packed prior to going to breakfast. We have done a sit-down disembarkation day breakfast and also done continental style breakfast in our room for disembarkation day.

Eating something quick in the room and then disembarking the ship while others are at breakfast is much easier. Room service is not available on Disney cruise disembarkation day, so plan ahead. Order complimentary room service the day before your Disney Cruise disembarkation day. We’ve found the best breakfast supplies are fruit, cereal, and milk.

Exiting The Ship

If you have a quick breakfast in your stateroom prior to disembarking your Disney cruise, exiting the ship is likely to be easier. You can time your exit to occur while others are at breakfast. Right after each breakfast group finishes is the worst time to try and exit the ship.

One time when we went to the disembarkation breakfast we had to wait over 20 minutes in line just to exit the ship’s lobby onto the gangway. The line on the gangway took even longer.

Each passenger is scanned out with their Key To The World Card when disembarking a Disney cruise. Many people leave their Key To The World Card in their stateroom and then have difficulty disembarking. Keep your Key To The World Card with you at all times even on Disney cruise disembarkation day.

Pick Up Luggage

Any luggage that you tagged and placed outside of your stateroom the night before will be in a large area waiting to be claimed. Each section of staterooms is assigned a color and character luggage tag. This helps you to find the section where your luggage is stored. There are lots of bags, so don’t be surprised if it takes a couple of minutes to find all of your luggage.

US Customs and Border Protection

After you have collected all of your luggage, you will enter the line for US Customs and Border Protection. An agent will call you forward and ask to see your passport or other accepted documentation. They will confirm your identity and may ask some general questions before allowing you re-entry in the port.

Final Thoughts On Disney Cruise Embarkation and Disembarkation Procedures

Disney Cruise embarkation and disembarkation procedures are easy once you know what to expect. The most important thing on embarkation day is to arrive with a smartly packed embarkation day bag and all required documents for your trip.

Disney cruise disembarkation day can feel hectic if you don’t plan ahead. Leaving non-essential luggage outside of your stateroom the night before and eating a continental breakfast in your room the morning of disembarking alleviates much of the stress.

Remember to bring your Key To The World Card with you when exiting the ship to avoid delays. The Disney Cruise disembarkation process can take a while, so always check with Disney Cruise Line for recommendations before booking flights.

Find more planning resources for your Disney Cruise here.

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Disney Cruise Port Canaveral

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Disney Cruise Line is famous for their award-winning family cruises. Each stunning vessel incorporates the magic of Disney's signature theming for an unforgettable cruising experience. If you’re sailing on a Disney cruise from Port Canaveral, let Go Port make your trip seamless from start to finish. We will take care of everything you need ashore from hotel accommodations to ship transfers and airport transportation so you can make the most of your Disney cruise Port Canaveral vacation.

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Disney Cruise Port Canaveral Itineraries

Western caribbean.

Cozumel, Mexico | George Town, Grand Cayman Island | Falmouth, Jamaica | Castaway Cay, Bahamas | Costa Maya, Mexico

Eastern Caribbean

Tortola Island, Virgin Islands | St. Thomas, Virgin Islands | Castaway Cay, Bahamas | Basseterre, St. Kitts | St. Johns, Antigua | San Juan, Puerto Rico | Fort-de-France, Martinique

Southern Caribbean

Oranjestad, Aruba | Island Bridgetown, Barbados | Fort-de-France, Martinique | Basseterre, St. Kitts | San Juan, Puerto Rico | Castaway Cay, Bahamas

Castaway Cay, Bahamas | Nassau, Bahamas

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To contact a cruise line for lost luggage or other information, please use these numbers:

For more information on Port Canaveral's cruise business, call (321) 783-7831 or e-mail [email protected]  

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Should You Take Disney Cruise Line Transportation? What You Need to Know.

by Jenn Marrazzo | Nov 9, 2023 | Disney Cruise Line

Heading on a Disney Cruise soon? Here’s why you should consider taking Disney Cruise transportation to the port.

Guests headed onboard a Disney Cruise from Port Canaveral in Florida are probably facing some exciting decisions as they get ready to sail. From what excursions they should book to any onboard extras, there are so many ways to personalize your Disney Cruise Line vacation. 

One thing that most people don’t consider is transportation to the port. How are you getting from Orlando International Airport or Walt Disney World to Port Canaveral and back? Well, one option to consider is to utilize official Disney transportation services.  We’re going to break down whether you should take Disney Cruise Transportation on your next sailing and what the alternatives are. 

