Royal Caribbean is celebrating a monumental day today when the largest cruise ship ever built, Icon of the Seas, sails its inaugural cruise from PortMiami. However, the cruise line’s next two new ships will sail cruises from the world’s busiest cruise port, Port Canaveral.
Royal Caribbean is the world’s largest cruise line with 27 cruise ships in service. They have three more cruise ships on order/under construction that will debut over the next few years. The next two, Utopia of the Sea and Star of the Seas, will both homeport at Port Canaveral, Florida.
Utopia of the Seas will be the sixth and largest Oasis class ship. It will be the first Oasis class powered by LNG and will sail her inaugural cruise this summer on July 22, 2024.
Utopia of the Seas will sail three and four night cruises to The Bahamas. This is unique because it’s unheard for a brand new cruise ship to sail short cruises to The Bahamas. The four night cruises will depart every Monday with the three night weekend cruises leaving every Friday. All cruises will visit Perfect Day at CocoCay, the cruise line’s insanely popular private island.
Sponsored Links
The cruise ship will have all of the popular features of Oasis class ship like Central Park and the Boardwalk. The vessel will also have some new concepts like Royal Railway, a unique dining experience that will mimic train rides all around the world.
Utopia of the Seas will have more than 40 dining and drink venues and a new Caribbean tiki bar that will replace the robot bartenders found on other Oasis class ships.
Izumi will be imagined and relocated to Central Park. It will also have a pick-up window for fresh sushi and Japanese street food.
Our free cruise newsletter offers the latest cruise news and deals: Sign Up
Star of the Seas will be the second Icon class ship from Royal Caribbean and will sail her maiden voyage on August 17, 2025 from Port Canaveral.
While Royal Caribbean has a tradition of making each new ship in a class slightly larger than the previous one, they have yet to announce if that will be the case for Star of the Seas.
In a press conference that took place on Icon of the Seas this week, Royal Caribbean Group CEO Jason Liberty talked about how the cruise line builds large cruise ships. He said that they don’t start off by wanting to build the largest ships, they just add amenities that they know guests will love and the ships just have to be large to fit everything in. Their focus is on experiences, not on the size of cruise ships.
Star of the Seas will have all of the great new features that Icon of the Seas has like Thrill Waterpark and Surfside neighborhood that is custom designed for families with small children. For adrenaline seekers, Crown’s Edge is a mini zip line that takes you over the side of the ship, 150 feet above the water.
Star of the Seas will sail seven night cruises every Sunday from Port Canaveral to the Caribbean. Some cruises will sail to the Eastern Caribbean while others will sail to the Western Caribbean. View Prices on Cruises on Star of the Seas
Ports that the cruise ship will visit include Cozumel, St. Kitts, St. Maarten, Roatan, and San Juan, Puerto Rico.
And of course, the cruise ship will also stop for a day at CocoCay.
Sponsored Links
These two cruise ships will join Wonder of the Seas, Adventure of the Seas, Voyager of the Seas, Allure of the Seas, Mariner of the Seas in offering cruises from Central Florida port.
Norwegian Cruise Line has announced brand new cruises from Port Canaveral and New Orleans that will sail to the Eastern and Western Caribbean later this year.
NCL revealed new itineraries for 2024 on two cruise ships, Norwegian Getaway and Norwegian Epic. Norwegian Getaway will sail from New Orleans starting on October 24, 2024 and Norwegian Epic from Port Canaveral on October 30, 2024. These new cruises will open for bookings in February.
Norwegian stated that the reason for these new cruises is due to strong demand for sailings to warm-weather destinations in the winter. Both ships will sail in Europe this summer before heading to their new homeports this fall.
Sponsored Links
Our free cruise newsletter offers the latest cruise news and deals: Sign Up
“The Caribbean continues to be a hotspot for our guests all around the world, especially during the fall and winter seasons,” said David J. Herrera, president of Norwegian Cruise Line. “We are constantly looking to provide our guests with the best vacation possible especially from accessible homeports, and it was a no-brainer to bring two of our largest ships to sail more picturesque, tropical cruises from New Orleans and Port Canaveral, Florida.”
Both cruise ships offer a variety of amenities that cruisers will love. Norwegian Epic has 34 restaurants, lounges and bars while Norwegian Getaway has 40. They also have waterparks on the top deck with exciting waterslides.
These new cruises can be booked with the cruise line’s Free at Sea. This includes free drink packages, WiFi, specialty dining, airfare credit, and shore excursion credits.
After spending three fast-paced days on Icon of the Seas, I found there were several things about the ship that surprised me. And no, they weren’t anything to do with the size of the ship.
Photo credit: Cruise Fever
I was an invited guest on Icon of the Seas and was able to attend the Naming Ceremony with soccer legend Lionel Messi as the “Icon of the Icon”. The inaugural sailing for Icon is this Saturday.
After the excitement of the ceremony and festivities I was really able to explore the ship deck by deck and get a certain vibe from the vessel.
Anyone who has heard of this ship already knows it’s the largest cruise ship in the world. That was no surprise. Although, it didn’t feel any bigger than any of the other Oasis-class vessels I’ve sailed on. In fact, it felt a little smaller and more intimate than the previous largest ship class in the world.
Sponsored Links
More on this later.
Here are the elements of Icon of the Seas that surprised me the most. And I think upcoming Royal Caribbean passengers will agree on most points.
1. The seamless navigation and flow
I was amazed at how well-connected various neighborhoods and spaces were on the ship. Navigating from neighborhood to neighborhood was simple and flowed easily.
