June is the best month for most Alaska cruises; May and September are cheapest. Month-by-month weather, wildlife, 2027 fares and when to book.
Port Canaveral Transfers: Options and Costs From MCO, Sanford, Melbourne and Daytona
Port Canaveral transfers cost roughly $20 to $50 per person on a shared shuttle, $60 to $120 or more by rideshare or taxi, and $150 to $675 per vehicle for a private car, depending on which airport you land at. Orlando (MCO) has the widest choice and the lowest shared fares, while Melbourne (MLB) is the shortest ride. Sanford (SFB) has one scheduled shuttle, and Daytona Beach (DAB) is effectively a rideshare, private car or rental car route.
This guide compares every option side by side so you can price your own party. All figures are approximate, one way, in US dollars, and based on rates published by operators during 2026. They change often, so confirm before you book. If you are still choosing a flight, see our comparison of the closest airports to Port Canaveral first.
Port Canaveral transfers compared by airport
| Airport | Road time | Shared shuttle (per person) | Rideshare or taxi (per car) | Private transfer (per vehicle) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Orlando (MCO) | About 45 min to 1 hr | About $20 to $30 | Rideshare about $60 to $120; taxi about $115 | About $150 to $300 |
| Sanford (SFB) | About 1 hr | About $50 | Rideshare typically $100 or more | About $300 to $350 |
| Melbourne (MLB) | About 40 to 50 min | No scheduled service found | Taxi about $80 to $100 | Quote only |
| Daytona Beach (DAB) | About 1 hr 20 min | No scheduled service found | No published fare; check your app | About $475 to $675 |
Cruise line transfers are the other choice, but published prices are for MCO: Carnival lists $37.99 per person each way and Disney Cruise Line about $45. If you are flying into another airport, ask your cruise line directly whether it offers a transfer from there.
Orlando (MCO) to Port Canaveral
MCO is the busiest gateway and the only airport with real competition between operators. Shared shuttles from companies such as Happy Limousine, Airport Canaveral and Go Port are advertised at about $20 to $30 per person each way, though most only run in a late-morning window of about 10:00 AM to 12:30 PM on sailing days.
Operators and fares change regularly on this route, and reviews vary, so it is worth reading recent feedback before booking the lowest price. For a closer look at the companies and fares, read our full guide to Orlando airport shuttles, Uber and transfer costs.
Sanford airport to Port Canaveral
Orlando Sanford (SFB) is about 60 miles from the cruise terminals, usually around an hour via SR 417 south and SR 528 east. It mainly serves leisure airlines, including Allegiant, and it has far fewer transfer options than MCO.
- Shared shuttle: Go Port lists a sailing-day shuttle at about $49.99 per person each way, picking up between 10:30 and 11:00 AM. The return leaves the terminal at 9:00 AM, and the company advises booking flights home no earlier than noon.
- Private car: Go Port lists about $299 one way for up to six travelers. Orange Tours lists about $350 for up to 10 in a van, plus a $25 airport fee and gratuity of about 20%.
- Rideshare: Fares from the port to Sanford typically start above $100 and can climb with surge pricing or a larger vehicle.
- Rental car: A one-way hire is worth pricing if you land the day before and want to stop on the way. See the rental section below.
The fixed late-morning pickup is the catch. If your flight lands after about 10:00 AM, allow for baggage claim and consider a private car or arriving the day before.
Melbourne airport to Port Canaveral
Orlando Melbourne International (MLB) is the closest commercial airport to the port, at around 30 miles. The Canaveral Port Authority puts the drive at about 40 minutes, via NASA Boulevard, US 1 north and SR 528 east, and other route planners estimate closer to 50 minutes.
The airport is small, with services from airlines including Allegiant, American Eagle and Delta, plus seasonal TUI flights from the UK. That makes it a good fit for travelers who can connect through Atlanta or Charlotte.
- Taxi: Expect about $80 to $100. Pre-arrange one if you land at a quiet time.
- Rideshare: Available through the apps. On comparable routes rideshare usually comes in below a taxi, but check the live quote, because fewer drivers wait at a smaller airport.
- Private transfer: We could not find a dependable published fixed rate, so request quotes from Space Coast operators. Sunshine Transportation is one company that lists MLB as a service area.
- Rental car: Often the most flexible choice for a short hop, with a one-way drop near the port.
- Public bus: Space Coast Area Transit connects the two for around $8, but the trip takes over three and a half hours and involves changes, so it is not realistic with cruise luggage.
Daytona to Port Canaveral
Daytona Beach International (DAB) is the longest of the four routes, at about 75 miles and roughly 1 hour 20 minutes south on I-95, then east on SR 528. Delta, American, Avelo and Breeze serve the airport, so it can suit travelers with a convenient nonstop, but transfer costs can wipe out savings on the airfare.
Florida Sunshine Shuttle lists private transfers from DAB at about $475 for a sedan carrying up to three, $550 for a van of up to eight, and $675 for up to 14, with tolls and airport fees included. Booking site MyTransfers has shown sedan fares from around €330. Rideshare is the likely lower-cost alternative for a small party, but no reliable published fare exists, so check your app before committing to this airport. A rental car can also make sense here, particularly when several people are sharing.
Rental car and parking costs
The port says major rental companies offer shuttles to and from the terminals, so a one-way hire can work. Arrange the drop-off location and the shuttle with the rental company directly, and check its hours on your sailing day. Budget at least $50 a day, and expect one-way rates to run higher.
If you keep the car for the cruise, port parking is $20 per day plus tax, and it counts both arrival and departure days. A seven-night sailing is therefore about $160 plus tax. SR 528, the Beachline, is a toll road; tolls from MCO run about $2 to $5 depending on how you pay, and they are higher on longer routes that also use SR 417.
What each option really costs your group
Per-person fares for Port Canaveral transfers look cheap until you multiply them. Here is the Sanford route as an example, using the approximate fares above.
| Party size | Shared shuttle total | Rideshare | Private car |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | About $100 | $100 or more | About $299 to $350 |
| 4 | About $200 | $100 or more, larger vehicle may cost extra | About $299 to $350 |
| 6 | About $300 | Larger vehicle or two cars needed | About $299 to $350 |
By six travelers, a private car costs about the same as the shared shuttle and gives you your own pickup time. Cruise line transfers follow the same arithmetic: a family of four on Disney’s $45 motorcoach pays about $180 each way from MCO.
Practical tips before you book
- Know your terminal. On SR 528, take Exit 54A for the north-side A Terminals (5, 6, 8 and 10) or Exit 54B for the south-side B Terminals, including 1 and 3. Give your driver the terminal number.
- Check for hidden charges. Some private operators add gratuity, airport fees, or fees for arriving at the port before about 10:30 AM. Florida Sunshine Shuttle lists a $125 fee for early port drop-offs, and late bookings can carry surcharges of 20% to 75%.
- Aim for the right window. Port parking opens at 10:00 AM for embarkation, and your cruise line will assign a boarding time. There is little benefit in reaching the port hours before it.
- Plan the return separately. Debarkation typically runs from about 7:00 to 11:00 AM depending on your line. Rideshare cars and taxis are in heavy demand at that time, so pre-book if you have a flight to catch.
- Consider the night before. Flying in a day early protects you from delays. If you have time to spare near the terminals, here are some things to do near Port Canaveral.
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to get to Port Canaveral from the airport?
From Orlando MCO, a shared shuttle at roughly $20 to $30 per person each way is usually cheapest for one or two travelers. From Sanford, the shared shuttle is about $50 per person. From Melbourne, a taxi or rideshare for a 30-mile trip is typically the best value, and groups of four or more often do better with a private van or a rideshare XL.
Is there a shuttle from Sanford airport to Port Canaveral?
Yes. Go Port runs a shared shuttle from Sanford (SFB) to the cruise terminals on sailing days for about $49.99 per person each way, with airport pickup between 10:30 and 11:00 AM. Check the current schedule before booking your flight.
How far is Melbourne airport from Port Canaveral?
Orlando Melbourne International (MLB) is about 30 miles from the cruise terminals, roughly 40 to 50 minutes by road. That makes it the shortest drive of the four commercial airports serving the port.
Can you take an Uber or Lyft to Port Canaveral?
Yes. Uber and Lyft both operate at Port Canaveral. Expect about $60 to $120 from MCO and upwards of $100 from Sanford, with surge pricing possible. On the way back, cars can be scarce when several ships debark at once, so allow extra time.
Is there a free shuttle from Orlando airport to Port Canaveral?
Not as a standard service. The port says many hotels offer complimentary or scheduled shuttles to the terminals, so a free or low-cost ride is most likely if you stay the night before on a hotel package. Confirm what is included before you book.
Best Cruise Ships for Alaska in 2027: Which Ship Suits You?
The best cruise ships for Alaska depend on what kind of trip you want, not just which is newest or biggest. For most first-timers, a mid-size or large ship that includes Glacier Bay National Park, such as Royal Princess or Holland America’s Eurodam, is the safest choice. Luxury travellers should look at Regent Seven Seas Explorer or Seabourn Encore. Families do best on Disney Wonder or Quantum of the Seas, and wildlife-focused travellers should pick an expedition ship like Lindblad’s Greg Mortimer.
Below, we match specific ships to specific types of traveller. Every ship listed is scheduled to sail Alaska in the 2027 season, based on cruise line announcements. If you are still deciding between brands rather than individual ships, start with our guide to choosing the best cruise line to Alaska for you, then come back here to pick the ship.
Which is the best cruise ship to Alaska? The quick answer
If you want one recommendation that suits most people, choose a ship whose itinerary includes Glacier Bay National Park. Access to the park is limited by permit, so only some ships go there, and it is often the highlight of the trip. In 2027, Royal Princess sails 7-day round trips from Seattle with Glacier Bay on Saturday departures, and Holland America’s Eurodam sails 7-day round trips from Seattle that include Glacier Bay. Both are big enough to offer plenty of dining and entertainment without the crowds of the largest megaships.
