Make the Most of Your Cruise from Port Canaveral
Why You Should Add Extra Vacation Days Before or After Sailing
If you're sailing out of Port Canaveral (read: Florida Cruise Port Comparison), you're in for an exciting adventure. This bustling Central Florida port is one of the busiest in the world—yet it's surrounded by relaxed beaches, iconic attractions, and some of the most family-friendly vacation options in the U.S. And here's my travel advisor tip: don't just treat your cruise like a standalone trip. Build in a few extra days before or after to turn it into a full-on vacation.
Whether you're looking to unwind on the beach, geek out at Kennedy Space Center, or squeeze in some Disney magic, adding extra time around your cruise is the smartest move you can make.
Why Port Canaveral Is the Perfect Launch Point
Port Canaveral is located on Florida’s Space Coast, about 45 minutes from Orlando International Airport (MCO). It’s the homeport for popular cruise lines like Disney Cruise Line, Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, and MSC, making it an ideal gateway for Caribbean and Bahamas cruises.
The port itself is modern and traveler-friendly with:
Multiple cruise terminals with organized drop-off zones
Efficient security and check-in processes
Convenient parking garages right next to the terminals
Easy access to rental cars, shuttles, and rideshares
Proximity to hotels, restaurants, and attractions—many just minutes away
Local Tip: If you're sailing with Disney Cruise Line, Terminal 8 is your departure point—designed specifically for Disney, with whimsical touches even before you board the ship.
Reasons to Add Extra Vacation Days
1. Travel Buffer:
Flight delays, lost luggage, or traffic can turn a cruise day departure into a nightmare. Arrive at least one day early—two if possible—to start your cruise stress-free.
2. Make the Most of the Area:
You’re in a prime location to explore Cocoa Beach, Cape Canaveral, Kennedy Space Center, and of course, Orlando’s world-class theme parks.
3. Vacation Value:
Adding a few days gives you time to slow down and soak up the Florida sunshine. And with many stay-and-cruise packages, you can get great deals on hotels that include parking or shuttle service to the port.
Pre-Cruise: Get in the Vacation Mindset Early
Stay Near the Port
Top Hotel Picks in Cocoa Beach & Cape Canaveral:
Four Points by Sheraton Cocoa Beach – Walk to the beach, great pool, and cruise shuttle available.
Homewood Suites by Hilton Cape Canaveral – Suites with kitchenettes, free breakfast, and cruise packages.
Radisson Resort at the Port – One of the most popular for cruisers, with tropical vibes and on-site shuttle.
What to Do:
Cocoa Beach – Lounge on soft sands, take a surf lesson, or grab a bite at Coconuts on the Beach.
Kennedy Space Center – Don’t miss the Shuttle Atlantis exhibit, Rocket Garden, and bus tour to launch pads.
Port Canaveral Exploration Tower – Great for panoramic views and learning about the port’s maritime history.
Ron Jon Surf Shop – The original location of this iconic surf store is open 24/7.
Post-Cruise: Stretch Out the Fun
After your cruise ends, why rush home? You’re already in one of the most vacation-worthy areas in the U.S. This is your chance to add more magic, thrills, or relaxation before heading back to reality.
Walt Disney World: Pre- or Post-Cruise Magic
If your cruise was with Disney Cruise Line, continuing the magic at Walt Disney World is a no-brainer. It’s about a 1-hour drive from Port Canaveral to Disney property in Lake Buena Vista, Florida.
Options for Your Stay:
Disney Resorts: Stay on-property for full immersion and perks like early park entry and complimentary transportation. Great family picks include:
Pop Century (Value)
Caribbean Beach (Moderate)
Beach Club or Polynesian (Deluxe)
Off-Property Resorts: There are excellent hotels with shuttle service near Disney Springs or Bonnet Creek, perfect for short stays.
Must-Dos:
Magic Kingdom – Classic Disney magic with Cinderella’s Castle, Space Mountain, and parades.
EPCOT – Stroll through 11 countries in World Showcase and ride Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind.
Animal Kingdom – Don’t miss the floating mountains of Pandora and the safari ride.
Disney Springs – Dining, shopping, and entertainment (no ticket needed). Great for a relaxed half-day post-cruise.
How Many Days?
Even 1 or 2 park days can be plenty. A Disney park hopper ticket lets you visit multiple parks in one day if you’re short on time.
Universal Orlando Resort: Thrills for All Ages
Just like Disney, Universal Orlando is about an hour from Port Canaveral and makes a fantastic pre- or post-cruise stop—especially for families with older kids, teens, or Harry Potter fans.
Where to Stay:
Cabana Bay Beach Resort – Retro-themed and budget-friendly with early park entry.
Royal Pacific Resort – Includes FREE Unlimited Express Pass (skip the lines!), great for short stays.
Surfside Inn & Suites – Affordable with family suites and shuttle access.
Must-Dos:
Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ride the Hogwarts Express between Diagon Alley (Universal Studios) and Hogsmeade (Islands of Adventure).
Jurassic World VelociCoaster – One of the most thrilling coasters in Florida.
Volcano Bay Water Park – Great for families post-cruise, with cabanas and TapuTapu wristbands to hold your place in line.
CityWalk – Universal’s nightlife and dining district—perfect for a no-park day.
How Many Days?
Universal is compact enough to enjoy in 1–2 days, especially with Express Pass. A 1-day park-to-park ticket gets you access to both Universal parks, including the full Harry Potter experience. With Epic Universe opening, however, you may want to dedicate a full day to that brand new park as well!
Sample Add-On Itineraries
2-Night Pre-Cruise Itinerary:
Day 1: Arrive, check into Cocoa Beach hotel, relax by the ocean.
Day 2: Spend the day at Kennedy Space Center or beach + Exploration Tower.
Day 3: Board your cruise refreshed and excited!
2-Night Post-Cruise Disney Itinerary:
Day 1: Disembark, transfer to Disney, explore Disney Springs or relax by the resort pool.
Day 2: Visit Magic Kingdom or EPCOT with a park hopper pass.
Day 3: Enjoy a resort breakfast, then head to the airport.
2-Night Post-Cruise Universal Itinerary:
Day 1: Disembark, transfer to Universal, enjoy dinner and fun at CityWalk.
Day 2: Full day at the parks with Express Pass.
Day 3: Relax at Volcano Bay or pool before heading to the airport.
Travel Tips from a Travel Advisor
✔️ Use a Travel Pro – I help families and couples coordinate cruise packages with pre- and post-cruise extensions, including hotels, transportation, and park tickets.
✔️ Book Early – Disney and Universal hotels sell out fast, especially during peak seasons.
✔️ Ask About Packages – Many options combine theme park tickets, resort stays, and transfers for convenience and savings.
✔️ Airport Transfers – Consider private or shared shuttles between Orlando airport, Port Canaveral, and resorts. I can help set these up for a seamless experience.
Let’s Build Your Cruise + Florida Combo Vacation
Ready to turn your cruise into a full-blown Florida adventure? Whether you want to spend extra time on the beach, launch into the world of space exploration, or cap off your vacation with castle views or roller coasters, I’m here to help you plan it all.
