Port Canaveral Cruise Day Guide 2025 | Hotels, Parking & Transfers
2025 Port Canaveral Cruise Day Guide: Hotels, Parking & Easy Transfers
Embarking on a Disney, Royal Caribbean, or Carnival cruise from Port Canaveral? Here’s everything you need to know—from the closest airports and hotel packages to the quickest, most comfortable way to reach the terminal.
Port Canaveral is America’s busiest cruise port and sits roughly 45–47 miles east of Orlando International Airport (MCO). In normal traffic the drive takes about 50–60 minutes on SR 528—so planning your ground transportation is critical to a smooth sail-away day. in
Which Airport Should You Fly Into?
- MCO (Orlando International) – 45 mi / ~55 min drive.
- SFB (Orlando Sanford) – 64 mi / ~1 h 15 min.
- MLB (Melbourne Orlando) – 26 mi / ~40 min.
Tip: Even if flights into MLB look closer, MCO usually offers more nonstop options and earlier arrival times—handy when cruises depart the same day.
Best “Snooze & Cruise” Hotels Near Port Canaveral
Flying in the night before? These Cocoa Beach / Cape Canaveral properties include shuttle or parking bundles popular with cruisers:
- Homewood Suites Cape Canaveral
- SpringHill Suites Cocoa Beach
- Country Inn & Suites Port Canaveral
- Radisson Resort at the Port
Most sell out 3-4 months ahead during peak sailings—book early.
Ground Transportation Comparison
| Option | Typical Cost* | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private car / limo (Grayson TownCar) | $150–$220 per vehicle | Door-to-door, luggage help, flight-delay monitoring | Higher upfront price for solo travelers |
| Shared shuttle bus | $30–$45 per person | Budget friendly for singles | Multiple stops, fixed departure times |
| Uber / Lyft | $70–$120+ | On-demand | Surge pricing, limited XL vehicles |
| Rental car | $60–$90 / day + gas + parking | Freedom to explore | Drop-off logistics, parking garage fees |
*April 2025 averages; subject to change.
Why Many Cruisers Choose a Private Transfer
- Zero Stress – Your chauffeur meets you inside baggage claim, assists with luggage, and departs on your schedule.
- All-Inclusive Pricing – No per-person fees. Large families often save vs. shuttle tickets.
- Family Amenities – Complimentary car seats, boosters, and a free grocery stop for last-minute cruise snacks.
Reserve Your Port Canaveral Transfer Now
Secure a clean, spacious SUV or van with instant online booking. Our team tracks flights in real time, so if your plane is early or late, we’ll adjust automatically.
- See our full fleet & service levels
- Learn more about Grayson TownCar
- Got questions? Check our Transportation FAQs or contact us anytime.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the drive from Orlando Airport (MCO) to Port Canaveral?
Roughly 45–47 miles; expect about 55 minutes in average traffic.
Do Port Canaveral shuttles run after 8 PM?
Most shared shuttles stop by early evening; private transfers like Grayson TownCar operate 24/7 for late arrivals.
Can I book round-trip transportation?
Yes—select round-trip at checkout and lock in both embarkation and debarkation rides.