From there, the “best” ship shifts with your priorities:
- Best for luxury: Regent Seven Seas Explorer or Seabourn Encore
- Best for families: Disney Wonder or Quantum of the Seas
- Best for big-ship fun: Norwegian Encore or Norwegian Bliss
- Best for scenery and wildlife: Greg Mortimer (Lindblad Expeditions)
- Best for value: Carnival Luminosa, Carnival Spirit or Serenade of the Seas
- Best for a modern premium feel: Celebrity Edge or Star Princess
Best cruise ships for Alaska in 2027: comparison table
Passenger figures are approximate, based on standard (double) occupancy, and homeports reflect announced 2027 programs. Itineraries can change, so always check the specific sailing before you book.
| Ship | Cruise line | Approx. guests | Best for | Typical 2027 Alaska itinerary / homeport |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Royal Princess | Princess Cruises | 3,600 | First-timers, Glacier Bay | 7-day round trip from Seattle (Glacier Bay on Saturday sailings); some 9- and 10-day trips |
| Star Princess | Princess Cruises | 4,300 | Newest big ship, modern design | 7-day Inside Passage round trip from Seattle (Sundays); some 9- and 10-day trips |
| Eurodam | Holland America Line | 2,100 | Mid-size comfort, Glacier Bay | 7-day Alaska Explorer round trip from Seattle, with Glacier Bay and Sitka |
| Nieuw Amsterdam | Holland America Line | 2,100 | One-way glacier routes, land tours | 7-day Glacier Discovery between Vancouver and Whittier (Anchorage) |
| Seven Seas Explorer | Regent Seven Seas Cruises | 750 | All-inclusive luxury | 7-night one-way between Vancouver and Whittier, with Hubbard Glacier |
| Seabourn Encore | Seabourn | 600 | Intimate luxury, longer voyages | 7- to 15-day Alaska and Inside Passage sailings, May to September |
| Greg Mortimer | Lindblad Expeditions | Around 150 | Wildlife, Zodiacs, kayaking | Expedition voyages including Inside Passage, Misty Fjords, Tracy Arm and Hubbard Glacier |
| Disney Wonder | Disney Cruise Line | 2,400 | Families with young children | 7-night round trip from Vancouver (Skagway, Juneau, Ketchikan) |
| Quantum of the Seas | Royal Caribbean | 4,200 | Families with teens, activities | 7-night round trip from Seattle |
| Norwegian Encore / Bliss | Norwegian Cruise Line | 4,000 each | Big-ship fun, freestyle dining | Mostly 7-day round trips from Seattle |
| Celebrity Edge | Celebrity Cruises | 2,900 | Modern premium, couples | 7-night sailings from Seattle or Vancouver |
| Carnival Luminosa | Carnival Cruise Line | 2,300 | Value, longer cruise from California | 10-day round trip from San Francisco |
Best ships for a luxury Alaska cruise
Regent Seven Seas Explorer
Regent has scheduled Seven Seas Explorer for 16 Alaska sailings in summer 2027, all seven-night one-way trips between Vancouver and Whittier. Calls include Skagway, Juneau, Sitka, Ketchikan and the smaller port of Klawock, with scenic cruising in the Inside Passage and at Hubbard Glacier. With around 750 guests, all-suite accommodation and a fare that includes most drinks, specialty dining and many shore excursions, it is the closest thing to a floating luxury hotel in Alaska. Because it sails one way, it pairs naturally with a pre- or post-cruise land stay in Denali.
Seabourn Encore
Seabourn Encore offers 18 Alaska departures between May and September 2027, ranging from 7 to 15 days. Every voyage includes at least one scenic cruise of Hubbard Glacier, Tracy Arm, Endicott Arm or Glacier Bay. At roughly 600 guests, it can visit smaller ports and feels far less busy than the big ships. The 14-day combination voyages are worth a look if you want to see more of the coast without changing ships.
On any luxury ship in Alaska, the cabin matters more than usual, because so much of the scenery passes right outside. Our round-up of the best balcony cabins at sea explains what makes a balcony worth paying extra for.
Best small ship for an Alaska cruise: scenery and wildlife
Greg Mortimer (Lindblad Expeditions)
Lindblad’s two long-serving Alaska ships, National Geographic Sea Bird and Sea Lion, are retiring after the 2026 season. For 2027, the company has chartered the Greg Mortimer, an expedition ship with a distinctive X-BOW hull, multiple Zodiac platforms and space for about 150 guests. Its Alaska program focuses on places big ships cannot reach easily, with Zodiac cruising, kayaking and wildlife watching in areas such as Misty Fjords, the Inian Islands, Tracy Arm, Endicott Arm and Hubbard Glacier.
This is the right ship if your idea of Alaska is whales, bears and quiet coves rather than shows and casinos. Expect a higher price per day than mainstream lines, fewer formal onboard amenities and a schedule that changes with weather and wildlife.
Best cruise ships for Alaska for families
Disney Wonder
Disney Wonder returns to Alaska in 2027 with 7-night round trips from Vancouver. A typical sailing visits Skagway, Juneau and Ketchikan, with scenic cruising near the Stikine Icecap. Disney’s kids’ clubs, character experiences and family-friendly entertainment make it the easiest choice for parents of younger children. Fares tend to be higher than mainstream lines, and sailings during school holidays fill early.
Quantum of the Seas
Royal Caribbean is sending four ships to Alaska in 2027, and Quantum of the Seas sails 7-night round trips from Seattle. Quantum class ships are known for the North Star observation capsule, the SeaPlex indoor activity area and the RipCord by iFly skydiving simulator, which are useful on cool or rainy Alaska days. Its sister Anthem of the Seas sails one-way between Seward and Vancouver if you want to add a Denali cruisetour.
Best ships for big-ship fun in Alaska
Norwegian Encore and Norwegian Bliss
Norwegian Encore and Norwegian Bliss both sail mostly 7-day round trips from Seattle in 2027. These are large, lively ships with go-kart tracks, a wide range of restaurants and a flexible “freestyle” approach to dining and dress. Their forward-facing observation lounges are a good place to watch the scenery when the weather turns. If you prefer a smaller Norwegian ship with one-way glacier routes, Norwegian Jade sails between Whittier and Vancouver with a scenic day at Glacier Bay or Hubbard Glacier.
Star Princess
Star Princess, one of Princess’s newest and largest ships, returns for a second Alaska season with 7-day Inside Passage round trips from Seattle. It suits travellers who want the latest design and many dining options while keeping Princess’s long Alaska experience, which includes naturalists and local programming on board.
Best value ships for an Alaska cruise
Carnival Luminosa, Carnival Spirit and Carnival Legend
Carnival has three ships in Alaska in 2027. Carnival Spirit and Carnival Legend sail 7-day trips from Seattle to Juneau, Ketchikan, Skagway, Tracy Arm Fjord and Victoria. Carnival Luminosa sails 10-day cruises from San Francisco, adding Prince Rupert in British Columbia. These are mid-size ships with a relaxed, fun atmosphere and often some of the lowest fares in Alaska. Luminosa is especially handy for Californians who would rather not fly to Seattle.
Serenade of the Seas
Royal Caribbean’s Serenade of the Seas sails 7-night round trips from Vancouver. It is one of the smaller ships in the Royal Caribbean fleet and has plenty of glass, which helps with views. It lacks the headline attractions of Quantum class ships, but it often prices lower.
Fares for all of these ships vary widely by date and cabin type. Early and late-season sailings in May and September usually cost less than July. Watch our cruise deals for 2027 for current offers.
Best mid-size ships for classic Alaska cruising
Eurodam and Nieuw Amsterdam (Holland America Line)
Holland America has six ships in Alaska in 2027, the year it marks 80 years of Alaska travel. Eurodam sails 7-day round trips from Seattle that include Glacier Bay, Sitka, Juneau, Ketchikan and Icy Strait Point. Nieuw Amsterdam and Westerdam sail 7-day one-way Glacier Discovery cruises between Vancouver and Whittier, which include Glacier Bay, and the northbound trip adds College Fjord. These mid-size ships suit travellers who want a calm, traditional cruise with good dining and live music. Read more about Holland America’s Alaska heritage tours if you plan to add a land journey.
Celebrity Edge
Celebrity Edge is one of three Celebrity ships in Alaska for 2027, alongside Celebrity Solstice and Celebrity Summit. It has a contemporary design, a large number of balcony cabins and the Magic Carpet, a movable platform on the side of the ship. It suits couples who want a modern premium experience at a price below the luxury lines. If longer cruises with more glacier time appeal, Celebrity Solstice is often a better match.
How to choose the best ship for an Alaska cruise
A few practical points matter more in Alaska than in the Caribbean, and they often decide which ship is best for you:
- Check the glacier on the itinerary. Glacier Bay, Hubbard Glacier, Tracy Arm and Endicott Arm (Dawes Glacier) offer different experiences. Glacier Bay requires a permit, so it appears on fewer sailings.
- Decide on round trip or one way. Round trips from Seattle or Vancouver are simpler to book. One-way cruises between Vancouver and Whittier or Seward reach farther north and pair well with Denali, but flights cost more.
- Look for indoor viewing space. Alaska weather is cool and often wet. Ships with large observation lounges, covered decks or glass-walled areas let you watch the scenery in comfort.
- Weigh the balcony. A balcony is more useful in Alaska than almost anywhere else, especially on scenic cruising days.
- Consider ship size. Bigger ships offer more to do on board, while smaller ships reach quieter ports and get you on and off faster.
FAQs
Which is the best cruise ship to Alaska?
For most people, a ship that includes Glacier Bay National Park is the best choice. In 2027, Royal Princess and Holland America’s Eurodam both offer 7-day Seattle round trips with Glacier Bay. Luxury travellers should consider Regent Seven Seas Explorer, and families should look at Disney Wonder.
Is a big or small ship better for Alaska?
Big ships offer more entertainment, more dining choice and often lower fares. Small and expedition ships, such as Lindblad’s Greg Mortimer, get closer to wildlife and visit remote coves. The right choice depends on whether you value onboard activities or time in nature more.
Which cruise ships go to Glacier Bay?
Only ships with National Park Service permits can enter Glacier Bay, and most of these belong to Princess Cruises and Holland America Line. In 2027, sailings with Glacier Bay include Royal Princess on Saturday departures from Seattle, Eurodam’s Alaska Explorer, Holland America’s Glacier Discovery cruises and Princess’s Voyage of the Glaciers.
What is the best month to cruise Alaska?
June, July and August bring the warmest weather and longest days, but also the highest fares. May and September are usually cheaper and quieter, with a chance of cooler, wetter weather.
