Port Canaveral Cruise Port: Parking, Shuttles, Hotels & Transportation from Orlando

The cruise port near Orlando, Florida is officially named Port Canaveral, and it's located in Cape Canaveral. I’m always surprised by how many first-time cruisers think the ships leave from the immediate Orlando area, but the cruise terminals are actually a good drive away... about 45 to 60 minutes east, depending on traffic. This means that cruisers departing from Port Canaveral should plan for that distance so you’re not rushing.
Port Canaveral and Port Miami jockey back and forth for the title of the world’s busiest cruise port, so there are a lot of ships coming in and out of the port daily.
In terms of logistics and getting around, it's helpful to know that Port Canaveral’s seven terminals are divided into A terminals (5, 6, 8, and 10) and B terminals (1, 2, and 3). But no worries about fixating on this too much, as there's clear signage as you get close to the terminals to direct you to the correct one based upon the name of your cruise ship.

Port Canaveral Cruise Port Location and Map
Each terminal at Port Canaveral has a different address, so double-check your cruise documents or e-boarding pass before you make your travel arrangements.
- Terminal 1 (CT1): 9050 Discovery Road, Port Canaveral, FL 32920
Typically used by: Royal Caribbean - Terminal 2 (CT2): 681 Magellan Road, Port Canaveral, FL 32920
- Terminal 3 (CT3): 220 Christopher Columbus Drive, Port Canaveral, FL 32920
Typically used by: Carnival - Terminal 5 (CT5): 9075 Bolivar Road, Port Canaveral, FL 32920
Overflow for: Carnival, Norwegian - Terminal 6 (CT6): 9245 Charles Rowland Drive, Port Canaveral, FL 32920
Overflow for: Carnival, Norwegian, MSC - Terminal 8 (CT8): 9155 Charles Rowland Drive, Port Canaveral, FL 32920
Dedicated to: Disney Cruise Line - Terminal 10 (CT10): 9005 Charles Rowland Drive, Port Canaveral, FL 32920
Typically used by: Norwegian, MSC
Note: Terminal assignments can change, especially if new ships are in port, so always confirm your specific terminal with your cruise line or on your cruise documents.
You can get official directions, driving tips, and downloadable maps on the port’s directions and parking page, and see the port layout on the official facilities map.



Port Canaveral at a Glance
- Terminals: CT5, CT6, CT8, CT10 (A side)
CT1, CT2, CT3 (B side) - Ships: Port Canaveral can host 6 to 8 cruise ships at a time and is one of the world’s busiest homeports.
- Distance to Orlando: Approximately 45 minutes by car (about 30 miles).
- Distance to Cocoa Beach: Around 20 minutes by car (about 12 miles).
- Parking: Parking in the port’s official lots starts at $17 per day.


Space Coast Sail Away
One of my favorite things about cruising from Port Canaveral is that you are sailing straight out of Florida’s Space Coast. As you glide down the channel, you can sometimes spot structures from Kennedy Space Center across the water, and on the right week you might even overlap with a rocket launch. It is a uniquely Port Canaveral moment to watch ships and space share the same skyline.
Launch schedules change and windows can shift, but it is absolutely worth checking the calendar in the days before you sail. If your cruise dates line up, you could plan a pre or post day at Kennedy Space Center, or catch a launch from Cocoa Beach or Jetty Park. Even if a launch slips to a different time, the visitor complex is still one of the best full day experiences in Florida with Shuttle Atlantis, the Saturn V building, and the bus tour out to historic pads.
For the latest launch schedule and visitor details, see the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex website.
Getting to Port Canaveral
Brightline, Florida's new high-speed train, is a pretty slick way to get from Orlando to Port Miami or Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, and a solid choice for folks cruising out of South Florida. But, there's currently no Brightline route to Port Canaveral from the Orlando airport. If you're sailing from Canaveral, you'll still need to plan road transportation for the 45 to 60 minute trip from MCO, since there's no direct rail or shuttle option.
It's an easy drive from Orlando International Airport (MCO) to Port Canaveral… well, easy depending on traffic. In average conditions, the drive typically takes 45 to 60 minutes, but with few alternate roads to and from the port, one traffic accident or moderate road construction can wreak havoc.
