Florida Cruise Ports: What to Do Before or After Your Cruise Sets Sail
Cruising out of Florida? You’re in good company—Florida is the cruise capital of the world, home to some of the busiest and best-connected ports on the globe. Whether you’re setting sail from Port Canaveral, Miami, Fort Lauderdale, or Tampa, there’s a world of fun to be had before (or after) you board. And as a travel advisor, I always encourage travelers to fly in a day early—because flight delays happen, and nobody wants to miss their ship!
So what do you do with that extra day (or two)? Each Florida cruise port offers unique experiences that can turn your cruise vacation into a full-on Florida getaway. Here's how to make the most of the time on land.
Port Canaveral (Orlando Area)
Port Canaveral is just 45 minutes from Orlando, making it a dream launch point for families and theme park lovers.
Top Activities:
Kennedy Space Center: Explore real space shuttles, meet astronauts, and even experience a shuttle launch simulator. It’s educational and incredible.
Cocoa Beach: Just minutes from the port, Cocoa Beach is a great place to unwind with sand between your toes. Don’t miss the iconic Ron Jon Surf Shop!
Orlando Theme Parks: If you're extending your stay, consider a day at Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, or SeaWorld. Even one day is enough for a thrill.
Pro Tip: Book a hotel near Cocoa Beach for a more relaxing pre-cruise experience, and save the theme parks for a post-cruise reward.
PortMiami
Known as the “Cruise Capital of the World,” PortMiami puts you right in the heart of a vibrant, international city full of art, beaches, and Cuban flair.
Top Activities:
Little Havana: Walk Calle Ocho, sip Cuban coffee, and watch locals play dominos in Máximo Gómez Park.
Wynwood Walls: Art lovers and Instagrammers will adore this outdoor museum of bold, colorful murals.
South Beach: People-watch, dip your toes in the Atlantic, or enjoy a frozen cocktail on Ocean Drive.
Pro Tip: Consider a Biscayne Bay boat tour or Everglades airboat adventure if you’ve got half a day and want a dose of nature with your urban escape.
Port Everglades (Fort Lauderdale)
Just 30 minutes north of Miami, Port Everglades has a laid-back, coastal feel with a touch of glamour.
Top Activities:
Las Olas Boulevard: Great for boutique shopping, art galleries, and waterfront dining.
Fort Lauderdale Beach: Quieter than South Beach but just as beautiful, it’s perfect for families or anyone who wants to relax in style.
Water Taxi Ride: See “the Venice of America” from the water—great for sightseeing and bar-hopping!
Pro Tip: Many hotels near the port offer shuttle service, so you can explore without renting a car.
Port Tampa Bay
Cruising from Tampa? You’ll find a fun mix of history, wildlife, and Gulf Coast charm.
Top Activities:
Ybor City: Tampa’s historic Cuban neighborhood is full of old-world charm, cigar shops, and nightlife. A guided food tour is a tasty way to learn the history!
Florida Aquarium: Located right by the port, this is a fantastic family-friendly activity.
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay: If you have time to spare and love thrill rides, this theme park combines a top-tier zoo with roller coasters.
Pro Tip: Tampa is a great embarkation point for cruisers driving in from the southeastern U.S.—lots of affordable parking options and an easygoing vibe.
Why It’s Worth Exploring Cruise Ports
Cruising is amazing, but don’t overlook the ports you sail from! These cities offer something for everyone—whether you're craving adrenaline, culture, relaxation, or something totally off the beaten path.
As your travel advisor, I can help plan your pre- or post-cruise stay, arrange transfers, and even bundle your trip with park tickets or excursions. Adding just a day or two on land can elevate your cruise vacation from fun to unforgettable.
Ready to cruise smarter and smoother? Let’s plan a Florida cruise escape that starts before the ship even leaves port!