How Long Transatlantic Cruises Really Take
Once the height of luxury travel, transatlantic cruises were the only way to cross the ocean in style. These days, most people hop on a plane – but the magic of crossing the Atlantic by ship hasn’t disappeared.
In fact, it’s still one of the most unique and surprisingly affordable cruise experiences you can have – if you know when to go and what to expect.
Here’s what today’s transatlantic cruises are really like, including how long you’ll be at sea and why this classic voyage still has a place in modern cruising.
What A Transatlantic Cruise Actually Is
A transatlantic cruise is one which sails across the Atlantic Ocean, either from Europe to the Americas or in the other direction. They can be direct between two ports, or they may include a selection of ports on either side of the ocean.
Regardless, you’re still going to spend a series of days at sea in a row, which isn’t for everyone. You need to be comfortable with the fact that you won’t be able to get off the ship for several days.
On some of the larger ships in the world, this isn’t much of a problem at all – even on a transatlantic sailing, you don’t have time to experience everything that the ship has to offer.
But on smaller ships, you might find yourself with a bit more downtime, where you might need to be comfortable just lounging by the pool during the day. And bear in mind that the weather probably won’t be great, so an indoor pool is a huge bonus here!
That could be your idea of heaven, or you might find yourself with itchy feet wanting to get off and explore on land.
Transatlantic Cruises Still Exist
Transatlantic cruises still exist, but aren’t regular sailings that travel back and forth between Europe and the Americas. Instead, they’re usually repositioning cruises, or they form part of a wider world cruise itinerary.
The majority of transatlantic sailings are repositioning cruises. This is quite a dull-sounding word, but it’s pretty self-explanatory – a repositioning cruise is one where the ship is ‘repositioned’ – moved to another area for the next cruise season.
Cruises in Europe are most popular during the summer months, usually from around April until October. This is when the weather is more enjoyable, and more people want to sail around the ports of the Mediterranean or Northern Europe.
Suggested read: The Best Places To Cruise in October
But the other major cruise destination in the world – the Caribbean – has good weather year-round, and the November to March season tends to fall outside the typical hurricane season.
So many cruise ships will split their time between the two regions – sailing around Europe during the summer, and the Caribbean during the winter.
And it’s when the ships are being repositioned that they offer a transatlantic cruise. But it’ll be one-way, and you’ll have to fly either to the ship for embarkation, or on your return home.
At least, that’s normally the case. There is a very small selection of round-trip transatlantic sailings you can book, as we’ll discuss later in this article.
How Long A Transatlantic Cruise Takes
A transatlantic cruise will typically take between 7 and 16 nights, with some cruise lines averaging 11-12 nights and some offering exclusively 14+ night cruises. Very few cruises take fewer than 11 nights, and some last much longer.
The difference in how long a transatlantic cruise takes depends on the ports that are included. The fastest ones go direct from Southampton to New York with no stops, while others may call at ports further south on the US coastline, or they may travel to/from ports further east in Europe.
A cruise to Rome, for example, is, of course, going to take longer than one that stops at Barcelona – there’s at least another day or two of sailing involved to reach the destination.
And there are some ports along the way that a cruise ship may call at to break up the itinerary. These will extend the length of the cruise as well.
Where Transatlantic Cruises Go
Transatlantic cruises will sail between the home ports used by the bigger cruise lines – so typically from the ports of Florida or New York on the western side, and from Southampton, Barcelona or Rome on the eastern side. Some cruises will call at Ponta Delgada too.
Ponta Delgada is the largest port in the Azores, a collection of islands belonging to Portugal that are situated approximately a third of the way across the Atlantic if travelling from east to west.
It’s a popular port for transatlantic cruises because not only is the island lively and scenic, but it serves as a good resting port, breaking up the itinerary so that it’s not endless sea days, and giving guests the chance to go ashore and explore outside the confines of the ship.
Another popular port en route, mainly for cruises sailing through the Mediterranean, is Funchal on Madeira. Another Portuguese island, this one is further south, closer to the coastline of Morocco than it is to Portugal itself.
It’s not a port that would likely be included on a transatlantic sailing to or from Southampton, but for sailings to or from Rome or Barcelona, it’s often added to the itinerary.
The Shortest Transatlantic Cruise
The shortest transatlantic cruise is offered by Cunard, one of the only cruise lines that still specialises in this itinerary year-round. It lasts for 7 nights and sails directly between Southampton and New York, with no additional ports of call.
These Cunard transatlantic cruises all take place on the Queen Mary 2. When compared to the family-friendly ships of cruise lines like Royal Caribbean, Carnival or NCL, there are not that many different things to see and do on this ship.
But it is a luxury liner – a ship that harks back to the golden age of cruising, but with plenty of modern conveniences.
The appeal of a transatlantic cruise on Queen Mary 2 is the ability to enjoy a classical cruising experience with long days relaxing, excellent service and enrichment through daytime lectures and nighttime live entertainment.
Cunard is the main cruise line for round-trip transatlantic cruises on the same ship. You’re able to sail from Southampton to New York, enjoy a short time exploring the city, and then return on the same ship.
It does mean spending almost two weeks at sea, with only a stop in New York to break it up, but if you want to escape from the world for a little while, then this could be perfect.
The Cruise Lines That Offer Transatlantic Crossings
There are many cruise lines that offer transatlantic sailings as they move ships between Europe and the Caribbean/Americas.
Not all ships are repositioned. Some will stay in Europe year-round, and some will offer year-round Caribbean sailings, or other destinations on either side of the American continents.
But there are some great ships that you can traverse the Atlantic Ocean on, with transatlantic sailings offered by:
- Azamara Cruises
- Carnival Cruise Line
- Celebrity Cruises
- Cunard Line
- Fred Olsen
- Holland America Line
- MSC Cruises
- Norwegian Cruise Line
- Oceania Cruises
- P&O Cruises
- Princess Cruises
- Regent Seven Seas Cruises
- Royal Caribbean
- Seabourn
- Silversea
- Virgin Voyages
P&O Cruises doesn’t call their cruises transatlantic, so don’t look for those sailings on their website – you won’t find them. Instead, look for Caribbean cruises, and you’ll find sailings that depart from Southampton and cross the Atlantic Ocean.
They’re also one of the other cruise lines that offer round-trip transatlantic sailings, but they are much longer, up to 35 nights in length.
To Conclude
Transatlantic cruises are still common, but normally during the repositioning times of the year only – so March/April, or October/November. And they’ll usually be one-way, meaning you’ll need to be happy flying either to the start of your cruise or once your cruise has finished.
There are alternatives – Cunard Line’s itineraries run year-round, including round-trips, while P&O do offer some longer round-trip sailings too.
But if you’re travelling with kids, you might want to try a one-way transatlantic cruise on a modern ship packed with fun things to see and do while at sea.
P&O’s itineraries are long, and while Cunard welcomes families, they aren’t known for their exciting daytime activities for younger cruisers. If you just want to escape and enjoy classic cruising, though, they are perfect.
NEW DEALS JUST RELEASED!
Don’t miss the latest Cunard offers…
Related Posts:
If you found this interesting, please share!
Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.
This Volcano Is Showing Signs It May Erupt
Cruising to Alaska is all about dramatic landscapes, wildlife, and natural wonders. But in 2025, travellers might get more drama than expected.
Mount Spurr, an active volcano located around 80 miles west of Anchorage, is showing signs it could erupt in the coming weeks or months. Still, experts and cruise lines agree there’s no reason to panic just yet.
Here’s what you need to know if you’re booked on an Alaskan cruise this year.
Experts Are Closely Watching the Volcano
Back in March, scientists noticed more volcanic activity at Mt. Spurr – including extra gas emissions and minor earthquakes. These signs suggest magma could be rising beneath the surface.
The last two major eruptions in 1953 and 1992 sent ash clouds spreading for hundreds of miles. The Alaska Volcano Observatory says if Mt. Spurr erupts again, it’ll likely resemble those past events.
However, a recent update from the US Geological Survey (USGS) reports that no major changes have been seen since then. According to their 5th May statement, the current signs don’t suggest the volcano is on the verge of erupting.
If a major eruption were on the way, scientists say we’d see stronger earthquakes, ground movement, and more intense gas emissions – all of which would give plenty of warning.
Most Alaska Cruises Don’t Start or End Near the Volcano
The main risk to travellers is volcanic ash, which can affect air quality and disrupt flights.
Cruises that start or finish in Anchorage (through the nearby ports of Seward or Whittier) are the ones most likely to be impacted, since these areas are roughly 125 miles from the volcano.
If you’re flying into or out of Anchorage for your cruise, there’s a chance flights could be delayed or cancelled if ash reaches the area.
That said, many Alaskan cruises sail round-trip from cities much farther away – such as Vancouver, Seattle, or ports in California. These are all over 1,000 miles from Mt. Spurr and are unlikely to be affected by an eruption.
Most travellers are taking a cautious but calm approach.
Cruise Lines Are Prepared to Make Changes If Needed
Even if your cruise begins or ends in Alaska, there’s no need to panic. Cruise lines are keeping a close eye on the situation and are ready to adjust their plans if necessary.
In a joint statement to Cruise Critic, Princess Cruises and Holland America Line said: “We constantly monitor the locations we visit, and the safety of our passengers and crew is always our top priority. Most of our itineraries focus on southeast Alaska, which is far from the Mount Spurr area. If any changes are needed, we’ll inform affected guests directly.”
Although several cruise lines operate in Alaska – including Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean and Cunard – Princess and Holland America dominate the region. Both companies also run their own land tours and lodges in areas like Denali National Park.
Most Alaskan cruises visit southeast ports like Juneau, Skagway and Ketchikan, which are all hundreds of miles from the volcano.
What the Eyjafjallajökull Eruption Taught Us About Travel Disruption
When Iceland’s Eyjafjallajökull volcano erupted in April 2010, it caused a major disruption to global air travel.
Ash from the eruption spread across much of Europe’s airspace, grounding more than 100,000 flights and leaving millions of travellers stranded.
Despite the chaos in the skies, cruise ships themselves largely unaffected. Since the ash cloud drifted high in the atmosphere, it posed no threat to sea travel, and most cruise itineraries continued as planned.
However, the situation still caused headaches for cruise passengers who had flights cancelled, either on their way to join a cruise or when trying to fly home afterwards.
Cruise lines responded quickly, helping travellers with alternative arrangements and, in some cases, offering extended onboard stays for those unable to disembark. A few lines even adjusted itineraries or used ships to transport stranded guests back to mainland Europe.