Distance to Port Canaveral from Orlando

Port Canaveral is located on the East Coast of Florida and is parallel with Orlando. With that said, it is a little bit of a hike from the port to the Greater Orlando Area, so keep that in mind when visiting. 

Photo by Bill Ryan

Orlando International to Port Canaveral 

Orlando International and Port Canaveral are about 47 miles apart. Therefore, you can expect a ride of about 45 minutes back and forth. That is assuming there is no traffic, so always add on some extra time to account for Orlando traffic. 

Walt Disney World to Port Canaveral 

The Walt Disney World Resort and Port Canaveral are about 59 miles apart. The ride between the two is approximately one hour back and forth. Again, the closer you get to Disney, you could face some extensive traffic, so always prepare ahead of time if you are leaving for your cruise. 

Transportation Options to Port Canaveral 

There are a few ways to travel from Port Canaveral to Orlando. We’ll break down these different ways for you. 

Whether you are headed to Port Canaveral from Orlando International or decided to stay at Disney World for a few days before, one option is taking an Uber or Lyft to the Port. As we previously mentioned, Port Canaveral is a hike from both the airport and the parks, so the cost will reflect that. You can expect an Uber or Lyft to cost you around $100 or more given the distance. 

Official Disney Cruise Line Transportation 

The other option that guests can consider when embarking on a Disney Cruise is official Disney Cruise Line Transportation. This transportation will have you picked up at either the airport or at your Disney Resort and brought to the terminal in Port Canaveral. The transportation cost is $39/per person. To discuss specific options for your cruise and travel itinerary, call Disney Cruise Line at (800) 951-3532. 

Benefits of Disney Cruise Line Transportation

Earlier boarding group/port arrival.

One of the best parts about using Disney Cruise Line Transportation is that you arrive at the port early and therefore, are given an earlier boarding group to get onto your ship. That means your vacation starts early! These boarding groups are usually highly coveted and people will start their check-in exactly on the date it opens. But if you use a Disney Transfer, they will take care of that for you so you aren’t waiting around. 

Photo by Danny Shuster

Easy to Book and Guaranteed Pick Up

Booking a Disney Transfer is quite easy. Once you make your final payment for your cruise, you are able to book on the Disney Cruise Line app or website. You’ll be prompted to add transportation at either the beginning of your cruise, the end of your cruise, or both. 

Luggage Transfer

You are on vacation so don’t stress about carrying your luggage around. By simply adding your Disney Cruise Line luggage tag onto your luggage prior to pickup, you won’t have to worry about luggage at all. If you are staying at a Disney World resort hotel or at the Hyatt at Orlando International, a representative from Disney Cruise Line will come early in the morning to pick up your bags. It’s as simple as that… you’ll find them onboard in your room. 

If you are flying on the day of your cruise, Disney Cruise Line will pick up your luggage from baggage claim and bring it to the Port so that once again, you’ll find your luggage onboard. We love this perk and think this is totally worth the process.  

Entertainment on Board

When being picked up by Disney Cruise Line Transportation, you’ll have access to Disney entertainment onboard your bus. If you remember Disney’s Magical Express Service , you’ll receive similar entertainment to that. From Disney cartoons to information about the port, it’s a great way to keep the magic flowing right into your Disney Cruise. 

Downsides of Disney Cruise Line Transportation

As we mentioned, the Disney Transfer costs $39/per person. If you are a family of 4, you are looking at a cost of over $150 to use the service. While that might not be intriguing for some, it’s something to think about before you click that book button. 

Multiple Stops 

If you are being picked up at a Walt Disney World Resort Hotel, keep in mind that you will most likely be stopping at multiple resorts around WDW. Since there’s probably many guests who are being picked up, they will try to get as many people as possible onto the transfer. That means you’ll spend more time onboard the bus. 

You Have No Say in Pick-Up Time

If you are someone who doesn’t like the idea of being told when it’s time to leave, this service might not be for you. That’s because you have no say in the pick-up time for the bus. Disney will schedule this for you according to where you are being picked up and when they have the most demand. 

Should You Take It? 

While we broke down both the pros and cons of Disney Transportation, we highly recommend that you take the Disney Transportation. From not worrying about luggage to receiving an earlier boarding group, the pros outweigh the few cons we can find. 

FAQs of Disney Cruise Line Transportation

What’s the cost of disney cruise line transportation .

Disney Cruise Line Transportation costs $39 per person per way. 

Can you book Disney Cruise Line Transportation if you are flying into Orlando Airport the day of?

Absolutely! That’s one of the best parts! You’ll find a Disney Curise Line representative in the terminal ready to take you over to the port. But, remember, you must book this ahead of time. 