For instance, I’m writing this from Central Park on the ship right now. And if I wanted to head down to the iconic Pearl on the Royal Promenade just a couple decks below, there is a set of elegant stairs with access right in the middle of the park.
View of the ocean from seats on Central Park on Icon of the Seas
There is even a large, curved wall of glass in Central Park that allows passengers to see the outside of the pearl, but more importantly they can see the ocean itself. This was never possible in Central Park on any other Royal Caribbean ship.
The connection to the sea from even interior parts of the vessel is very apparent throughout Icon.
From the Surfside neighborhood there is a set of stairs going up to Central Park and going down to the Royal Promenade, all clearly marked and easy to navigate.
Even after a day of walking around the ship I found it very easy to get from point A to point B with less tine and effort than even smaller ships with the cruise line.
2. The vibrant colors of the ship
Photo credit: Cruise Fever
Royal Caribbean broke out the color palette with Icon of the Seas. You don’t have to look around very long before you see pops of color that are bold, bright, and sometimes pastel. This is most noticeable on the pool decks, where everything from the bright blue and green loungers to the interior curves of the walls are splashed with colors that remind you of vacation in the Caribbean and Bahamas.
The artwork, décor, and overall vibe is one of color. From the onboard cabanas, wicker chairs, bamboo plated walls, and shutters along the interior facing cabins, there are hues aplenty.
Sponsored Links
3. How unlike an Oasis-class ship this is
I know this is an entirely new ship class. But ever since the idea of Icon of the Seas was introduced it led to comparisons to the successful Oasis-class vessels. And in terms of size, it’s much more comparable to Oasis than any other class.
But I was surprised at just how different this ship is from Oasis. The Royal Promenade and its iconic Pearl, the completely redesigned ice-skating rink at Absolute Zero, the entirely transformed and family-friendly Surfside, and the contrasts of Thrill Island and Chill Island make Icon of the Seas a completely new cruise ship for certain.
And sometimes the changes were subtle, like how the huge sports court was moved above a casual dining venue at Basecamp to open up the areas below a lot more. And how Cloud 17 is an extra deck above the busier pool deck while still having easy access to the largest water park at sea.
Our free cruise newsletter offers the latest cruise news and deals: Sign Up
Of course, a concept like The Hideaway are completely new. The aft-facing infinity pool with it’s cozy daybeds and great views is going to be a very popular spot. Add in the fact that the entire space is adult-only, has padded loungers and two large hot tubs, and this space will be an attractive allure for guests over 18.
But the biggest difference is the incredible AquaDome and Overlook at the front of the ship. There is no solarium on the ship, but The Overlook quickly became my favorite spot on the ship which I will talk about in the last point. By the way, I absolutely loved the AquaDome Market with its variety of foods and floor to ceiling windows. If you’re in the mood for crepes, macaroni and cheese, Asian food, or a panini, this is the place to be.
4. The quality of entertainment
By calling this a surprise I don’t mean it as a slight. What I mean is that the attention to detail, level of technology and craftsmanship that go into each production – it all exceeded my expectations.
The production of the Wizard of Oz was spectacular in its quality of acting, props, and tech. But the cherry on top is the live orchestra of 16+ instrumentalists that add so much to the whole production. Hearing Dorothy sing “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” with live strings in the Royal Theater is not something you want to miss.
AquaTheater on Icon of the Seas. Photo credit: Cruise Fever
I also attended an ice-skating show at Absolute Zero that was absolutely stunning in its lighting, effects, and talent of the performers. And having guest star and juggler extraordinaire Viktor Kee was just the icing on the cake.
On the last night of the 3-day sailing I was able to attend a show in the AquaDome. Needless to say, it was the most unique performance I’ve ever seen on a cruise ship. This was just a sneak peek of the shows to come on the ship as this sailing was pre-inaugural, but I think cruise passengers are going to really love the AquaTheater shows in this space.
Sponsored Links
Once again, the quality of the technology and performance was unparalleled at sea. The usage of light projecting onto the canvas of the dome and robots to add lighting effects, and powerful water fountains, along with talented divers, made it a very entertaining experience. The backless seats of the AquaDome worked out since most people were on the edge of their seats anyway.
5. How beautiful and relaxing many spaces were
The Overlook inside the AquaDome on Icon of the Seas. Photo credit: Cruise Fever
Sometimes we get lost in the statistics of a ship. And while Icon of the Seas is the largest cruise ship in the world, it’s also one of the most beautiful. The Overlook is one of the most stunning, relaxing, and calming spaces I’ve seen on a ship. Much like a solarium, the entire area is sun-soaked, but the seating is so cozy and inviting as there are numerous spots to nestle in and enjoy the view from the peaceful quietness.
I can see myself spending hours in this area on a sea day. Pictures don’t do it justice. But it’s conveniently located right next to the Rye and Bean which as some great coffee options that I enjoyed during the sailing. And the AquaDome Market is right next to it as well, which was often less busy than the Windjammer buffet area.
Photo Credit: Cruise Fever
Another beautiful spot was the Pearl Café. You can find this dining and beverage venue at the top of the steps of the Pearl. There is a huge window that overlooks the ocean and plenty of plush couches and chairs to take in the view. A lovely artwork piece of a Humpback whale hangs over the area, and it’s just a wonderful spot to charge your phone, meet with family and friends, or just enjoy the ocean.
And if you want another beautiful space to enjoy from the Pearl Café, you can just walk up the steps right into the heart of Central Park. As I mentioned in the first point, everything on this ship is connected so seamlessly that it makes navigating a 250,800 gross ton vessel a breeze.