The Eyjafjallajökull eruption proved that while volcanoes can severely disrupt air travel, cruises offer a more flexible form of transport. Ships can reroute, stay at sea, or adjust schedules without being grounded, making them a relatively stable option when natural disasters strike.
TODAY’S BEST CRUISE DEALS!
Don’t miss these offers…
Other Active Volcanoes You Can Visit on a Cruise
If the idea of seeing a volcano excites rather than worries you, there are plenty of cruise itineraries around the world that bring passengers up close to active – and often safely monitored – volcanoes. Here are a few notable ones:
Mount Etna, Sicily (Italy)
One of the most active volcanoes in the world, Mount Etna offers unforgettable views from ports like Catania or Messina, which are popular stops on Mediterranean cruises. You can take guided tours to the slopes or even ride a cable car partway up the mountain.
Stromboli, Aeolian Islands (Italy)
Known as the “Lighthouse of the Mediterranean,” Stromboli has been erupting continuously for over 2,000 years. Some smaller cruise lines and luxury yachts include Stromboli on itineraries, where passengers can watch its frequent eruptions – especially dramatic at night – from the sea.
Kilauea, Big Island (Hawaii)
Hawaiian cruises often include a stop at Hilo, from where you can visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Kilauea, one of the world’s most active volcanoes, has erupted frequently in recent years. Lava flows, steam vents, and craters create a surreal, otherworldly landscape.
Mount Yasur, Vanuatu
This lesser-known gem in the South Pacific offers one of the most accessible active volcano experiences on Earth. Expedition and adventure cruise lines that call at Tanna Island often include evening visits to watch the spectacular lava eruptions up close.
White Island (Whakaari), New Zealand
Although currently closed to visitors due to a tragic eruption in 2019, White Island was once a popular cruise excursion from Tauranga. It’s a reminder that volcano tourism requires careful monitoring and respect for local safety guidance.
Sakurajima, Japan
Cruises to southern Japan sometimes stop in Kagoshima, where you can see the constantly smoking Sakurajima volcano. Ferries take visitors close to the volcano, and observation points around the city offer safe viewing spots.
How to Be Ready – Just in Case
It’s always wise to get travel insurance when booking a cruise, but be aware that coverage for natural disasters can vary.
If you’re worried about the risk of cancellation, look for a policy with a “cancel for any reason” option. This can offer more flexibility, even if you simply change your mind before travelling.
It’s also a good idea to pack a couple of N95 masks, just in case ash affects the air during your cruise.
If you’re flying to your departure port, consider arriving a few days early.
Booking your flight and hotel in advance gives you a buffer if anything changes. It’s also smart to make backup plans for your return – like childcare or pet sitters – in case your journey home is delayed.
Final Word
While the idea of a volcanic eruption near Anchorage may sound alarming, there’s little cause for concern if you’re heading to Alaska by cruise ship.
The chances of an eruption disrupting your plans are relatively low, and cruise lines are well-equipped to handle changes if needed.
With most Alaskan itineraries far from Mount Spurr, and ample warning likely before any major activity, you can look forward to your scenic voyage with confidence.
As always, a bit of preparation goes a long way – and who knows, a volcano sighting might even become the most unforgettable part of your adventure.
My Recommendation
My recommendation for cruise insurance depends on where you live.
These are trusted price comparison sites that will quickly get you lots of quotes to match your exact needs.
Related Posts
If you found this interesting, please share!
Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.
Loyal Carnival cruisers are in for a sea of change. The cruise line announced today, 18th June 2025, that its current VIFP (Very Important Fun Person) program will be phased…
A routine call at Juneau, Alaska, turned into a tense afternoon for passengers and crew on Celebrity Edge after the cruise ship broke free from its mooring lines during severe…
For passengers aboard Regal Princess this week, a call to Invergordon, Scotland turned into a logistical headache when shuttle delays of up to four hours caused hundreds to miss out…
For one would-be cruiser, a dream Alaskan getaway came to a screeching halt in Ketchikan, Alaska, when law enforcement arrested her just as she was preparing to board her ship….
13 Hotels Near Fort Lauderdale Cruise Port and Airport (2026 Guide)
The hotels nearest Fort Lauderdale cruise port cluster along SE 17th Street, within about a mile of the Port Everglades terminals, and around Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL), roughly 3 to 6 miles away. The 17th Street hotels (Omni, Hilton Marina, Renaissance, Embassy Suites, Hyatt Place) are the closest, while the airport hotels are usually cheaper and more likely to offer free airport shuttles and park-and-cruise deals.
Below you will find 13 hotels near Fort Lauderdale cruise port and the airport, grouped by location, with a comparison table covering distance, shuttles and price tier, plus practical details on taxis, Uber and cruise parking at Port Everglades.
Hotels Near Fort Lauderdale Cruise Port: Quick Comparison
Shuttle details change often, and many hotels that once ran free cruise shuttles now charge per person or use a third-party company. Information below comes from hotel websites where available and from recent cruise-port guides where not (“reported”). Price tiers are a rough guide only: $ is usually budget, $$ mid-range and $$$ upscale, and rates swing widely in peak winter cruise season.
| Hotel | To Port Everglades | Cruise shuttle | Airport shuttle | Parking / packages | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Omni Fort Lauderdale Hotel | Adjacent | Complimentary for eligible cruise guests and select packages | No hotel shuttle (about 3.5 miles) | Valet only; no park-and-cruise listed | $$$ |
| Hilton Fort Lauderdale Marina | 0.5 miles | Yes, about $15 per person | Yes, about $15 per person | On-site parking at a daily rate | $$$ |
| Renaissance Fort Lauderdale Marina Hotel | About 0.5 miles | Reported, fee applies | Check with hotel | Ask about packages | $$-$$$ |
| Embassy Suites by Hilton Fort Lauderdale 17th Street | About 1 mile | Reported, fee applies | Reported, fee applies | Ask about packages | $$ |
| Hyatt Place Fort Lauderdale Cruise Port & Convention Center | About 1 mile | Reported, fee applies | Reported, fee applies | Ask about packages | $$ |
| Crowne Plaza Ft. Lauderdale Airport/Cruise | About 1-2 miles | Reported (third-party, fee) | Reported free | Ask about packages | $-$$ |
| Four Points by Sheraton Fort Lauderdale Airport/Cruise Port | About 1.5 miles | Reported, fee applies | Reported free | Park and cruise package reported | $-$$ |
| Hampton Inn Ft. Lauderdale Airport North Cruise Port | About 3 miles | Reported, fee applies | Free (6am-11pm) | Park, Stay & Go: up to 7 nights | $-$$ |
| Hilton Garden Inn Ft. Lauderdale Airport-Cruise Port | About 5-6 miles | Check with hotel | Free | Self-parking about $10/day | $-$$ |
| Courtyard Fort Lauderdale Airport & Cruise Port | About 5 miles | Daily port transportation listed | Reported free | Ask about Cruise & Play package | $-$$ |
| Holiday Inn Express & Suites Ft. Lauderdale Airport/Cruise | About 3 miles | Reported (third-party, fee) | Reported free | Parking for a daily fee reported | $ |
| Wyndham Garden Ft. Lauderdale Airport & Cruise Port | About 3 miles | Reported, fee applies | Reported free | Ask about packages | $ |
| Courtyard Oceanside Fort Lauderdale Beach | Short drive (check map) | Included in Snooze then Cruise package | No | Long-term cruise parking offered | $$-$$$ |
Always confirm shuttle fees, times and whether you need to sign up in advance, especially on busy Saturdays and Sundays when several ships turn around at once.
Hotels Near Port Everglades on 17th Street
If you want the shortest possible trip to the ship, look at hotels near Port Everglades on or just off SE 17th Street. They put you close to the Convention Center, restaurants and the Intracoastal Waterway, and some are within a few minutes’ drive of the terminals.
1. Omni Fort Lauderdale Hotel
The newest big hotel in the area, the Omni sits beside the Broward County Convention Center, right next to the port. Its website says it offers a complimentary shuttle to the Port Everglades cruise terminals for eligible cruise guests and select packages, plus free luggage storage before check-in and after check-out. There is no hotel airport shuttle, but FLL is about 3.5 miles away. Parking is valet only and expensive, so it suits fly-in cruisers rather than drivers.
2. Hilton Fort Lauderdale Marina
On the Intracoastal Waterway about half a mile from the port, the Hilton Marina is a long-time pre-cruise favorite and a Disney Cruise Line partner hotel. Hilton lists shuttles to both Port Everglades and FLL at around $15 per person each way. On-site parking is charged daily, so it is better for a one-night stay than for leaving a car for a week.
3. Renaissance Fort Lauderdale Marina Hotel
Formerly marketed as the Renaissance Cruise Port Hotel, this Marriott property sits on 17th Street close to the port entrance, with a marina-view pool. A paid cruise shuttle has been reported; check current terms when you book.
4. Embassy Suites by Hilton Fort Lauderdale 17th Street
A good pick for families, since every room is a suite and Embassy Suites hotels typically include breakfast. It is about a mile from the port, and cruise-port guides report paid shuttles to both the port and the airport.
5. Hyatt Place Fort Lauderdale Cruise Port & Convention Center
A mid-range option about a mile from the terminals, with the usual Hyatt Place breakfast. Recent guides report paid shuttles to the port and the airport.
Fort Lauderdale Hotels With Cruise Shuttle Near the Airport
The airport hotels are typically 3 to 6 miles from the port, which is still only a 10- to 15-minute drive. In return, rates are often lower, most run a free airport shuttle, and several offer parking deals.
6. Crowne Plaza Ft. Lauderdale Airport/Cruise
Located between the airport and the port, this upscale-casual IHG hotel is one of the closest of the airport group. Guides report a free airport shuttle and a third-party cruise shuttle for a fee.
7. Four Points by Sheraton Fort Lauderdale Airport/Cruise Port
About 1.5 miles from the port near US-1. A park-and-cruise package has been reported, along with a paid cruise shuttle and a free airport shuttle.
8. Hampton Inn Ft. Lauderdale Airport North Cruise Port
Hilton lists a free FLL shuttle (6am to 11pm), self-parking at about $10 per day and free breakfast. It also takes part in Hilton’s Park, Stay & Go offer, which includes up to seven nights of parking with a one-night stay; Hilton notes that cruise port service varies by hotel, so check before booking.