On top of that, there's one thing many first-timers don't plan for: rocket launches from Kennedy Space Center. If a launch is scheduled for your embarkation or debarkation day, traffic can get heavy around the port and main approach roads, especially SR 528 and A1A. It's smart to check the launch schedule and pad a little extra buffer into your travel time just in case.
When it comes to flying in to a cruise from Port Canaveral, because I love to ball on a budget, I often like to look at other nearby airport options, as this can sometimes save quite a bit of money (like flying to FLL for a cruise out of Port Miami, for example).
When cruising from Port Canaveral, the primary option is Orlando International Airport (MCO). However, there are a few alternatives worth considering. Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB) is about 60 miles from the Port Canaveral Cruise Port and is served by Allegiant Air and several international carriers.
Another option is Melbourne Orlando International Airport (MLB), which is closer at about 30 miles south of Port Canaveral and offers service through Delta, American, and United, though with more limited flight options. I recently flew home on Allegiant from MLB and fell in love with this airport, although it was previously not really on my radar. It's small, so easy to get around, zero TSA lines, and they have a huge Priority Pass lounge. I'm a big fan.
Here are the best transportation options to get from Orlando International Airport to the Port Canaveral Cruise Port:
Cruise Line Transfers
Most major cruise lines offer transfer service to Port Canaveral. For example, Carnival charges around $35 per person one way from MCO, while Royal Caribbean charges approximately $40 per person. These are booked directly through your cruise line and usually involve group shuttle transport.
There are also a number of independent transfer service providers that offer more affordable options than the cruise lines.
GoPort Shared Shuttle
GoPort offers shared shuttle service from MCO to Port Canaveral for $29.99 per person one-way, which is cheaper than most cruise line shuttles. Shuttles run regularly from 10:00 AM to 12:30 PM on cruise days, with check-in at Terminal A, Level 1, next to the car rental counters.
The shuttles operate on a first-come, first-served basis and depart when full. Return shuttles from Port Canaveral to MCO start at 7:00 AM and run until debarkation is complete. Round-trip booking is around $60 per person total, and they provide luggage assistance at both ends.
It's a solid budget option if you don't mind riding with other cruisers and can work within their set schedule. Just note that you'll need to go with their departure windows rather than having flexibility on timing.
Hotel Shuttles
Many Port Canaveral area hotels offer complimentary shuttle service to the cruise terminals. The Radisson Resort at the Port and Country Inn & Suites both provide free shuttles for their guests, making embarkation day stress free. Be sure to confirm shuttle availability and times when booking your hotel.
Rideshare
Uber and Lyft operate reliably from MCO to the Port Canaveral Cruise Port. Expect to pay $60 to $85 for a standard UberX for up to 4 riders, depending on time of day and demand. UberXL and Comfort options are also available and ideal for cruisers with extra luggage or larger groups.
Surge pricing tips: Prices often spike on busy Sundays and around ship arrival and departure waves. If you see a surge, wait 5 to 10 minutes and refresh, or walk a short distance away from the most congested pickup area to reduce the multiplier.
Meetup basics at MCO: Follow the app directions to the terminal's designated rideshare pickup zone. Have your door letter or zone ready, confirm the license plate and driver name, and keep your phone visible so your driver can spot you.
Meetup basics at the port: After disembarkation, follow terminal signage to the rideshare pickup area outside your specific cruise terminal. Terminals have separate curbs for private vehicles, shuttles, and rideshare. Move to the marked rideshare zone before you request the car so your driver can enter the queue and reach you faster.
Large parties and car seats: Consider UberXL or two standard cars. If you need car seats, request in advance or bring your own to avoid last minute cancellations.
When reliability matters: Pre‑book a private driver for debarkation morning to avoid surge and long app wait times during peak windows. You can book my recommended Orlando drivers here.
Private Driver
My preferred way to get to the Port Canaveral Cruise Port is to use a private transfer service. My go-to Orlando drivers are Manny and Emile, a husband and wife team who run a fleet that specialize in getting cruisers to and from Port Canaveral.