We will be posting many more pictures, videos, and articles on Icon of the Seas in the coming days and weeks. We posted a lot of pictures from our social media accounts this past week, so check them out if you’d like to get up to speed as well.
See Icon of the Seas images and videos on X (formerly Twitter) here.
I am currently on Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas, the largest cruise ship ever built. It’s a three night preview cruise for members of the media and travel agents before the ship’s inaugural voyage this weekend.
Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas (Left) is the largest cruise ship ever built and will sail its inaugural cruise this weekend from Miami. Photo Credit: Cruise Fever
After spending a few nights onboard, here are my first impressions of Icon of the Seas.
One of the first things that stood out to be about the Icon of the Seas is the amount of space on the ship. The Royal Promenade is so much more open that other Royal Caribbean cruise ships and all of the venues have open facades instead of a doorway to get in them.
While Icon of the Seas is a brand new class of ships, those who have sailed on an Oasis class vessel will find the basic layout of the ship semi-familiar but with one key difference. The cruise line connected the neighborhoods and it’s much easier to get from one to another now.
Sponsored Links
There’s a stairway to get from the Royal Promenade to Central Park. From Surfside, which is located where Boardwalk is on Oasis class ships, you can go straight to Central Park or the Royal Promenade from it. I believe this will greatly improve the flow of traffic around the ship for those who are concerned with the number of passengers the ship carries.
Another pain point that Royal Caribbean looks to have fixed is the elevators. The hallway where the elevators are located is huge and there’s 10 in each one. They are smart elevators, you push the floor you are going to and it tells you which elevator to get in.
At a press briefing yesterday, the cruise line said that they are using AI with the elevators to move people around the ship faster. Even though the new system is already faster than the old one, they said in a few months that they will be able to tweak it for optimal performance based on data from the first few cruises.
Icon of the Seas is very colorful, from the shutters in Central Park to the main pool deck. Since the ship is sailing to the Caribbean, it instantly puts you in vacation mode.
There are more than 40 dining and drink venues on Icon of the Seas. I’m been attempting to try as many of them as possible on this three day cruise. We will have a complete rundown of everywhere to eat on this ship when the cruise is over. So far, it’s been great.
Royal Caribbean has replaced Cafe Promenade with the Pearl Cafe and it’s one of the best changes Royal Caribbean did on this ship. There’s a 25-30 foot glass window which provides a great view of the ocean while you’re sailing. I am actually sitting there right now writing this first impressions article.
Under all of the couches, there are 110 outlets and USB, including USB-C, so you can plug in laptops and phones and work in this space. More people than ever are working while on cruises and this area is going to be popular for that.
Our free cruise newsletter offers the latest cruise news and deals: Sign Up
Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas docked in CocoCay ahead of its inaugural voyage. Photo Credit: Cruise Fever
Royal Caribbean has really raised the bar on entertainment on Icon of the Seas. Yesterday, I was able to view STARBURST: Elemental Beauty in Absolute Zero, the cruise line’s new oval ice rink. For those who know me, you know I’m usually not into most cruise entertainment. However, this show was phenomenal and loved how they brought in Viktor Kee as a guest star in it. I remember watching him make it into the top 10 on America’s Got Talent and he’s the most incredible juggler I’ve ever seen.
The biggest headliner show on Icon of the Seas is a full stage production of The Wizard of Oz. I was able to catch the first half of the show yesterday (had dinner so missed the second half) but plan on watching the rest of it today as it will have two more performances. Anyone who is a fan of the classic movie is going to love this show.
The AquaDome is something you have to see and experience. It’s also a great lounge during the day with incredible views over the ship’s bow.
The Dueling Pianos venue is a hit and standing room only.
Sponsored Links
We are staying in an ocean view balcony cabin on deck 8. It has a decent size shower, plenty of power outlets, a couch, and a good size balcony. It has everything you need for a cruise.
The crew have been awesome as always. When I was getting a Coke on CocoCay, the bartender saw me and said, you came into the Schooner Bar the other day and also ordered a Coke. I didn’t remember him but he remembered me. Royal Caribbean does have some of the best crew members in the industry.
For those who have young children, you’re going to love Surfside. I have a three year old boy and wish he was here with me. He will never want to leave Surfside and it’s such a great space for kids.
Located where Boardwalk is on Oasis class ship, Surfside takes up this entire area and has everything from a waterpark to restaurants. It’s far and away the best area at sea for families with young children.
I have not seen Rover yet, the resident dog on Icon of the Seas. She’s a Golden Retriever and I heard she will spend a lot of time in Surfside with the kids.
The Royal Promenade on Icon of the Seas with The Pearl serving as the crown jewel of this area.
In an effort to connect guests to the sea as much as possible, you can now see the ocean from Central Park.
I am going to go and experience more of Icon of the Seas. There’s the world’s largest cruise ship waterpark on the top deck calling my name and other features that I need to check out before I get off the ship tomorrow.
Cruise Fever will have more about this brand new cruise ship once the cruise is over so stay tuned for those articles. You can follow along on our cruise on Icon of the Seas on Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok (Username: @CruiseFever).
Last week, the world’s largest cruise ship, Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas, arrived in Miami for the first time. The ship is scheduled to sail its inaugural cruise next weekend after being christened by soccer great Lionel Messi.
Icon of the Seas is the first cruise ship to ever cross the 250,000 gross ton mark. Cruise ships are measured in size by gross tonnage, not the actually weight of the vessel. It’s about 7% larger than the previous largest cruise ship, Wonder of the Seas.
Icon of the Seas is the first Royal Caribbean cruise ship to be powered by LNG. The cruise line stated that it’s expected to reduce sulfur emissions by almost 100% and carbon emissions by around 30%. It’s the cruise line’s greenest and most environmentally friendly ship to date.