Will they pick you up at a Disney World Resort or at the Hyatt at Orlando Airport? 

Guests love the fact that Disney Cruise Line Transportation can whisk you from the parks to the ship. Sometimes people even stay at the Hyatt at Orlando Airport and you can also receive the service if you are staying there too. 

What happens if you get to the port before your port arrival time? 

By booking a Disney Cruise Line transfer, you’ll receive an earlier port time and boarding group to accommodate you if you arrive early. You won’t have to wait around outside if you get there earlier than expected. 

Is it easy to book? 

It sure is! Just visit the Disney Cruise Line app or use the Disney Cruise Line website after your final payment is submitted to purchase this add-on. 

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‘urgent and necessary:’ port canaveral ceo announces new cruise terminal, expansion coming to north side of port.

Haley Coomes , Digital Content Producer

James Sparvero , Reporter

BREVARD COUNTY, Fla. – In order to meet the growing demands of the cruise industry, Port Canaveral announced its plan to build a new cruise terminal and parking garage.

During a press conference on Thursday, CEO John Murray said the need for a new terminal is urgent and necessary.

“All of our ports in Florida on the East Coast and south ports are full,” said Murray. “Can’t go to Miami, can’t go to Tampa, the ships are too big. Jacksonville — same issue.”

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The expansion will be located at the existing North 8 berth and adjacent to Terminal 5, an area that Murray said is underutilized. Designed and built in 2018 for multi-purpose flexibility, the North 8 berth will require minimal modifications to extend the current 1,020 linear feet bulkhead to 1,344 feet to accommodate large cruise vessels.

Crews will also be able to build a terminal faster on the north side as opposed to the busier south side. The new terminal would help relieve congestion in the south side community and bring it to the north side.

The announcement comes as Port Canaveral prepares for more ships in 2024: Utopia of the Seas — the world’s second-largest cruise ship — is expected to set sail in July, Celebrity and Princess cruises are expected to begin in the fall, and the Disney Treasure’s maiden voyage is set for December.

“We’re at a point where our six terminals are operating at maximum utilization and the need for a new terminal has become more urgent,” Murray said.

About 800,000 people went on a cruise in March, a new monthly record for the port.

Murray said the port is so busy it actually has to turn some ships away now.

Murray could not give details on production costs but did say the project is self-funded. The goal is to have the cruise terminal operating by mid-summer of 2026.

Previously, that was about when the port wanted to finish a terminal in the marina district, as the port said it would not renew the Cape Marina’s lease when it ends in 2026.

On Thursday, Murray reiterated the lease still won’t be renewed, but he also said fishermen are not being kicked out of the port.

“We’re going to carve out a long-term spot for our commercial fishermen,” he said. “We think of them as the fabric of our port, and we want to make sure that we protect that segment of the industry.”

Murray said building a terminal at the marinas should happen around 2030.

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About the Authors

Haley coomes.

Haley is a digital content producer for ClickOrlando.com and first started as a News 6 producer in October 2014. She's a graduate of Indiana University with a Bachelors of Arts degree in journalism. She specializes in theme parks and lifestyle writing.

James Sparvero

James joined News 6 in March 2016 as the Brevard County Reporter. His arrival was the realization of a three-year effort to return to the state where his career began. James is from Pittsburgh, PA and graduated from Penn State in 2009 with a degree in Broadcast Journalism.

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Disney Cruise Line Transportation Options

Whether you arrive by airplane, train, or automobile, guests must still consider transportation options when planning a cruise. Drivers will need to park for the duration of the voyage. Those flying or taking a train will need to get to the cruise port. Depending on the port your cruise sails from, there can be several Disney Cruise Line transportation options available.

Listed below are options for Disney Cruise Line Transportation Options for Port Canaveral .

Auto Rental Companies Driving/Parking at Port Canaveral Shuttles Public Transportation Limousine and Towncar Services Taxi Companies Ride Share

Auto Rental

Guests may choose to rent a car from the airport and drop it at a location at the port. Car rental gives lots of options for side trips or staying at a hotel before or after the cruise. Keep in mind that there may be parking fees at hotels and will be fees at the port if you choose this option.