They're affordable, often not much more than ride share, and you can schedule them in advance, which is helpful since getting to the airport from Port Canaveral can sometimes be stressful, with lots of rideshare cancellations and surge pricing. They're also excellent with communication and hospitality. If you'd like info and to book with them, you can do that here.
Another option is GetTransfer, which allows you to compare rates from multiple providers, though I have not personally used this service and can't speak to it, and I've heard mixed reviews from cruisers.
Renting a Car
Renting a car can be convenient for sightseeing or grocery runs, but one‑way rentals to the port can be tricky. There are limited rental car offices in Port Canaveral and Cocoa Beach, and not every agency supports one‑way drops from MCO on cruise days. I have done the one-way rental thing myself, and I had to book in advance, as options same-day are often unavailable or limited.
If you plan to rent, book early, search Cocoa Beach and Cape Canaveral locations, and confirm a shuttle from the rental office to your specific cruise terminal.
Agencies with free shuttle to the cruise terminals: Budget (CC5), Avis (P3F), and the combined Enterprise/Alamo/National Port Canaveral location. Shuttles typically run every 10–15 minutes when ships are in port; verify hours for early morning embark and Sunday returns.
Pro tip: For post‑cruise returns, double‑check Sunday hours and after‑hours key drop so you are not stuck waiting. If inventory is tight, consider a round‑trip rental and park at your hotel or use official port parking.


Embarkation at Port Canaveral
Embarkation day at Port Canaveral is usually streamlined and efficient, but it’s still a busy hub, especially if multiple ships are sailing out the same morning. The port is much larger and more spread out than places like Seattle, so your experience really comes down to traffic, your assigned terminal, and whether you stick to your cruise line’s boarding window.
Most cruise lines issue designated boarding times, and arriving close to your assigned window is your best bet. If you show up extra early you could find long lines, especially on peak weekends and holidays when several ships are loading all at once, and the cruise line may not allow you on early, requiring you to wait around in the terminal.
It's important to note, too, that the surrounding roads (like SR-528 and A1A) can get backed up, so plan for some extra travel buffer.
The curbside process is pretty smooth, as there are always tons of porters available, ready right there at the curb to take your bags as you pull up, but on really heavy days you might wait a few minutes for help. Standard tip is $2 to $5 per bag, although that is of course completely optional and up to each person's discretion. After handing off your luggage, you’ll go through security and check-in, and cruise line crew are normally on hand to help direct you.
From curb to gangway, most people make it aboard in 45 to 60 minutes, but during big sail-out days or if you arrive right at the busiest time it can stretch closer to 90 minutes.
Orlando Day Room Options After Your Cruise
If your cruise returns to Port Canaveral and you have a late flight out of MCO, one of the smartest ways to avoid sitting around with your luggage (or killing time in a crowded airport) is by booking a day room.
A day room gives you access to a hotel room and amenities (think showers, a pool, space to relax, and even a place to nap) without booking an overnight stay. Day rooms near Orlando International Airport or Cocoa Beach can be the perfect bridge between disembarking your cruise and catching your flight home.
🎥 Watch my video about day rooms and what to expect
🛏️ Check availability and book a day room here
It's one of my favorite post-cruise hacks to chill in a place much more comfortable than an airport and reset before the flight home. It also provides a secure place to store your luggage, allowing you to explore the Orlando area or relax at the beach before returning home.
Port Canaveral Luggage Storage Options After a Cruise
The Port Canaveral cruise terminals do not offer on-site luggage storage after disembarkation. If you have time before your flight, you can use a third party bag service in Orlando or Cocoa Beach, or store bags at the airport.
Options to consider include Radical Storage partner locations around Orlando and the Space Coast, or baggage storage at Orlando International Airport MCO.

Best Hotels for Cruisers in Port Canaveral
Some cruisers opt to arrive in the area a day or two early and stay in Orlando to enjoy the many theme parks and attractions there. Others, however, prefer a hotel option close to Port Canaveral, in the city of Cape Canaveral, that offers shuttle service to the port (although this may come at a cost).