Sponsored Links
Here is a look at energy management, water management, and waste management on Icon of the Seas and the different things that Royal Caribbean is doing to make it their most environmentally friendly cruise ship.
Energy Management
Icon of the Seas is powered by six duel-fuel engines with the ability to use liquified natural gas (LNG). When a port is equipped with shore power, the ship will plug into the grid and will be able to operate without using the engines.
Royal Caribbean is using AI based technologies to optimize the ship’s routes for maximum efficiency.
Our free cruise newsletter offers the latest cruise news and deals: Sign Up
An air lubrication system will send microscopic air bubbles under the hull that will reduce friction and allow the ship to use less fuel when sailing from port to port. This helps reduce CO2 emissions by 5-10%.
Excess heat produced by the ship’s six engines will be captured, harnessed, and repurposed instead of being wasted.
Water Management
Icon of the Seas is equipped with a wastewater management system that treats every drop of water above regulatory standards.
The ship has its own environmental officer who tests the water daily and overseas all initiatives and training.
More than 93% of the ship’s freshwater is produced on board using a reverse osmosis/desalination plant.
The cruise ship also has ballast water treatment that prevents non-native species from being transported from port to port.
Waste Management
Icon of the Seas has a waste-to-energy system that uses Microwave-Assisted Pyrolysis technology that turns trash into energy that the ship can use.
The ship has a strict recycling program to ensure that 90% of trash on board never reaches a landfill. It has a state-of-the-art waste management room that is fully equipped to manage a single-stream recycling process.
Sponsored Links
Royal Caribbean has a dedicated team on board that will use a custom-built app to reduce food waste.
Icon of the Seas will sail week long cruises from Terminal A in PortMiami to the Caribbean each week. Every cruise will visit the cruise line’s popular private island in The Bahamas, Perfect Day at CocoCay.
The ship is the first of three Icon class ships from Royal Caribbean, the world’s largest cruise line.
Some activities and traditions on cruise ships are just – well, weird to some people. But there’s no judgement here. Everyone has a different style of cruising.
We at Cruise Fever, feel that’s one of the best parts of taking a cruise. People with all kinds of tastes and ideas of the perfect vacation can have an amazing time on the same ship.
Photo credit: Cruise Fever
Still, we thought it would be fun to look at some “cruise things” that just don’t make sense to everyone. This ideas were inspired by a topic posted on Reddit this week.
You might identify with some of these, but the point is to take a lighthearted look at the cruise industry that we all love and know.
Sponsored Links
Love or hate them, any regular cruiser can identify with most of these.
You can find art galleries and art auctions on any mainstream cruise line. And while some art connoisseurs love to admire and even buy various paintings on board, not everyone has the same appreciation.
In fact, — and let’s be real here – some show up just for the free beverages that are often served at art auctions. But if you’re an art lover, you can enjoy pieces of some the latest and greatest, and the cruise line will ship the painting to your home. After all, who wants to explain that huge box to customs.
2. Buying gold by the inch
Purchasing a 14k gold-plated chain by the inch is a tradition for some. Any regular cruiser has walked by the promenade or shops and has seen these rolls of gold necklaces that come in various thicknesses. While its quality has been called into question, buying it by the inch is certainly an interesting concept.
3. Overly competitive trivia players
As a cruise trivia lover myself, I’ve seen some aggressive trivia players on cruise ships. You can often find trivia topics that run the gamut when you look at the daily planner, but some passengers take it to another level. You know the ones. They are combative about every answer and debate its accuracy while attempting to cheat for the grand prize of a cruise line branded foam cup sleeve.
4. Just lounging on deck
The feeling of just doing nothing while soaking in the sun in a deck chair or lounger is a favorite pastime for many cruise-goers. But not everyone gets it. “Why lay in the hot sun and get sun -burned so you can be miserable for the rest of the trip?” is a common thought. And while using sunscreen could prevent this kind of problem, some prefer to either be more active on a ship, or at least find a shady spot to enjoy a good book. The main conflict for some is often that they want to relax but the pool deck is on the noisy side.
Not everyone feels the intense need to decorate their cabin door. But those that do will typically go all out. Decking out the stateroom door with a personal, festive touch is a great way for passengers to find their own cabin on those days they’re not in complete control of their faculties. It’s also just a fun way to let every passerby know a little about you. Still, it’s a strange concept for some cruisers and definitely not something you see so often on land.
6. Spending all day in the casino
What I often call “the donation center” on a cruise ship, the casino is almost always full of passengers – as soon as the ship leaves port and the area can open, that is. Some passengers will spend most of a sea day here. They will sit at the slots until they need physical therapy from the onboard fitness specialist for repeated wrist or elbow movements. And while it’s baffling to me, you can always find someone hoping to strike it rich while on vacation. For those who don’t want a casino on board there’s always a Viking ship, which has no casino at all.
Sponsored Links
7. The overcrowded main pool
On a busy sea day the main pool on a cruise ship can get a little crowded. Ok, it can get completely packed, depending on the cruise line and how the cruise ship is designed. For some reason, some passengers don’t seem to mind this. It reminds me of the old Yogi Berra axiom, “No one goes there anymore because it’s too crowded.”
By the way, pools aren’t always jam packed on a cruise ship, and much of it depends on the time of day, demographic on board, and how many other pools are available elsewhere.