Automobile Rental Companies at Orlando International Airport and Port Canaveral

Alamo – MCO (Inside Orlando International Airport) 888-826-6893 / 407-855-4170 – Port Canaveral 888-826-6893

Avis – MCO (Inside Orlando International Airport) 888-849-0277 / 407-825-3700 – Port Canaveral (6650 N. Atlantic Ave., Cape Canaveral, FL 32920) 888-849-0277 / 321-783-3643

Enterprise – MCO (Inside Orlando International Airport) 800-325-8007 / 407-281-3555 – Port Canaveral (6211 N. Atlantic Ave., Cape Canaveral, FL 32920) 800-325-8007 / 321-866-0324

Hertz – MCO (Inside Orlando International Airport) 800-654-3131 / 407-859-8400 – Port Canaveral (8963 Astronaut Blvd., Cape Canaveral, FL32920) 800-654-3131 / 321-783-7771

National – MCO (Inside Orlando International Airport) 888-826-6890 / 407-855-4170 – Port Canaveral (6211 N. Atlantic Ave., Cape Canaveral, FL 32920) 888-826-6890 / 321-866-0324

Thrifty – MCO (Inside Orlando International Airport) 800-367-2277 / 407-380-1002 – Port Canaveral (6799 N. Atlantic Ave., Cape Canaveral, FL 32920) 800-367-2277 / 321-783-2600

Driving/Parking at Port Canaveral

Driving to Port Canaveral

From the Walt Disney World Resort: Take I-4 east or 417 east to State Road 528 east (Beeline Expressway). Continue on State Road 528 over the Indian River and the Banana River. Turn right onto State Road 401, which will loop and head north over the channel locks. Stay in the right-hand lane and follow the signs to Cruise Terminal 8.

From Orlando International Airport: Take State Road 528 east (Beeline Expressway). Continue on State Road 528 over the Indian River and the Banana River. Turn right onto State Road 401, which will loop and head north over the channel locks. Stay in the right-hand lane and follow the signs to Cruise Terminal 8.

Parking at Port Canaveral

The Canaveral Port Authority operates the parking facility. Major credit cards – MasterCard, Visa, Discover and American Express, are the only acceptable forms of payment. Personal checks or cash will not be accepted.  EPASS and SunPass accepted Only at the Cruise Terminal 3 parking garage.  Parking is $17.00 per day plus tax for vehicles & RVs, including day of arrival and day of departure.

Disabled Parking spaces are available, and the fee is waived for vehicles transporting certain persons who have disabilities that:

• Have special equipment, such as ramps, lifts, foot or hand controls for use by a disabled person OR
• Display a Florida Toll Exemption Permit as explained in s. 316.1964, Florida Statutes OR
• Display a Florida Disabled Veteran (DV) license plate issued under s. 320.084; s. 320.0842; or s. 320.0845, Florida Statutes.

Some local hotels may also offer packages which include parking and/or transportation to the Port. If you are interested in this option, please contact your travel counselor for more details.

Shuttle Companies

Many shuttle companies service the Port Canaveral Area. Consult the airport or yellow pages for other shuttle companies in the area.

Limousine and Towncar Services

Several reputable limousine/town car service companies operate between the Orlando area and Port Canaveral.  This is often a better value than shuttle service if you are traveling in a party of 4 or more.  Check with the town car service company to be sure you know what is included or not included.  Some companies include a short stop at a location of your choice for you to pick up necessities before you reach your destination, while other companies offer the service at an additional charge.  Same goes with infant/toddler car seats, etc.  Some companies automatically charge gratuity while others leave it to you to decide how much to tip the driver.  Check and compare different companies before you decide who to hire.

Public Transportation

Below is public transportation information for service in the Port Canaveral Area. Public Transportation will not get a guest from Orlando International Airport to Port Canaveral, but if guests are staying the area, there is public transportation. The transit website gives detailed information regarding available options.

321-633-1878

Space Coast Commuter Assistance

321-952-4563

Taxi Companies

Several taxi companies service the Port Canaveral area. While it may be possible to take a taxi from outside of the Port Canaveral area, it may not be the most cost-effective.

Both Uber and Lift drivers are available near the ports, as well as in Orlando, and many other nearby cities. Utilizing a ride share option does allow you to get to the port at the time you’re wanting to arrive, however depending on what size car you need, it might be just as cost effective to rent a car and drive it yourself. Pricing tends to range from $70 for a basic rideshare vehicle (add about $5 for a vehicle with a car seat) up to about $150 for a more deluxe ride.

Make sure you download the respective app of the rideshare service you are looking to use before arriving for your vacation and go through the registration process, so you’ll be ready to go when it’s time to go.

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Florida Cruise Port Home to MSC, Norwegian, and More Is Expanding — What to Know

Port Canveral's new terminal is expected to be up and running by 2026.

Education Images/Getty Images

A cruise port on Florida’s Space Coast is going bigger, planning to build a brand-new cruise terminal to meet demand.