Best Beachfront Hotels Near the Port Canaveral Cruise Port
If you'd like to spend a little extra time relaxing on the beach before or after your cruise from Port Canaveral Cruise Port, Cocoa Beach is just a short drive away and offers several excellent beachfront hotel options. These properties put you right on the sand while still keeping you close to the cruise terminals, typically just 15 to 20 minutes by car.
Hampton Inn Cocoa Beach
Address: 3425 N Atlantic Ave, Cocoa Beach, FL 32931
Distance from Port Canaveral Cruise Port: Approximately 10 miles, about a 15-minute drive
The Hampton Inn Cocoa Beach offers direct beach access and is perfect for cruisers who want to spend time by the ocean before or after their voyage. The hotel features a complimentary hot breakfast, oceanfront pool, and modern rooms with beach views. While the hotel does not offer a cruise port shuttle, an Uber or Lyft to Port Canaveral Cruise Port typically runs $20 to $30.
Parking is available on-site, and the hotel can accommodate extended parking arrangements during your cruise. The beachfront location makes this an ideal choice for families looking to enjoy the sand and surf.
Book the Hampton Inn Cocoa Beach
Best Western Cocoa Beach Hotel & Suites
Address: 5600 N Atlantic Ave, Cocoa Beach, FL 32931
Distance from Port Canaveral Cruise Port: Approximately 12 miles, about a 20-minute drive
Best Western Cocoa Beach Hotel & Suites sits directly on the beach and provides a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere. The property includes a complimentary breakfast, oceanfront pool, and spacious suites with kitchenettes. While there is no shuttle to the cruise port, rideshare options are readily available, with rides to Port Canaveral Cruise Port costing around $25 to $35.
On-site parking is available, and the hotel can arrange for vehicles to be stored during cruises. The beachfront setting and close proximity to Cocoa Beach Pier make this a great spot to unwind before embarking.
Book the Best Western Cocoa Beach
Beachside Hotel & Suites
Address: 3500 Ocean Beach Blvd, Cocoa Beach, FL 32931
Distance from Port Canaveral Cruise Port: Approximately 13 miles, about a 15-minute drive
Beachside Hotel & Suites is a charming beachfront property that combines a great location with solid amenities. The hotel offers a complimentary breakfast, two pools (including one heated), and comfortable rooms with ocean or pool views. Beach access is immediate, making it easy to enjoy the sun and sand.
The hotel does not provide a shuttle to Port Canaveral Cruise Port, but rideshare services are convenient and cost approximately $22 to $32. Parking is available for guests, and extended parking can be arranged for those cruising. This property is a wonderful choice for cruisers seeking a beachfront experience while staying near the port.
Titusville Hotel Option
Casa Coquina del Mar in Titusville
Address: 4010 Coquina Avenue, Titusville, FL 32780
If you are looking for more of an experience than just a place to lay your head before your cruise, consider Casa Coquina del Mar in Titusville. This charming bed and breakfast is a five minute drive to Enchanted Forest Sanctuary and the United States Astronaut Hall of Fame, and about fifteen minutes from the port and the Kennedy Space Center.



Top Things to Do in Orlando Before a Cruise
Orlando is not right by Port Canaveral, but there is so much to do in the city that many cruisers add a day or two before or after their sailing to explore. If you are traveling with kids, want local culture, or just a fun pre or post cruise adventure, these are great picks.
Walt Disney World Resort
This is the iconic Orlando spot. Spend a day at Walt Disney World parks such as Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney's Hollywood Studios, or Disney's Animal Kingdom. If time is tight, pick one park and focus on a few headliners with a morning rope drop or an evening fireworks plan.
Consider staying near Disney Springs for easy dining without a park ticket. If you're like me and love to ball on a budget, you can also just explore Disney Springs as its own attraction.
Related: Book Orlando experiences on Viator
Universal Orlando Resort
Visit Universal Orlando Resort for Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, and the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. For one-day visits, choose the park with the attractions you care about most, or add the Park-to-Park option to ride the Hogwarts Express between areas of the Wizarding World.
CityWalk adds dining, mini golf, and nightlife without a ticket. I've many times gone just to CityWalk (not even going to Universal) and it's always a great time.