In a day when everyone has an amazing camera in their pockets, it’s hard for some to fathom paying so much money for pictures on a cruise. I totally get this. But every few cruises I will buy on board photos when I want something a little more professional. And the cruise photographers I have worked with have done such an amazing job. It’s a high stress-job for sure, and something I would not want to do myself. But I do wonder if the trend of the photo paparazzi on mainstream lines will morph into something else down the road.
9. Cruise ducks
With more cruise lines talking about banning rubber ducks, this fad may have its days numbered. The trend of hiding rubber ducks on a ship and letting other people find them to either keep or hide again began in 2018 or earlier. Now the colorful duckies can be found on ships across the world. While a fun thing for kids –and kids at heart who want to hoard them–, these ducks are often used for marketing personal and business social media accounts as well. Whatever the fate of these rubber bath toys may be, I’m sure you will be able to find people on both sides of the issue.
10. Having to be back on the ship by a certain time
Cruise ships offer a fantastic way to see many places in the world, all while sleeping in the same bed each night. But it’s difficult to have a truly immersive experience when you only get 6-7 hours to see the city around a cruise port and have to be back before supper. When you are really enjoying a destination and want to stay a little longer, the pull of having to get back on the ship is one filled with mixed emotions.
Veranda cabin on Celebrity Edge. Photo Credit: Cruise Fever
11. Only being in the cabin to sleep and shower
Not everyone has this viewpoint. But some cruisers will say they don’t care what kind of cabin they book because they will only be in it to sleep and freshen up. These must be some very active cruisers, because personally, I like to take a nap, read a book, or enjoy a private balcony in my stateroom now and then as well. While it can save a lot of money by booking an interior cabin you will only use for sleep, it’s hard for others to comprehend how this can be enjoyable.
Our free cruise newsletter offers the latest cruise news and deals: Sign Up
There are plenty of places to enjoy the day on a cruise ship if you’re a shopaholic. And there’s always a sale going on at one of the shops on board. But after spending a good deal of money to book a cruise it’s strange to some that a cruise-goer would want to hit the shops like their at the mall. Sure, there’s the duty-free aspect of it, but the onboard spending can get out of hand very quickly.
Sponsored Links
13. Dressing up for formal nights
This is a topic that often divides cruisers. And some cruise lines have done away with formal nights altogether. But for those who love to dress their best and experience the tradition of maritime formality at dinner, there are still many cruise ships that will gladly oblige on certain nights.
Whether you dress up or not, just be sure to be respectful of other passengers. If you dress up, don’t look down on those who don’t. And if you wear a hoodie to the MDR, let the guy in the fancy tuxedo feel like James Bond for the night.
14. Overly zealous cruise loyalists
We’ve all seen the posts on social media. People love to brag about their favorite cruise line. And why not? I love it when a cruiser finds just the right cruise line for them. But some take it to a level that is a tad overzealous. I prefer to let the cruise lines be competitive with each other while the cruisers themselves all get along and book wherever works best for them. A Carnival cruiser can still be friends with a Royal Caribbean loyalist, right?
Cruise lines have cut down on towel animals in the last few years, but it’s still a cruise tradition that’s hard to let go. On my last MSC cruise I was surprised to see so many towel animals in my stateroom. I admire the time, patience, and expertise it takes to fold a piece of cotton into hundreds of different creatures. But with cruise lines wanting to streamline their costs, the days of towel animals may be fading as well.
16. Planning a day around food
Some find it odd that a person would book a 7-day cruise and then be completely consumed by what they want to consume. But a cruise has a funny way of turning even the average person into a foodie. It’s the best time to try new foods, broaden the horizons of your taste buds, and indulge in amazing foods you might never even think about on land.
Especially for those Caribbean cruises in the summer, the idea of sitting in a hot tub when it’s 99 degrees Fahrenheit on the pool deck seems a little crazy. Maybe it is, but cruisers still love to do it.
18. Bellyflop competitions
This competition, among many others, has been a cruise tradition for many years as well. Some cruise lines, like Carnival, have phased out the bellyflop competition and the hairy chest competition for more family-friendly activities on the pool deck. Still, the bellyflop poolside pastime is always one of those things you love to watch but would hate to take part in. Like a car accident or bad karaoke it’s just hard to look away.
19. Elevator rush hour
You don’t need to rush into an elevator on a cruise ship, especially before those inside had a chance to get out first. Cruise ship elevators get a bad wrap for being small and sometimes full of inconsiderate passengers, this is definitely not always the case. But feel free to read our cruise ship elevator survival guide if you’re interested.
20. Eating with strangers
You don’t have to eat with strangers if you don’t want to on most cruise ships. But the idea of going to the main dining room and eating with a total stranger boggles the minds of those who have never been on a cruise before. And while many regular cruisers still prefer to eat by themselves or with their own group, first-time cruisers often benefit from the experience of veteran cruisers at the table. But yes, it’s a little strange, since most of the time when you go to a restaurant on land you only get a table for your party.
21. Lounge chair hogs
I’d like to wave a magic wand and ban all aspects of lounge chair hogging on cruise ships. Many passengers are disappointed to find a row of 20 deck chairs “saved” with towels clipping them in place. I can understand wanting to have a lounger when you get out of the pool, but there’s really no good reason to hog a lounger for hours on end. It’s a practice many cruise lines have tried to tackle, but I’m not sure this is a battle that’s being won just yet.
You’re on vacation. So why on earth would you hit the gym and beat yourself up? Well, for many cruisers, fitness is something that makes them happy. And since they know they will be making regular trips to the buffet it helps to stay on track by burning off those calories. Again, it’s another case of different aspects of cruising appealing to different passengers.