9. Hilton Garden Inn Ft. Lauderdale Airport-Cruise Port
Hilton lists this hotel as about a mile from FLL, with a complimentary airport shuttle and self-parking for around $10 per day. The website does not mention a cruise shuttle, so plan on a taxi or rideshare to the port.
10. Courtyard Fort Lauderdale Airport & Cruise Port
Set beside lagoons in the Dania Beach area, this Courtyard says it provides daily transportation to the port, without stating a fee. Ask about its Cruise & Play package when booking.
11. Holiday Inn Express & Suites Ft. Lauderdale Airport/Cruise
A budget-friendly option with breakfast included as standard for the brand. Guides report a free airport shuttle and a third-party cruise shuttle for a fee.
12. Wyndham Garden Ft. Lauderdale Airport & Cruise Port
Another value pick near the airport with a pool and on-site dining. Guides report a paid cruise shuttle and a free airport shuttle.
13. Courtyard Oceanside Fort Lauderdale Beach
If you would rather wake up by the ocean, this Courtyard sits on Seabreeze Boulevard near Fort Lauderdale Beach. Marriott’s Snooze then Cruise package includes port transfers for two and luggage holding, and the hotel advertises long-term cruise parking. It is farther from the port than the 17th Street hotels, so allow extra time on embarkation day.
Fort Lauderdale Park and Cruise Hotels vs Port Parking
If you are driving, compare a park-and-cruise hotel package with parking at the port itself.
- Port Everglades parking: the port runs the Heron Garage (serving Terminals 2 and 4) and the Palm Garage (serving Terminals 19, 21, 25, 26 and 29), plus several surface lots. At the time of writing, the maximum daily rate is $25. Reservations and pre-payment are not accepted, and garage clearance is 7 feet, so taller vans may need a lot. A seven-night cruise works out at roughly $175 to $200 in parking.
- Park-and-cruise hotel packages: these bundle one night’s stay with several days of parking, sometimes with a shuttle. They can save money, but read the small print: some packages cap the number of nights, charge per day beyond that, or exclude the shuttle.
- Off-site lots: independent parking companies near the airport offer cheaper daily rates with shuttles, but check reviews and shuttle frequency.
Getting From FLL to Port Everglades
FLL is right next to Port Everglades, roughly 3 miles by road, so the transfer is short and simple.
- Taxi: taxis to and from the port are metered. Port Everglades estimates about $18 to $21 between the port and FLL, regardless of passenger numbers.
- Uber and Lyft: usually similar to a taxi, but expect surge pricing at peak disembarkation times. Use the designated rideshare pick-up areas at your terminal.
- Van on Demand: the port lists a shared van service at about $11 per person to FLL for groups of three or more, though it does not operate on every sailing day.
- Cruise line transfers: convenient but usually more expensive than a taxi for two or more people.
If you are comparing Florida departure ports, our guide to the cruise lines with the cheapest 7-day cruises out of Florida shows average prices by line.
Which Cruise Lines Sail From Port Everglades?
Port Everglades is one of the world’s busiest cruise ports. Its official list currently includes Celebrity Cruises, Royal Caribbean, Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Disney Cruise Line, Cunard, Viking, Crystal, the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection and Orient Express, plus the Balearia ferry to the Bahamas. Royal Caribbean’s Brilliance of the Seas is among the ships scheduled from Port Everglades in winter 2026-27; if you are booked on her, read our guide to Brilliance of the Seas cabins to avoid.
Tips for Choosing a Pre-Cruise Hotel
- Arrive the day before. Flight delays are common, and a hotel night is cheap insurance against missing the ship.
- Check the shuttle time against your boarding window. Hotel shuttles may run on a fixed schedule that does not match your check-in time.
- Know your terminal. Port Everglades has several terminals, and your cruise line’s documents will say which one to use.
- Keep essentials in your carry-on. Our embarkation day mistakes to avoid and ultimate cruise checklist cover what to pack for the first day on board.
If you would rather drive yourself to the port but only carry a debit card, read our guide on how to rent a car without a credit card before you book.
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.
If you end up sailing from Miami instead, it is worth comparing the garages and lots at PortMiami before you decide where to leave the car.
FAQs
How far is Fort Lauderdale airport from the cruise port?
Very close. Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) sits right next to Port Everglades, roughly 3 miles by road, and the drive usually takes about 10 to 15 minutes depending on traffic and your terminal.
Do hotels near Fort Lauderdale cruise port offer free shuttles?
Some do, but many now charge a per-person fee for the cruise shuttle, while the airport shuttle is more often free. Packages such as park-and-cruise or sail-and-stay deals sometimes include the port transfer. Always confirm the fee and timetable directly with the hotel.
How much does it cost to park at Port Everglades?
Port Everglades lists a maximum daily rate of $25 for its garages and lots at the time of writing. The port does not take reservations or pre-payment for parking, so it is first come, first served.
How much is a taxi from FLL to Port Everglades?
Port Everglades estimates a metered taxi fare of roughly $18 to $21 from FLL, regardless of the number of passengers. Uber and Lyft are often in a similar range, but prices surge at busy times.
Which cruise lines sail from Port Everglades?
The port lists Celebrity, Royal Caribbean, Princess, Holland America, Disney Cruise Line, Cunard, Viking, Crystal and several yacht-style lines among its cruise lines. Line-ups change by season, so check your cruise documents for your terminal.
How Long Is A Cruise To Hawaii?
Hawaii is a beautiful destination with some incredible scenery and culture to explore. But because of its location, it’s a little bit isolated – it’s not like the Caribbean where you can set sail from the US and be there within a day or two.
It’s worth knowing how long a cruise to Hawaii will take you, so that you can decide whether it’s right for you – are you happy with that number of sea days, or would you prefer to book an itinerary elsewhere?
Let’s take a look.
A typical round-trip cruise to Hawaii
Round-trip cruises to Hawaii tend to last for 14-15 nights and incorporate a number of sea days. It takes around five days of sailing for cruise ships to reach Hawaii from the US west coast, so most cruises are for 5 days of sailing, 5 days around Hawaii and then 5 days to return.
That’s quite a long time to spend at sea, so it’s important that you make sure you’re comfortable keeping yourself entertained during a cruise to Hawaii.
The cruise ships will of course be equipped with a lot of different things for you to see and do, but many people prefer the idea of stepping off the ship each day – that won’t be possible on a Hawaii itinerary.
The shortest cruises to Hawaii
The shortest cruises to Hawaii from a different destination tend to sail from either the US coast or from Canada and will last for 9 days. This gives the ship time to sail to the islands and then sufficient days to explore a couple of ports before guests disembark to fly home.
So if you were hoping to book 7 day cruises to Hawaii from California or other nearby destinations, you’re out of luck – by the time you get there, it’d be time to disembark.
These cruises will all be one-way and will require flights. The shortest cruises ‘around’ Hawaii are a little shorter and tend to last for 7 days, but these are fly-cruises where you will fly to Honolulu, board your ship, sail around the Hawaiian islands and then disembark in Honolulu to fly home.
If you’re comfortable with these options, this is often the best way to see Hawaii. You’ll get more time in the islands, seeing more of the ports and more of the scenery instead of a couple of quick port calls as part of a longer itinerary.
You can also combine a fly-cruise with a hotel stay on the islands, which is the ultimate way to sample Hawaii culture and soak up the atmosphere and sights either before or after your sailing.
There are also cruises that are a lot longer that incorporate Hawaii into their itineraries. Because Hawaii is quite a remote destination, ships will often use longer sailings to explore further afield destinations such as Western Samoa, Tahiti and other parts of French Polynesia.
These are sometimes offered as one-way itineraries either from the US or Canadian coastlines, although you can get return itineraries from the US – these will last around 28 days or so.
Cruises from California to Hawaii
Ports in California are the most common for cruises to Hawaii, with itineraries lasting anything from 14 nights up to epic longer journeys of 80 nights or sometimes even more. Cruises set sail from Los Angeles, San Francisco and San Diego, giving you plenty of choices.
That choice extends to the cruise lines as well. Cruises from LA depart from two different ports. Those from South Beach are limited to Carnival with most sailings taking place on Carnival Miracle, but the other ports offer more choice.
Los Angeles (San Pedro) has cruises to Hawaii with Princess Cruises and Viking Ocean Cruises, so you can choose between premium and luxury options.
Hawaii cruises from San Francisco are available on Princess Cruises, Cunard, Carnival and Holland America ships. Cunard and Holland America cruises to Hawaii are longer itineraries that last at least 17 days, but Princess and Carnival offer shorter two-week cruises.
And from San Diego, you can choose between Holland America and Princess again, with shorter itineraries from both cruise lines available, including on the popular Koningsdam.
If you want to cruise to Hawaii from California, you need to settle on a port first and then decide which cruise line is the best fit. But despite California being one of the closest states, there still aren’t any short Hawaiian cruises available.
Cruises from Florida to Hawaii
Cruises from Miami to Hawaii are available, but they are not common. The long journey means they tend to be included on world cruises only, or at least a leg of those, for luxury cruise lines.
Regent Seven Seas has a ‘shorter’ option which lasts 21 nights, cruising to the western coast of Central America after traversing the Panama Canal and then onto Hawaii where the cruise ends.
A longer cruise is available with Seabourn, which incorporates Caribbean ports before the Panama Canal, and then sails back to California once the Hawaii leg is complete. This lasts for 42 days.
Cruises from Vancouver to Hawaii
The shortest cruises to Hawaii depart from Vancouver, lasting just 9 nights on a one-way sailing. Most cruises last two weeks, including some round-trip options, but longer cruises of up to 65 nights are also available.
Vancouver doesn’t just offer the best choice when it comes to itinerary length, but also cruise line too. From Vancouver, you can sail to Hawaii with Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, NCL, Holland America, Princess and Seabourn.
Some itineraries are direct to Hawaii, while others will incorporate some Alaskan ports en route, giving you the chance to experience both extremes of nature’s scenery from glacial wonders to tropical greenery.
Cruises from Seattle to Hawaii
As Seattle is not a common departure port for many mainstream lines, cruises to Hawaii tend to be longer – from 22 nights to 63 nights. They are not generally offered as return cruises, instead ending either in Fiji, French Polynesia or Australia.