Related: Book Universal Orlando tickets and tours
SeaWorld Orlando
Combine marine life exhibits with thrill rides and shows at SeaWorld Orlando. It is an easy fit for partial days, with roller coasters, animal encounters, and seasonal festivals. Check the show schedule in advance and group nearby exhibits to minimize walking.
Related: Book SeaWorld Orlando tickets
ICON Park and The Wheel
Ride The Wheel and explore attractions, dining, and bars at ICON Park. Pair it with Madame Tussauds or SEA LIFE Aquarium for an easy evening. The Wheel is weather dependent, so check operations if storms are in the forecast.
Related: Book The Wheel at ICON Park
International Drive
Find attractions, outlets, and dining along International Drive. Mix quick attractions like mini golf or an escape room with shopping at the outlets. It's very touristy, totally kitsch, but a lot of fun, and a must-do if you've never been to Orlando.
Related: Book I Drive activities
Downtown Orlando and Lake Eola
Stroll the lakeside path and nearby venues at Lake Eola Park. Time your visit for the weekend market, then explore nearby coffee shops, Thornton Park dining, or the Dr. Phillips Center schedule for an evening show.
Related: Book downtown Orlando experiences
Orlando Science Center and Museums
Hands on exhibits at the Orlando Science Center make a solid family day. Add nearby museums or Winter Park's Charles Hosmer Morse Museum for a culture-forward itinerary with air conditioning and easy parking.
Related: Book Orlando museum and attraction tickets
Gatorland
See alligators and wildlife at Gatorland. It is an easy to navigate classic Florida experience with shaded boardwalks, zipline add-ons, and photo ops. Plan 2 to 3 hours and arrive early on hot days. I've done this attraction a few times, and it's always been fun, but that Orlando heat and humidity is no joke, so I only go now when the weather doesn't feel like Satan's armpit.
Shopping and Outlets
Shop Orlando International Premium Outlets or The Mall at Millenia. Outlets are best in the morning before crowds. Millenia is a polished, indoor option for heat or rain days with plenty of dining nearby.
Related: Book Orlando shopping shuttles and experiences
Arts and Gardens
Stroll Harry P. Leu Gardens, see a show at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, or visit the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum in Winter Park for its Tiffany glass collection. Pair gardens with nearby dining on Corrine Drive or Park Avenue.
Related: Book Orlando gardens and culture tours
Dining
Dine at Disney Springs for celebrity chef spots, or explore Milk District, Mills 50, or Winter Park for local favorites and global cuisine. For a short visit, choose one destination area and make an advance reservation to save time.
👉 View the Port Canaveral Cruise Port Ship Schedule 🛳️

Best Way to Get from MCO to Port Canaveral
Meet Emile and Manny! They're my go-to private drivers in Orlando, and let me tell you what a treasure they are. I tried over and over again to find a great private driver option in Orlando, since I've had success in other major cruise port locations, but all of the companies were super expensive and/or not great at communication. But these two get it. They understand the need to offer reasonable pricing in an expensive market and their hospitality is second-to-none.
Orlando is also a great homeport to hire a private driver, because they can also coordinate with you visits to other Orlando sites for a half or full-day tour before or after your cruise. They can also make a pit stop for you en route to Port Canaveral for any last minute essentials.
Plus, they have a special discounted rountrip transfer service from MCO to/from Port Canaveral just for my friends. ;)

Top Things to Do in Port Canaveral Before a Cruise
Port Canaveral sits on Florida's Space Coast with beaches, space history, and easy day trips. Many cruisers add a day or two before or after their sailing to explore nearby highlights. Here are great picks close to the port.
Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
See Space Shuttle Atlantis in its dramatic tilt, walk beneath the Saturn V at the Apollo/Saturn V Center, and take a bus tour past historic launch pads. Add the Shuttle Launch Experience, IMAX films, and astronaut meet-and-greets for a full day. If a launch aligns with your dates, arrive early and expect heavier traffic.
Visit the official site.