23. Paying for Wi-Fi
If you’re on a cruise to get away from work and the hassles of technology, then paying for Wi-Fi probably seems crazy. But in a world that is so connected, some find it almost impossible to not be in touch back home or to their social media accounts to share their vacation with family and friends.
I went to a couple of these when I was a complete newbie to cruising. For some reason I thought, “How will I know what to buy in this foreign port if no one is going to guide me?”. Now, you may be someone who loves these shopping seminars, but they are not for everyone. After being to enough Diamonds International and Del Sol store fronts, I pass on these myself. But I know some who love to get the coupon books and free trinkets and gifts.
25. The newly wed gameshow
Another right of passage on a cruise ship is to at least attend the newly wed game show that most cruise ships offer. Sometimes the questions get repetitive if you’ve been to enough of these, but a good cruise director knows how to liven things up.
Final Thoughts
A cruise vacation is a unique experience. There are things you will see on a cruise ship that just don’t happen in any other setting. This post captures just a few of them, but the list could extend to 100 things if we wanted to keep going. The main point is that you don’t have to enjoy every single thing on the ship. Just find what you do like and run with it. Once you have Cruise Fever, you never want to get over it.
Celebrity Cruises has launched their biggest offer of the year that is part of their Semi-Annual Sale that will run through April 7, 2024.
Celebrity Cruises’ latest Semi-Annual Sale is good on sailings to all seven continents to nearly 300 destinations. For the first time in 2024, the cruise line will have an Edge class ship positioned in all of the top cruise destinations around the world.
The cruise line’s Semi-Annual Sale offers 75% off the second guest in a cabin on non-refundable rates and 50% off the second guest on refundable rates. Select cruises also offer up to $200 in onboard credit to spend on the ship. View Best Prices on Celebrity
Celebrity Cruises will offer their biggest Caribbean season yet with cruises ranging from three to 12 nights in length. Some cruises will also visit CocoCay for the first time. CocoCay is an award winning private island in The Bahamas that is operated by sister cruise line Royal Caribbean.
Sponsored Links
Our free cruise newsletter offers the latest cruise news and deals: Sign Up
On top of Caribbean cruises, this year Celebrity Cruises’ guests can explore Alaska like never before, soak up the history and romance of Europe’s cultural hotspots or take in the views of the Norwegian Fjords, and all from the comfort of an Edge Series ship.
Celebrity Cruises will have Celebrity Reflection, Celebrity Silhouette, and Celebrity Summit all sailing three and four night itineraries. The four night cruises will depart on Mondays with the three night weekend cruises leaving every Friday.
The cruise line will also sail new itineraries in Japan on Celebrity Millennium.
Celebrity Cruises’ Semi-Annual Sale runs through April 7, 2024 and applies to select three night and longer cruises that depart through April 2026.
The $200 in onboard credit is divided up as follows: $100 for inside and ocean view, $200 for balcony cabins and above.
Cruises to the Galapagos and Alaska Cruise Tours are not included in this sale.
Celebrity Cruises is a premium cruise line from Royal Caribbean Group with 13 cruise ships in service. A 14th ship, Celebrity Xcel, will debut in November 2025.
The trip from Orlando International Airport (MCO) to Port Canaveral is about 45 miles and usually takes 45 to 60 minutes by road via State Road 528. The cheapest options are shared shuttles at roughly $20 to $30 per person each way. Cruise line transfers cost around $38 to $45 per person, and an Uber or Lyft typically runs about $70 to $110 per car. A rental car or private car service makes the most sense for families and groups who want to travel on their own schedule.
Below is a practical, up-to-date look at every realistic way to get from Orlando airport to Port Canaveral as of late 2026, with approximate prices, where to find each service at MCO, and the timing rules that catch many cruisers out.
Orlando Airport to Port Canaveral: Quick Comparison
Prices below are approximate, one-way, and were correct at the time of writing. Rates change, so always confirm when you book.
Option
Approx. cost (one way)
Pros
Cons
Shared shuttle (e.g. Happy Limo, Go Port)
$20–$30 per person
Cheapest for solo travelers and couples; set departures
Fixed morning time slots; may wait for the van to fill
Cruise line transfer
About $38–$45 per person
Line knows your ship; reps meet you at MCO
Flight time cut-offs; slower with big groups; adds up for families
Uber / Lyft
About $70–$110 per car
Leave whenever you like; door to terminal
Surge pricing on busy embarkation days; car seats not guaranteed
Private car / SUV (e.g. Mears, Go Port, Blacklane)
Often $150+ per vehicle
Flight tracking, meet and greet, room for luggage
Most expensive option for small parties
Rental car + port parking
Rental rate + $20/day parking (round trip)
Freedom for a grocery or beach stop; good for 4+ people
Parking for a 7-night cruise is around $160 plus tax; tolls
Shared Shuttles From Orlando Airport to Port Canaveral
For one or two travelers, a shared shuttle from Orlando airport to Port Canaveral is usually the best value. These companies run on a fixed morning schedule geared to cruise embarkation times, so they work best if you land early or fly in the day before.
Happy Limo
Happy Limo lists shared shuttle fares from $19.99 per person each way when booked online (a little more by phone). Departures from MCO were listed at 9:00, 10:00 and 11:00 a.m., and you are asked to be ready 30 minutes before. Pickup is on Level 1 of Terminal B, so if you land at Terminal A or C you will need to make your way there. The company also runs private limo and SUV transfers and return trips from the port to the airport in the morning after you disembark. Note that its shared shuttles cannot carry wheelchairs or mobility scooters.