There are a handful of cruise lines offering these longer itineraries, including Carnival and Holland America. Seabourn is another option if you’d prefer a more luxurious cruise to the Hawaiian islands on your way to Australia, as one leg of a larger world cruise.
Suggested read: The Best Luggage Storage Places Near Seattle Cruise Terminal
Cruises from Australia to Hawaii
Cruises from Australia to Hawaii last for between 15 and 35 nights, depending on the itinerary. The cruises all depart from either Sydney or Brisbane, with shorter itineraries being one-way. Longer round trips are available.
Cruise lines offering these itineraries vary. Royal Caribbean used to, but there are none currently planned.
The time in Hawaii for these itineraries is short – sometimes there may not even be excursions available as the arrival is on the last day.
Longer itineraries are offered by Holland America and Princess Cruises, and will either be sailings from Australia to New Zealand via the Hawaiian islands, or they’ll continue on from Hawaii to the North American coastline. These tend to visit a couple of Hawaiian islands.
To conclude
There are a lot of different options for cruises to Hawaii, but most of them spend a couple of days at most exploring the islands before moving onto somewhere else.
This is great if you want variety, but be aware that the high number of sea days does mean you’ll need to make sure the ship has enough for you to stay entertained.
If you want the best overall Hawaii experience, and you aren’t looking for a super-long cruise, then the recommended option would be a fly-cruise that departs from Honolulu and says exclusively around Hawaiian ports.
You’ll get more time to put yourself amongst the Hawaiian culture and you won’t be stuck at sea for long periods of time.
NEW DEALS JUST RELEASED!
Don’t miss these hot cruise offers…
Related posts:
If you found this interesting, please share!
Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.
The Best Luggage Storage Spots Near Fort Lauderdale Cruise Port
If you’re taking a cruise from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, you may want to go sightseeing for a few hours before getting on the ship or have a few hours to kill before flying home in the evening.
Whether you’ve just arrived and have booked one of the hotels near Fort Lauderdale or are simply making the most of your departure day, you don’t want to be lugging around heavy bags.
But finding somewhere can be challenging, so I’ve read reviews, read forums and researched the top review sites for all the possible places to leave your luggage. From that, I’ve created this list of the best places to store baggage for the day near Fort Lauderdale.
There are several places where you can store luggage near Fort Lauderdale Cruise Port. Staff at the terminal often aren’t aware, but there are several cafes, shops and hotels that will store your suitcases securely for a few hours.
The cruise port in Florida, near Fort Lauderdale, is called ‘Port Everglades’. It’s the third busiest cruise port in the world, so it’s bound to be busy. So if you are planning to store your luggage, it’s a good idea to book online, to see if they have space available.
The best places to store luggage in Fort Lauderdale
Here’s my list of places to leave bags and suitcases near Fort Lauderdale…
1. Fort Lauderdale Airport Storage
If you’ve just got off a flight and have a few hours to spare before your cruise, the Fort Lauderdale Airport Storage provides an easy solution to store your luggage. ‘Bags To Go’ offers storage in each terminal.
The airport is a short taxi ride to Port Everglades, so as soon you drop your bags off, you can go and explore Fort Lauderdale and return later in the day.
To make sure there’s space for your luggage before you arrive, you can book online here.
Address: 100 Terminal Dr, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33315
Opening Times: 9am – 5.30pm Monday to Friday, closed Saturday and Sunday
Rates: $10 per bag/day
2. Press and Grind Cafe – Harbordale
Press and Grind Cafe offer luggage storage through the Bounce App. It has many happy customer reviews. It’s just under a mile from Port Everglades and has easy access to downtown Fort Lauderdale.
It’s also just a 15 minute walk to the water taxi point 4, where you can hop on and off around the Fort Lauderdale waterways when purchasing a day ticket.
On top of that, customers have reported that the cafe itself is one of the finest coffee shops around Fort Lauderdale. They have a great menu, from pastries to sandwiches, soups, salads, smoothies, and juices. So you could stop for a bite to eat too.
The only negative that a couple of people have reported is that as it’s so popular, there was a bit of a wait to drop the bags off.
You can book this location here.
Address: 1300 SE 17th St, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316
Opening Times: 7am – 6pm, Monday to Sunday
Rates: From $4.10 per bag/day
3. Sebastian Street Beach
This location is ideal if you would like to visit Sebastian Street Beach. It has plenty of popular shops, restaurants and bars and is a 20-minute drive north of Port Everglades and the airport.
Some customers have mentioned it can be challenging to find, but I’ve researched the details for you. This storage facility is tucked away in the small Beach Cafe in Beach Place Shopping Centre, next to the ice cream store on the 1st floor.
When arriving, speak to the staff, who will guide you to the storage room, where you will leave your luggage so you can head to the beach.
You can book this location here.
Address: 17 S Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd R112, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316
Opening Times: 24 hours
Rates: From $4.10 per bag/day
4. The UPS Store – Dania Beach Storage Spot
The third beach location is UPS Store, located on a main road, which is a 10-minute drive from the port.
After dropping your bags off, if you want to head onto the beach, it’s less than 2 miles away. It has a long fishing pier and award-winning “Blue Wave Beaches”, which is a very appealing spot to relax for the day.
You can book this storage here.
Address: 398 E Dania Beach Blvd, Dania Beach, FL 33004
Telephone: +1 954-923-9004
Opening Times: 8.30am – 7pm Tuesday – Friday, 9:30am – 3pm Saturday, 10am – 3pm Sunday, closed Monday.
Rates: From $6.90 per bag/day
5. Southwinds Inn – Hollywood Beach Storage
This luggage storage is located in the Southwinds Inn, which is about a 20-minute drive south of the cruise port. Again customers have highlighted the great location. If you store your bags here, you’ll be right on the beach alongside the boardwalk.
Some have mentioned they have also been offered a space to change before leaving to go to the airport or cruise terminal after their day at the beach.
You can book this location here.
Address: 322 Oregon St, Hollywood, FL 33019, United States
Telephone: +1 954-920-0490
Opening Times: 9am – 9pm, Monday to Thursday, 8am – 9pm Friday – Sunday
Rates: From $4.60 per bag/day
6. The UPS Store – SE 17th St Storage
Here is another UPS Store, which is about a 10-minute drive from the cruise port. It’s a short distance from South Port Shopping Center with plenty of restaurants too. However, if shopping is not your thing, there is also Lauderdale Harbors, a neighbourhood in Fort Lauderdale with waterfront homes, where you can watch the yachts and other beautiful boats.
Many customers have said this is a convenient and accessible location to store their luggage. Others have said the service was a bit slow, but it did the job.
You can book this luggage storage here.
Address: 757 SE 17th St, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316, United States
Telephone: +1 954-764-6900
Opening Times: 8am – 7pm Tuesday – Friday, 10am – 1pm Saturday, 9am – 12pm Sunday, closed Monday
Rates: From $6.90 per bag/day
7. UPS Store – Southland Shopping Plaza Storage
Another UPS store is on the list, but this one is located in Southland Shopping Plaza with plenty of outlet stores and restaurants. This location is not as close to the beach as other locations, but you may be ‘beached out’ after your cruise.
Customers have reported that it’s easy to book, drop the luggage off and easy to pick it up.
You can book this luggage storage here.
Address: 1005 W State Rd 84, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33315
Telephone: +19543684805
Opening Times: 8:30am – 6:30pm Tuesday – Friday, 9am – 5pm Saturday, closed Sunday and Monday
Rates: From $6.90 per bag/day
8. Mailbox Rentals Las Olas – Beverly Heights Storage
This storage facility is a Mailbox rental service, which is about a 15-minute drive from Port Everglades. It has very good reviews saying it was easy to use, convenient, and the employees were friendly and helpful.
It is located on a main road, which is on a bus route, which goes to the beach or the city centre. There are also plenty of large restaurant chains nearby.
You can book this luggage storage here.
Address: 1314 E Las Olas Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
Telephone: +1 954-467-8085
Opening Times: 8.30am – 5.30pm Monday – Friday, closed Saturday and Sunday
Rates: From $4.10 per bag/day
You can’t leave luggage at the port…
There are no luggage storage facilities at Port Everglades. Staff at the terminal may not be able to advise you of nearby places to leave bags either.
Your best option is to leave your luggage at one of these luggage storage facilities or at the airport. To ensure availability, it’s recommended that you book online ahead of time.
Related posts:
If you found this interesting, please share!
Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.
What To Do In Miami After A Cruise & Before A Flight
So you’ve just disembarked from your ship in Miami after a wonderful cruise. Your flight home isn’t until the evening, so you’ve got a day to kill.
Do you spend it sitting and enjoying the sights and sounds of the bustling airport, or do you actually make the most of this opportunity to explore one of the world’s most vibrant cities?
If you’ve chosen the latter, then this guide will be ideal – here’s a look at some of the best things to do after your cruise in Miami.
There are plenty of options for things to see and do in Miami after your cruise. The city is famous for its beach and shopping, but it also has excellent food options (including food tours), museums, street art and nature excursions you can enjoy.
There’s something for everyone – kid-friendly activities, gentle tours that don’t involve much walking, and stuff for thrill-seekers, with options that last from just an hour or two to longer adventures if you’ve got a whole day to fill.
It’s worth checking out some of these ideas because they all beat sitting at an airport waiting for your flight number to be called.
The best things to do in Miami after a cruise
Cultural ideas
Miami is a city that is packed with cultural attractions – from museums to street art. It’s definitely worth taking the chance to explore the beautiful history and iconic sights of the city while you’re in town.
1. Superblue Miami
Estimated duration: 90 minutes
Superblue Miami is one of the top art museums in the city. An immersive experience, you’ll be able to enjoy a host of amazing installations, including a mirrored labyrinth, digital recreations of worlds that are immersed in amazing waterfalls and flowers, and a stunning representation of your own heartbeat, created from 3,000 lights.
It’s not a huge attraction, so it’s a great size for a quick trip if you’ve an afternoon flight, or when paired with another attraction. It’s suitable for all ages.
2. Perez Art Museum
Estimated duration: 2 hours
The Perez Art Museum is filled with incredible artworks to enjoy, ranging from fine art and modern painting styles to sculptures and walk-through art experiences.