Related: Book Kennedy Space Center tickets and tours
Cocoa Beach and Cocoa Beach Pier
Relax on wide sandy beaches minutes from the port, rent chairs and umbrellas, or try a beginner-friendly surf lesson. The Cocoa Beach Pier offers fishing, casual restaurants, and great ocean views. Parking lots fill on weekends, so arrive earlier and bring a small beach bag for quick pack-up. See the Cocoa Beach Pier info.
Related: Book Cocoa Beach activities
Jetty Park
Watch cruise ships glide through the channel, stroll the long fishing pier, and enjoy a family-friendly beach and playground. It's one of the best ship-spotting spots near sailaway. Bring a light jacket for breezy evenings and check parking availability on busy weekends. Visit the Jetty Park page for complete info.
Related: Book Space Coast coastal experiences
Exploration Tower
When open for events and limited hours, this seven-story landmark offers exhibits on the port's history plus sweeping views of the channel and coastline from upper decks. Time your visit for late afternoon to catch golden-hour photos if ships are departing.
Check info via Visit Space Coast.
Related: Book Port Canaveral sightseeing
Ron Jon Surf Shop Flagship
Browse the iconic 24-hour flagship for swimsuits, boards, sun gear, and souvenirs. It's a convenient stop for last-minute beach essentials before hitting the sand or heading to your ship. Expect weekend crowds; late evenings are quieter. See the official Cocoa Beach store page.
Related: Book a Cocoa Beach surf lesson
Bioluminescence Kayaking
On warm, dark nights, paddle the Banana River or Indian River Lagoon to see glowing trails of light with every stroke. Peak viewing is typically summer through early fall, with new-moon nights offering the best contrast. Wear quick-dry clothing and plan for a late return. Learn more via Visit Space Coast.
Related: Book a bioluminescent kayak tour
Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge
Drive Black Point Wildlife Drive for close-up looks at wading birds, alligators, and seasonal manatees. Stop at the manatee observation areas in cooler months and bring binoculars for sunrise or sunset viewing when wildlife is most active. Visit the official refuge site.
Related: Book a Space Coast wildlife tour
Canaveral Lock and Ship Spotting
Watch boats rise and fall as the lock connects the Banana River to the port channel, then keep an eye out for manatees and dolphins. Pair this stop with a meal at a waterfront restaurant to see cruise ships pass the channel at sail away. See details on the Canaveral Lock page.
Related: Book a Port Canaveral boat tour
Historic Cocoa Village
Wander brick-lined streets for boutique shopping, galleries, and coffee spots near the Indian River. Check the event calendar for art festivals and evening concerts, and plan dinner on Harrison Street or Brevard Avenue. Visit the official Cocoa Village site.
Related: Book Cocoa area tours
Manatee Sanctuary Park
Stroll paved waterfront paths with interpretive signs in Cape Canaveral and look for manatees congregating near warm-water spots in cooler months. Morning and late afternoon are most peaceful for wildlife viewing and photos. See info on Manatee Sanctuary Park.
Port Canaveral Cruise Port FAQs
How early should I arrive before my cruise at Port Canaveral?
How far is Port Canaveral from Orlando International Airport (MCO)?
Can I walk between terminals at Port Canaveral?
What’s the best way to get from MCO to Port Canaveral?
How do rocket launches affect traffic at Port Canaveral?
Exploring Port Canaveral Cruise Port
Port Canaveral isn’t just a spot to board your ship, but it’s also packed with dining, shopping, and entertainment. Whether you have a few hours or a full day pre- or post-cruise, the surrounding Space Coast offers natural beauty, space-age history, and classic Florida fun.
The top nearby attraction is the Kennedy Space Center, just a short drive from the cruise terminals. Tour real spacecraft, see rockets up close, and explore NASA’s rich history, or even catch a launch if your dates match up. For convenience, check out Viator for tour and ticket bundles.
Minutes from the port, Cocoa Beach is ideal for unwinding on the sand before or after your cruise, while the Exploration Tower offers panoramic views of ships, the port, and the coast.
From space exploration to surf and fresh seafood, there’s something memorable for every cruiser near Port Canaveral.
Video: Port Canaveral Cruise Port Guide
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