Go Port
Go Port is one of the best-known operators on this route. Its shared shuttle was listed at $29.99 per traveler each way, with airport-to-cruise departures between about 10:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. Check-in is at the Go Port counter on Level 1 of Terminal A, near the car rental desks. Shuttles leave first come, first served once full, and flights landing after noon need another option. Go Port also offers private black car transfers (up to around six passengers), which must be booked a couple of days ahead. It does not supply car seats.
Airport Canaveral
Airport Canaveral advertises shared shuttles from around $25 per person, plus private car service, between MCO and the Port Canaveral cruise terminals. Its published details are thinner than the others, so call to confirm departure times and pickup instructions before relying on it.
Tip: Whichever company you choose, book in advance, give the exact cruise terminal for your ship, and allow a buffer between your flight landing and the shuttle departure for baggage claim.
Cruise Line Transfers From MCO
Most major lines sailing from Port Canaveral sell airport transfers, usually through the cruise planner or online check-in. They are convenient because the line expects you, but they come with strict flight windows.
Carnival: Carnival’s MCO-to-pier transfer was listed from $37.99 per person, run by Sunward Tours. Flights must land at MCO by 12:00 p.m. on sailing day, and the meeting point is Level 1 Ground Transportation in Terminal B, beside the Hertz counter. It can be bought up to two days before you sail.
Disney Cruise Line: Disney runs its own ground transportation coaches between Orlando and Port Canaveral, bookable through your reservation or travel advisor. Recent published rates have been around $45 per person each way, but check your booking for the current price.
Royal Caribbean, Norwegian and others: These lines generally offer transfers too, priced per person and tied to arrival time cut-offs. Look in your cruise planner or booking account for the current rate and rules for your sailing.
For a family of four, a cruise line transfer can cost more than a single Uber, so do the maths before you book. If you are still choosing a line, our Royal Caribbean vs Carnival comparison covers what else differs between the two big Port Canaveral players.
Rideshare pickups at MCO depend on which terminal you land in. Photo: Yazid N on Pexels
Uber and Lyft From Orlando Airport to Port Canaveral
Rideshare is the most flexible way to get from MCO to Port Canaveral. Uber’s own route page puts the trip at about 47 miles with an average fare around $78, and travelers commonly report paying roughly $70 to $110 depending on vehicle size and demand. Prices can jump on busy Saturday and Sunday mornings when several ships embark at once, so compare Uber and Lyft before you request, or schedule a ride in advance.
Where to Find Uber and Lyft at MCO
Terminals A and B: Head to baggage claim on Level 2 and follow the Ground Transportation and Ride App signs to the curb.
Terminal C: Pickups are on Level 6 (Arrivals), outside the baggage claim doors. Uber’s guidance points riders to doors C48 and C50.
Always check the in-app directions after you request, because pickup spots at MCO are adjusted from time to time. If you need a car seat, rideshare is a gamble; a private car service that supplies seats is safer.
Private Car Service and Luxury Transfers
If you want someone waiting for you when you land, a private car is the most comfortable option. Mears Transportation offers chauffeured sedans, SUVs and private shuttle vans from MCO to Port Canaveral, bookable online in advance, with car seats available on request and stretch limousines by phone. Blacklane and Go Port also sell private transfers on this route. Expect pricing per vehicle rather than per person, which can make an SUV good value for a group of four to six with plenty of luggage.
Port Canaveral parking costs $20 per day plus tax. Photo: www.EPiC VIDEO.es🎥 on Pexels
Rental Car and Port Canaveral Parking
Renting a car at MCO suits travelers who want a pre-cruise stop at Cocoa Beach or a grocery store, or who are flying in a day early. Rental desks are on-site at the airport, though one-way drop-off fees apply if you return the car near the port instead of at MCO.
If you keep the car and park at the port, Port Canaveral charges $20 per day plus tax for cars and RVs, counting both the day you arrive and the day you return. Payment is by card only. The daily rate rose from $17 in October 2025. The port’s own directions are simple: leave MCO by the North Exit onto S.R. 528 East (a toll road) and follow it to the port, taking Exit 54A for the A terminals (CT-5, CT-6, CT-8, CT-10) or Exit 54B for the B terminals (CT-1, CT-3). The port estimates the drive at about 45 minutes in normal traffic.
Is There a Train or Bus to Port Canaveral?
Not directly. Brightline runs high-speed trains from Orlando airport to South Florida, but it does not stop near Port Canaveral today. A planned Brightline station in Cocoa, on the mainland west of the port, received $57.5 million in federal funding in October 2026, but Brightline has indicated an opening around 2030. Brightline also went through a debt restructuring in late 2026. For now, the train is not a realistic way to reach your ship. There is no straightforward public bus from MCO to the cruise terminals either, so a shuttle, transfer, rideshare or car is the practical choice.
How to Pick the Best Option
Check your flight time first. Most shuttles and cruise transfers stop running from MCO around midday. If you land later, plan on rideshare, a private car, or flying in the day before (the safest choice for any cruise).
Count your party. Per-person shuttles win for one or two people; per-car options usually win for four or more.
Know your terminal. Port Canaveral has several cruise terminals on two sides of the harbor. Give your exact terminal number to any driver.
Think about the return. Return shuttles usually leave the port between about 8 and 10 a.m., so book an afternoon flight home.
Sailing from South Florida instead? Our guide to hotels near Fort Lauderdale cruise port compares shuttles, park-and-cruise deals and distances to Port Everglades.
Not sure where to sail from? Our guide to the cruise ports in Florida compares passenger numbers, airports, parking and cruise lines at each port.
FAQs
How long is the shuttle from Orlando airport to Port Canaveral?