As with many art museums, the exhibitions change throughout the year, so if you enjoy the museum after one visit then it’s one to consider coming back to after your next cruise that ends in Miami – there’ll always be something new to enjoy. The museum takes around two hours to walk through, though you can meander if you have more time to kill.
3. Wynwood Graffiti Golf Cart Tour
Estimated duration: 1 hour
The Wynwood district in Miami is known as the warehouse district – but it’s so much more exciting than that. It has become the home of some of Miami’s finest street art, featuring incredible works from local artists that include smaller graffiti pieces and impressive full-wall murals.
This tour is ideal if you can’t walk far or are just feeling tired after your cruise – you’ll ride in a comfortable golf cart, seeing the art at a leisurely pace while you learn all about the architecture and history of the region.
4. Art Deco Walking Tour
Estimated duration: 2 hours
If you’re feeling active and you’re in the mood for a walking tour of Miami, one of the best options is to tour the Art Deco buildings of South Beach. This guided tour will teach you all about the history of the South Beach region, including the glamour and the seedy mob side.
You’ll learn more about the history of Art Deco in general, see Versace’s mansion, and just get to know the real story of one of the most vibrant neighbourhoods not just in Miami but in the whole of the US.
Relaxing ideas
While a cruise is a wonderful holiday, they can often be action-packed. And maybe, while you have time in Miami, you just want to take things a little easier. These relaxing attractions can help you wind down before you return home.
5. Miami Beach
Estimated duration: As long as you want
Miami is of course home to one of the world’s most famous beaches, and if you’ve never been then you can just head down and enjoy the fantastic atmosphere of the sands. Here there will be sunbathers, paddleboarders, jet skiers and more, and yes there will be plenty of people on rollerblades and roller skates along the beach front too.
It’s not a quiet beach, so don’t head there if you want a few hours of peace before you fly, but if you want to soak up the fun ambience of the beautiful sands, and see the local stores and bars while you’re there, then it’s worth spending a few hours exploring.
6. Hotel Resort Pass
Estimated duration: Up to 6 hours
While Miami Beach may not be the place to relax in peace and quiet, you aren’t short of options if that’s what you’re looking for. Miami has a host of beautiful hotels where you can buy a day resort pass to escape the hustle and bustle.
Day passes don’t cost the earth, though you may have to pay extra if you want a bed, a cabana or access to the hotel’s spa. However, if you just want to lounge by the side of the pool, sipping a cocktail and soaking up the Miami sunshine, this is a calm way to chill before dealing with the airport.
Family ideas
Travelling with kids? Miami has some great family attractions that can help stave off that boredom that often comes with tired tykes at the end of a cruise.
7. Miami Children’s Museum
Estimated duration: 3.5 hours
Miami Children’s Museum is a fantastic destination for anyone with younger children. Your ticket gets you a 3.5-hour play session where you can wander the museum and let your kids enjoy a whole host of interactive exhibits.
It’s also situated on Wilson Island, really close to the cruise terminals, so you don’t have to travel far to start enjoying all of the fun activities on offer. And then you’re only an 8-mile cab trip to the airport – making this a fantastic choice for restless kids.
8. Miami Seaquarium
Estimated duration: 4 hours
The Miami Seaquarium is one of the most popular family attractions in all of South Florida. It is home to a wide variety of marine sea life including penguins, sharks, seals, sea lions and all kinds of fish species.
There are dolphins too, and if you’ve got the budget to spare you can arrange to swim with them – or try one of the other close-up interaction experiences. The Seaquarium has all the facilities you need for a full day, including multiple dining options, so this is a great way to spend the time leading up to your flight.
9. Zoo Miami
Estimated duration: Up to 6 hours (including transport)
Another fantastic family-friendly attraction that can keep you busy for the whole day before a night flight is Zoo Miami. Here there are over 3,500 animals to see, with species from across the globe. There are various interactive exhibits and learning opportunities too, as well as a good choice of dining venues.
Just be aware that this is one of the furthest attractions from the port – you’ll need to factor in around 35 minutes’ drive from the cruise terminal, and then another 30 minutes to get to the airport, depending on traffic. So if your flight is mid-afternoon, give this one a miss.
Food-themed ideas
Whether you’re a die-hard foodie who loves to explore other cultures and sample their traditional dishes, or you just like the idea of visiting restaurants and snacking on your last day, these tours could be the ideal time-killer.
10. Little Havana Food and Walking Tour
Estimated duration: 2.5 hours
Enjoy a guided walking tour of Miami’s Little Havana neighbourhood and get the chance to try some of the best local delicacies from the Cuban restaurants all around. You’ll be able to try dishes like chicken plantain cups, guava pastries and the delicious flan ice cream, and taste the best empanada in the city.
As well as trying the food, you’ll see how Cuban cigars are rolled, meet the local artists and enjoy Cuban music, all whilst learning about the heritage of the neighbourhood and how the Cubans have lived there.
11. South Beach Cultural Food and Walking Tour
Estimated duration: 2.5 hours
If you like the idea of a walking and eating tour but want to look beyond just Cuban flavours, then this could be the more wide-ranging excursion to suit. South Beach is home to a fantastic variety of restaurants, and you’ll get to sample little bits of them all, including Cuban, Mediterranean, Colombian, Peruvian and Spanish.
The tour includes a look at the heritage of all of Latin America in Miami, and the way that the culture has helped to define the city. It’s quite an active tour, but one that is packed with great content and that will be a highlight of your entire getaway.
12. Traditional Cuban Cooking Class
Estimated duration: 4 hours
If you’ve got a little more time to kill before your flight and you don’t mind spending a little more on your food excursion, why not try a traditional Cuban cooking class before you head for home? This works well with an evening flight since you’ll be making your own dinner.
You’ll have a chef taking you through the lesson, and giving you info on the background of the dishes you prepare and the heritage of Cuban food. When the tour is over, you’ll get to take your recipes home with you so you can recreate the food again for family and friends.
Shopping ideas
Have you forgotten to pick up some souvenirs? Or do you just need a bit of retail therapy that’s different from the onboard luxury stores? There are two malls within easy reach of the cruise port.
13. Sawgrass Mills Mall
Estimated duration: Up to 6 hours
The Sawgrass Mills Mall is actually a little further outside Miami, and is a good option for Fort Lauderdale too. But the sheer volume of stores you can visit does make it worth the trip, provided you have the time to get back to the airport (it’ll take around 40 minutes).
There’s everything from famous department stores to boutique fashion shops and discount outlets too. Just be aware that if you take an organised tour then you may have to cut it short with a taxi to get to the airport, since the organised transport usually leaves the mall later in the day.
14. Dolphin Shopping Mall
Estimated duration: As long as you want
If you want to get your shopping done without being too far from the airport, the Dolphin Shopping Mall is a much better option – it’s just 10 miles from the main entrance to the airport, so you can get there really quickly.
It’s the city’s largest outlet and has over 240 stores, restaurants and more to explore, so you’ll have no trouble finding something to treat yourself to.
Adventure ideas
Still not quite got all that adrenaline-seeking out of your system on your vacation? There are some really exciting things to do in Miami after cruise breaks that can perfectly round off your trip.
15. Jet Ski Rentals
Estimated duration: 75 minutes
A lot of Miami is focussed around South Beach and the connecting islands, so what better way to explore them all than from the water on your own jet ski? You’ll get a boat ride to a launch point and then travel with a guide past Picnic Island to see some of the great views of the city.
It’s a thrilling way to see the sights, and it’s completely safe too. Your instructor will also take some photos of you on the jet ski for you to treasure, or just show off to your friends.
16. Everglades Tours
Estimated duration: 1-5 hours
The Everglades National Park is famous around the world for its unique scenery, and of course its wildlife. There are various tour lengths available, but on all, you’ll get the chance to see alligators, iguanas and other wildlife in their natural habitats.
It’s thrilling and a little nerve-wracking on an airboat, but a really interesting experience. Your guide will give you tons of information about the local creatures and how they live.
17. ATV Rental
Estimated duration: 90 minutes
If you want to get off the beaten track – especially if you’ve seen some of the main Miami sights before – then consider hiring an ATV and taking a tour of the off-road areas around Miami.
You’ll get to see parts of the coast away from the main tourist spots and have a thrill-packed time while you do it.
18. Deep Sea Fishing Trip
Estimated duration: 4 hours
No experience necessary – try your hand at deep-sea fishing and see what species you can catch under the tuition of an expert guide. You’ll get a full tutorial on how to use the equipment, and then head out on the boat to see if you can snare kingfish, grouper and snapper.
The boat trip is a scenic ride itself, so you’ll get to relax too – perfect if your partner is the fishing aficionado and you just want to take it easy for half a day.
Luxury ideas
Got some holiday cash left over that you want to spend, or do you just like living the high life? These luxury Miami excursions after cruise holidays are the cherry on top of your fantastic getaway.
19. Cruise of Millionaire Homes
Estimated duration: 90 minutes
This excursion isn’t really a luxury tour in itself – it’s actually quite cheap – but if you’re interested in the luxury lifestyle then it’s a lot of fun. You’ll go on a boat tour around the city, seeing all the multi-million dollar mansions that celebrities own around the islands.
There’s a cash bar on the boat too, along with snacks, so you can take it easy and see how the high life lives, even just for a short break before you fly home.
20. Private Yacht Cruise with Champagne
Estimated duration: 2 hours
It’s widely accepted that one of the best ways to see Miami is from a boat – so why not hire your own private yacht for a tour and escape the crowded vessels where seats are at a premium?
You’ll be able to take some stunning photos of the Miami skyline, all while sipping on Champagne and playing your favourite songs through the boat’s sound system. A wonderful, peaceful way to soak up the city.
21. Taste of Miami Helicopter Tour
Estimated duration: 20 minutes
If a boat isn’t doing it for you, why not see Miami from the sky? A private helicopter tour gets you right over the best sights, so you’ll be able to tick off Tahiti Beach, Biscayne Bay, Coconut Grove and more.
As well as the city, you’ll be flown over the Matheson County Preserve, where you may get lucky and see manatees and dolphins swimming below you.
Final word
There are so many options in Miami that these are just the best. It’s a fantastic city, with most of the attractions localised close to the centre and all easy to get to with a taxi or an Uber.
Just make sure you don’t dawdle too much and miss your flight!
You’ll also want to check out my guide to storing your luggage in Miami so that you don’t have to carry it around all day while enjoying your final excursions.