Port Canaveral’s new, expanded cruise terminal will be built at one of the existing berths and is expected to be operational by summer 2026, according to the port . When complete, it will have the ability to serve multiple cruise lines. 

"A new cruise terminal and the business it will deliver builds on our Board’s commitment to the economic prosperity of our Port community," Micah Loyd, the chairman of the Canaveral Port Authority Board of Commissioners, said in a statement. “This proactive, business-oriented strategy reaffirms our commitment to ensure the State of Florida continues to prosper from cruise tourism and remains the ‘Cruise Capital of the World’.”

When finished, the new terminal will extend the current North 8 berth by more than 300 feet to  accommodate larger cruise ships. The project will also include a new multi-story parking facility with the ability to accommodate up to 3,000 vehicles along with roadway improvements.

Port officials expect disruptions to current operations to be minimal during construction due to the project’s location.

Capt. John Murray, the Port Canaveral CEO, said in the statement the planned new terminal is “key to retaining and growing this important business segment that supports many jobs and delivers high value to our regional and state economy.”

Currently, several major cruise lines call Port Canaveral home: Carnival Cruise Line, Disney Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, and MSC Cruises. In fact, the site welcomed an all-time high 6.8 million cruise passengers in the 2023 fiscal year, according to the port .

From Port Canaveral , which is nestled along Florida’s Space Coast , travelers can explore NASA’s Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex , hang out on the sand at Cocoa Beach , tour mangroves, keep an eye out for manatees and dolphins, and more.

Related Articles

Port Canaveral adjusts plan so new terminal will be ready in 2026

C APE CANAVERAL — Port Canaveral officials revealed Thursday a plan to turn an existing cargo berth into a new cruise terminal in 2026 that can handle the largest cruise ships in the world.

“The need now for our cruise partners is immediate,” said port CEO Capt. John Murray. “We have a point now where we’re starting to turn business away from Port Canaveral.”

The port had initially targeted construction of a seventh terminal on the south side of the port after moving several marina businesses. This new plan will convert North Cargo Berth 8 opposite Cruise Terminal 5 on the north side of the port.

Murray said the original plan turned out to be “a five- to six-year project to do it correctly.”

Working with the existing cargo terminal allows for a quick construction turnaround. It’s already deep enough to handle any cruise ship, even what will become the world’s largest cruise ship, Royal Caribbean’s Star of the Seas, set to call Port Canaveral home when it debuts.

“It will be a state-of-the-art terminal, will use all the latest technologies, that will handle the largest ships in the world, and it will be a multiuser facility,” Murray said. “In other words, we, Port Canaveral, will run the terminal and it won’t be cruise-line specific — so multiple brands, a big-ship terminal, gives us the flexibility to put the largest ships in there and the smaller ones at some of our older facilities that can’t handle the largest ships.”

Building what is expected to be about a 2,500-space garage and other terminal support buildings also is going to be faster because the space is already what is known as “greenfield,” meaning ready for any kind of development.

Right now, the cargo berth is basically a parking wharf, sometimes used by SpaceX recovery ships for docking, but most of the space industry will focus on the other cargo terminals farther to the east in the port, Murray said.

Port Canaveral plots timeline to take over marina for new cruise terminal

Murray said the south side plans are still something the port wants to pursue, but the cruise terminal needs by shifting to the north will alleviate the demand for now.

An eighth terminal could come online after 2030, he said, but it also allows the port to focus attention on its commercial fishing industry and reorganize the district in the coming years. So the existing announcement that the port was not going to renew the lease of Cape Marina, which it deems an underutilized space, is still going forward.

The cruise industry is its main revenue source, generating the bulk of more than $187 million projected for this fiscal year. The port had 16 cruise ships calling it home either year-round or seasonally over the last year, and expects that to grow to 19 in the next fiscal year.

A new terminal could realistically add another three, Murray said, and that would continue to grow the port’s burgeoning business that expects to see more than 7 million passenger movements this year, and continue its already record revenue totals.

Port Canaveral chalks up record month amid growing cruise demand

Next year will also see the port’s first homeported ships from Princess Cruises and Celebrity Cruises on top of the fleets already from Disney, Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian and MSC Cruises.

Murray said tinquiries for new ships are running into full slates not only at Port Canaveral, but also Port Everglades and Miami, while also pointing out that Tampa and Jacksonville are limited in what size ships they can take on.

“So there’s only three ports really that can take these ships in Florida and if we can’t take them, they’re going to go into another state. So it’s really important that we find a way to take that business and keep that economic impact in Florida,” he said.

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