The drive itself takes about 45 to 60 minutes, but shuttle operators often quote 60 to 75 minutes once loading and drop-offs at different terminals are included.
How far is Port Canaveral from Orlando airport by car?
About 45 miles, almost entirely on S.R. 528 East, which is a toll road.
What is the cheapest way to get from Orlando airport to Port Canaveral?
For one or two people, a shared shuttle at roughly $20 to $30 per person each way is usually cheapest. For groups of four or more, a single Uber or Lyft can cost less overall.
Is there a free shuttle from Orlando airport to Port Canaveral?
Not as a rule. Cruise line and independent shuttles charge a fare. Some cruise fares or promotions may bundle transfers, so check your booking.
How much is an Uber from Orlando airport to Port Canaveral?
Uber lists an average of around $78, and fares commonly range from about $70 to $110 depending on vehicle type and demand.
The world’s largest cruise ship, Icon of the Seas, is already set to sail out of PortMiami this year, but it’s not the only new ship to call the Sunshine State home in 2024.
Royal Caribbean’s sixth and last Oasis-class ship, Utopia of the Seas, will also debut in July, offering sailings out of Port Canaveral.
Over the next couple months at least 75 different cruise ships will be departing from ports in Florida.
Fast forward to the last two months in 2024 and that number jumps to 94 cruise ships.
Sponsored Links
As cruise demand continues to thrive, Florida cruise ports will be homeporting more cruise ships than ever before.
In addition to new ships debuting in Miami, Port Canaveral, and Port Everglades, other ships are being repositioned to Florida, giving passengers even more vacation options heading into the new year.
New Ships Coming to Florida Ports
Icon of the Seas – PortMiami, January 27th, 2024
Utopia of the Seas – Port Canaveral, July 22nd, 2024
Disney Treasure – Port Canaveral, December of 2024
A couple revitalized cruise ships that are being or have been transferred to new cruise lines will be offering sailings out of the state as well.
Our free cruise newsletter offers the latest cruise news and deals: Sign Up
Carnival Venezia, original sailing for another Carnival Corp. brand, Costa Cruises, is now part of the Carnival Cruise Line fleet. The “Carnival Fun Italian Style” ship will move from New York to Port Canaveral in December of 2024.
Additionally, Margaritaville at Sea is adding a newly acquired ship to Port Tampa Bay. The cruise line’s second ship, Margaritaville at Sea Islander, is set to debut in June of 2024 and offer 4- and 5-night sailings to the Caribbean.
Other Ships Debuting in Florida Cruise Ports
Port Canaveral will also be welcoming cruise ships from other ports, two being the first from their respective cruise lines.
Celebrity Equinox, which will offer sailings out of the Space Coast port beginning on December 3rd, 2024, will be Celebrity Cruises’ first ship to homeport there.
Princess Cruises will also send their first ship to homeport from the busiest cruise port in the world, when Caribbean Princess sets sail in November of 2024.
Change of plans
Ongoing geopolitical conflicts have caused some cruise lines to rearrange ships and homeports for the season as well. Royal Caribbean’s Grandeur of the Seas was originally planning to offer itineraries in the Middle East and in Haifa. Instead, the oldest ship in Royal Caribbean’s fleet will continue to offer cruises to the Caribbean and will reposition from Miami to Tampa in April of this year.
Additionally, Norwegian Epic will remain in Port Canaveral instead of following the previous plan of offering sailings in Europe for the winter.
Viking has announced three new cruise itineraries that will provide exclusive access to China later this year and will range from 10 to 20 days in length.
Not only will these new cruises visit Beijing, Shanghai, and Hong Kong, but they will visit ports in China that only Viking has access to. The sailings will take place on Chinese flagged Viking Yi Dun, the cruise ship formerly known as Viking Sun. It’s the first ship to offer domestic cruises in China to foreign travelers.
“We are proud that Viking will be the first to operate domestic sailings in China for international travelers. Our guests are curious travelers who are interested in experiences that broaden their mind—and China, with one of the richest cultures in the world, has been inspiring travelers for centuries,” said Torstein Hagen, Chairman of Viking. “For more than 15 years, our Yangtze River voyages were among our highest-rated itineraries. We brought guests to China’s Yangtze River, to Beijing, to the Great Wall, to the Terra Cotta Warriors and to many other iconic places in this captivating nation. We introduced the real China to our guests, and visiting local school children was always a particular highlight. Now, we are delighted to offer such encounters once again with new voyages to a destination that never ceases to capture the imagination.”
Sponsored Links
Our free cruise newsletter offers the latest cruise news and deals: Sign Up
Wonders of China is a 20 day roundtrip cruisetour from Beijing. Guests will be able to walk on the Great Wall of China, visit a Tibetan family in their home, and explore Gulangyu Island in Xiamen, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The 15 day Classic China & the Coast will start in Beijing and end in Hong Kong (Shenzhen). Guests will be able to visit the Great Wall, the Forbidden City, and the Terra Cotta Warriors. The cruise portion is a 10 day China Discovery itinerary along China’s coastline.
For those who only want to visit China by sea, the 10 Day China Discovery cruise starts in Shanghai and ends in Hong Kong (Shenzhen). It will offer guests to experience the cliffs of Dongtou, follow the steps of 19th-century European diplomats on Gulangyu Island in Xiamen, or try Cantonese dim sum in Shenzhen.
Viking Yi Dun is specifically dedicated to explore China and is a sister ship to Viking’s award winning fleet of ocean cruise ships.
For the rest of the month, the cruise line is offering free international airfare, $25 deposits, and special cruise fares and all voyages. While space is limited for 2024, this cruise deal includes the new coastal China itineraries.