Related posts
If you found this interesting, please share!
Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.
16 Things To Do Near Port Canaveral Cruise Terminal
The best things to do near Port Canaveral are the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex (about 25 minutes away), a few hours on the sand at Jetty Park or Cocoa Beach, a waterfront lunch in The Cove watching ships sail out, and spotting manatees and birds in the lagoons around Merritt Island. If you’re lucky with timing, you can also watch a rocket launch. Most of these spots are within 10 to 30 minutes of the cruise terminals, so they work well on the day before you sail or on disembarkation day before an afternoon or evening flight.
Below are 16 things to do near Port Canaveral cruise terminal. Each one was open when we checked in late 2026, and each comes with rough driving times and price guidance. You’ll also find a planner based on how much time you have, plus tips on storing luggage and watching a launch from your ship.
Things to do near Port Canaveral: quick planner by time available
| Your situation | Realistic options | Watch out for |
|---|---|---|
| Full day before embarkation | Kennedy Space Center (allow 6 to 8 hours), or Brevard Zoo plus Cocoa Village, or a beach day with a pier sunset | Book a hotel with cruise parking or a shuttle so you aren’t rushed on sailing morning |
| Half day before embarkation | Cocoa Beach and Ron Jon, Jetty Park, or a wildlife drive at Merritt Island | Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer, so plan beach time for the morning |
| Disembarkation morning, flight after about 5pm | Kennedy Space Center through a cruise line transfer that stores your bags, or a rental car with bags in the trunk | KSC doesn’t allow suitcases inside, and Orlando airport (MCO) is about 45 minutes away |
| Disembarkation morning, flight around 1 to 3pm | A late breakfast in The Cove or a short beach walk only | Ships usually clear by mid-morning, and you need a buffer for MCO security |
16 things to do in Port Canaveral and nearby
1. Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
This is the main reason many cruisers arrive a day early. Highlights include Space Shuttle Atlantis, the Apollo/Saturn V Center (reached by bus tour), the rocket garden and simulators. It is roughly 15 miles from the port, about a 20 to 30 minute drive.
At the time of writing, one-day admission is about $77 for adults and $67 for children aged 3 to 11, plus tax. Parking is around $15 per car on top of that. Book online and check the official site for current hours and launch-day changes.
2. Watch a rocket launch
Launches from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station and Kennedy Space Center now happen very often, sometimes several times a week. Popular viewing spots near the terminals include Jetty Park, the waterfront decks in The Cove, and the beaches north of Cocoa Beach. On big launch days Jetty Park passes can sell out and roadside parking along SR 401 isn’t allowed. Check a launch schedule site the week you travel.
3. Jetty Park beach and fishing pier
Jetty Park is the port’s own beach park, right at the mouth of the shipping channel, a few minutes’ drive from the cruise terminals. It has a lifeguarded beach, fishing pier and picnic areas. It is also one of the best places to watch ships sail out in the late afternoon. Every vehicle needs a day pass, which you buy online in advance from the port’s shop. The park is normally open 7am to 9pm, but hours can change on launch days.
4. Eat and ship-watch in The Cove
The Cove is a strip of waterfront restaurants and bars on Glen Cheek Drive, beside the cruise terminals. Fishlips has an upstairs tiki deck with live music, where ships pass very close by. It is also a popular launch-viewing spot, so arrive early for a deck table. Grills Seafood Deck and Seafood Atlantic are long-standing choices for casual seafood. It’s the easiest thing to do near Port Canaveral without a car.
5. Cocoa Beach
Cocoa Beach is the classic Space Coast beach town, about 10 to 15 minutes south of the port on A1A. Parks such as Lori Wilson Park and Alan Shepard Park have facilities; parking costs vary by lot.
6. Westgate Cocoa Beach Pier
The pier stretches into the Atlantic and has restaurants, bars and souvenir shops, and you can fish from the end. Parking near the pier is paid and can fill up at busy times. The pier is roughly 10 to 15 minutes from the terminals.
7. Ron Jon Surf Shop
Ron Jon’s huge flagship store in Cocoa Beach is a landmark in its own right, with surfboards, beachwear and souvenirs. It is known for very long opening hours, but check current hours if you plan a late visit.
8. Manatee Sanctuary Park
This small, free city park in Cape Canaveral sits on the Banana River. Manatees are often seen from its boardwalk, especially in cooler months, and it’s about 10 minutes from the port.
Wildlife, nature and outdoor things to do near Port Canaveral
9. Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge
The refuge shares land with NASA and is one of Florida’s top birding areas. Expect alligators, wading birds and, in winter, migrating ducks. The Black Point Wildlife Drive is a slow loop you can drive in your own car. A refuge pass costs about $10 per vehicle per day.
The drive has had temporary flooding closures recently, and NASA can restrict access around launches. Check the refuge’s visitor page or call the visitor center before you go. Allow about 30 minutes to drive there from the port.
10. Canaveral National Seashore (Playalinda Beach)
Playalinda is the northern edge of the Space Coast. It is an undeveloped barrier-island beach with dunes, no high-rises and views toward the launch pads. A vehicle pass costs about $25 and is valid for seven days. The park doesn’t take cash. Allow 40 to 50 minutes each way, and expect closures before some launches.
11. Kayak or paddleboard the Thousand Islands
The mangrove islands in the Banana River behind Cocoa Beach are a calm place to paddle. Guided tours often spot dolphins and manatees. In the warm months, some operators run night tours to see bioluminescence in the water. Expect guided trips to cost roughly $40 to $70 per person, depending on the season and the tour length.
12. Airboat or eco-boat tour
Airboat rides on the St. Johns River marshes, west of the Space Coast, are a quick way to see alligators. Pontoon eco-tours on the Indian River Lagoon are gentler and good for dolphins and manatees.
13. Deep-sea fishing charter
Charter boats leave from Port Canaveral’s marinas, so the fishing grounds are close. Half-day trips can target snapper, kingfish and mahi, depending on the season. Shared “head boat” trips are the budget option; private charters cost far more.
History, culture and family days out near the cruise port
14. Cape Canaveral Lighthouse tour
The 1868 lighthouse stands inside Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, so you can only visit it on a pre-booked tour. Tours run through Canaveral Tours, require a security clearance arranged before the tour, and include stops at launch-related museums on the base. Reported prices run from about $35 to $62.50, and tours last two to four hours. Book well ahead, because the clearance takes time.
15. Historic Cocoa Village
Cocoa Village is about 20 to 25 minutes inland. It is a walkable riverside district of brick streets, independent shops, galleries, cafes and restaurants, with regular events and live theatre.
16. Brevard Zoo
Brevard Zoo is in Melbourne, roughly 40 to 45 minutes south. Its themed areas include Africa, Australia, Florida wildlife and rainforest. Paid extras include giraffe feeding and a zipline course. Online prices are about $35 for adults and $23 for children aged 3 to 11. The zoo is usually open 9:30am to 5pm, with last entry at 3:30pm.
What’s closed or paused right now
Older lists of things to do in Port Canaveral often include two places you can’t currently visit. Exploration Tower, the port’s observation tower and museum, has been closed since 2022 and was still looking for a new tenant in 2026. Victory Casino Cruises suspended its Port Canaveral sailings in 2026 while its ship was in an extended dry dock. If you find either on an itinerary, check before you plan around it.
Luggage storage on disembarkation day
This is where many post-cruise plans fall apart. Kennedy Space Center doesn’t allow luggage or large bags inside, and the port has no public left-luggage office. Here are the practical options:
- Cruise line transfer packages. Several lines sell a KSC-plus-airport package. Your bags stay on the coach while you tour the complex, then it takes you to MCO. Carnival’s version, for example, has started at around $120 per adult and needs a flight after 5pm.
- A rental car. Rental offices near the port run short shuttles, and you can lock your bags in the trunk.
- App-based storage. Services such as Bounce list partner shops in the Cape Canaveral and Cocoa Beach area. These typically charge a few dollars per bag per day. Check the opening hours and distance from the port before you book.
- Check bags early at the airport. Some airlines accept checked bags only a few hours before departure, so confirm first. If you’re also bracing for long security lines, our guide to CLEAR vs TSA PreCheck for cruisers explains which one helps more at MCO.
Watching a launch from your ship
Launches often happen while ships are docked or sailing nearby. A few tips:
- Check a launch tracker in the days before you sail. Launch times often slip by hours or days, so treat any date as provisional.
- Go to the highest open deck on the side facing north toward the pads. On a sail-away the launch may be behind the ship, so the aft decks often have the best view.
- Launch hazard zones can occasionally affect ship timings.
Getting around and practical tips
- Parking: Port Canaveral’s cruise terminal parking rose to $20 per day plus tax in October 2025. Terminal lots are for cruise guests only, so you can’t park there for day trips.
- Transport: Taxis and rideshares cover The Cove, Jetty Park and Cocoa Beach easily. For KSC, Merritt Island and the zoo, a car is far more practical.
- Flights: If you’re flying in, arriving the day before your cruise gives you time to explore and a buffer for delays. Our guide on the best time to book flights can help keep costs down.
If you’re still choosing a sailing from Florida, browse our roundup of cruise deals for 2027 and build an extra day on the Space Coast into your trip.
If you are flying in for your sailing, compare the transfer options from every nearby airport before you book a ride to the port.
FAQs
Is there anything to do at Port Canaveral itself?
Yes. Next to the terminals you can eat and watch ships in The Cove, spend time on the beach and pier at Jetty Park, and visit the free Manatee Sanctuary Park. Cocoa Beach is only 10 to 15 minutes away.
How far is Kennedy Space Center from Port Canaveral cruise terminal?
It is about 15 miles, usually a 20 to 30 minute drive depending on traffic and which terminal you leave from.
Can I visit Kennedy Space Center after my cruise with luggage?
Not with suitcases, because KSC doesn’t allow luggage inside. Use a cruise line transfer package that keeps your bags on the coach, keep them in a rental car, or use a storage service, and allow time to reach MCO afterwards.
Can you see a rocket launch from a cruise ship at Port Canaveral?
Often, yes, if a launch happens while your ship is in port or nearby. Head to a high open deck. Check a launch schedule close to your dates, because launch times frequently change.
What is the closest beach to Port Canaveral cruise terminal?
Jetty Park, the port’s own beach park, is just a few minutes from the terminals. You need a vehicle day pass bought online in advance.