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Port Canaveral is often referred to as Orlando’s cruise port, thanks to its less-than-an-hour drive to the city’s downtown area. Located on Merritt Island in Cape Canaveral, Port Canaveral is central to both northern and southern Florida. If you’re flying in day-of (which we don’t recommend), your cruise line may also have a shuttle directly from the airport to the cruise port.
I cruised Royal Caribbean from Tampa for the first time. Here's what a cruise from this smaller port is like. - Royal Caribbean Blog
I cruised Royal Caribbean from Tampa for the first time. Here's what a cruise from this smaller port is like..
Posted: Fri, 17 Nov 2023 08:00:00 GMT [source]
Port 2: Port Canaveral
MCO and MLB are located about a 45 minutes’ drive away and SFB is located about an hour away. Fishing expeditions, the street arts scene along with rotating exhibits in the Cork Arts District and taste creations from a new generation of Southern chefs await. Also, make time to visit one of the twelve museums in the city offering impressive collections of the culture, history, art, and science from the area. You are also assuming that your transportation at other end to get you from the airport to your cruise port works according to plan. And that they are no delays, accidents, traffic chaos or strikes that could delay you.
Port 4: Tampa
Located in Northeast Florida, JAXPORT stands out for its ease of access, smaller crowds, and personalized service, making it an attractive choice for those starting their Carnival cruise adventure. Carnival Cruise Line offers a variety of shore excursions that highlight the natural beauty and adventure of the Western Caribbean. The terminals also feature amenities such as snack bars and gift shops to browse while waiting to board.
Port Everglades (Fort Lauderdale)
Public transportation through Tampa’s TECO Line Streetcar is also available, but we don’t recommend it for getting to the cruise port because only one route runs near it. Port Everglades is located a quick 10-minute drive from Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport. Many hotels offer airport and cruise port shuttles, and there are also independent shuttle company options. Florida’s cruise ports are among the busiest and most recognized shipping ports in the world, with Port Canaveral overtaking PortMiami as the busiest cruise port on the planet in 2022.
It is situated on the east coast of Florida, just north of Palm Beach, and offers a convenient location for those seeking a quick getaway to the Caribbean. If you choose to drive, the port features multiple parking garages with shuttle services to the cruise terminals. There are also several hotels near the port that offer park-and-cruise packages for guests. Some of the popular cruise lines that operate out of Port Everglades include Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Celebrity Cruises, Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, and Royal Caribbean.
Having these items readily accessible will help to expedite the check-in process and get you onboard quickly. If you do have time to kill in Jacksonville before or after your cruise, check out the Museum of Science and History, or the popular Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens. The port in Tampa is significantly smaller than the three major ports in Florida – it has a typical passenger number of around 1 million each year. This still puts it in probably the top 30 ports in the world, around a similar size to New Orleans, Juneau and Piraeus, the port for Athens. There’s not a huge range of famous attractions nearby beyond that though, although you can always find good restaurants and some interesting shops within easy reach.
The Star of the Show: Port Miami
Set sail from Tampa, Orlando, Miami or Fort Lauderdale for a week long travel vacation that hits some of the best ports in the Caribbean. When it comes to dining, there are plenty of options near Port Everglades that cater to a range of tastes. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite before your cruise or a leisurely meal, you’ll find an array of restaurants offering everything from fresh seafood to international cuisine.

Centrally located, the Port of Tampa is easily accessible via various modes of transportation. It’s a short drive from the Tampa International Airport, making it a convenient choice for those flying in. Once at the port, a network of shuttles, taxis, and public transportation are available for navigating the surrounding areas.
Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or a first-time traveler, the port’s top-notch facilities and exciting itineraries will ensure a memorable vacation. Ever since the first cruise ship made its maiden voyage from Port Miami in the early 1930s, Floridians have been in love with the idea of cruising. In the years since, the Sunshine State has become one of the world’s most popular cruise destinations, with millions of passengers embarking on cruise vacations each year. Florida’s cruise ports have a rich and storied past, with each port contributing to the state’s vibrant maritime heritage.
As you can see, these Florida cruise ports offer a gateway to an array of sun-soaked destinations and adventures. From the vibrant culture of Miami to the enchanting beaches of Tampa Bay and the tropical allure of the Caribbean. Selecting the perfect destination is like crafting your own dream voyage, where each port promises new experiences and memories waiting to be made. Its convenient downtown Tampa location makes it a great option for those who want to spend some time in Tampa before or after their voyage, then hop on the ship without much of a (or any!) drive.
Leading the pack as the busiest cruise port globally is the Port of Miami, followed closely by Port Canaveral and Port Everglades, both of which are also among the world’s busiest. Tampa and Jacksonville offer their own unique cruise experiences, drawing passengers with their charm and services. Florida is home to six key cruise ports, each offering its own gateway to oceanic adventures. The terminals and surrounding areas offer shopping and dining options for cruise passengers.
Whether you’re interested in relaxing on the beach, discovering local shops and restaurants, or immersing yourself in the city’s history and culture, Jacksonville has something for everyone. With its prime location in the heart of South Florida, Fort Lauderdale offers a vibrant and dynamic atmosphere, perfect for pre- or post-cruise exploration. Fort Lauderdale truly complements the cruise experience and ensures memorable moments both on and off the ship. Other popular Florida cruise ports include Tampa, Fort Lauderdale, and Miami.
Before you plan your trip, you should consider which cruise lines and itineraries are available from each port. Some ports may offer a wider variety of cruise lines and itineraries than others. One of the main attractions of the Port of Jacksonville is its proximity to popular tourist destinations in the Jacksonville area. Visitors can explore the nearby beaches of Amelia Island and Jacksonville Beach or enjoy world-class golf courses like TPC Sawgrass, home of The Players Championship. Port Tampa Bay is home to several popular cruise lines, including Carnival Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean International, and Norwegian Cruise Line.
Some popular dining areas include the Harbor Shops Mall and the aforementioned Las Olas Boulevard. Tampa is a popular departure and arrival point for cruise passengers, with its Port Tampa Bay serving as a gateway to the Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico. Port Tampa Bay homeports six vessels, including ships from Carnival Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean. Florida's east coast is home to Port Canaveral, a particularly well-liked cruise port.
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