Departure Cruise Ports in Florida

Table Of Content

• Your Ultimate Guide to Florida Ports For Cruises
• A Cruiser’s Warning: The 18 Worst Ports on the High Seas
• Carnival Glory starts Transatlantic crossing following 21-day drydock refurbishment
• Mauritius To Open New Cruise Terminal in November
• Unique Theme Nights You Shouldn’t Miss When on a Cruise Ship
• Sailing from Florida on a Vacation Getaway

Originally built as a military port in the early 1950s, it later evolved into a thriving hub for both commercial and cruise ships. Today, Port Canaveral offers a gateway to exciting cruise adventures, allowing travelers to combine their love for space exploration with unforgettable ocean voyages. Other popular Florida cruise ports include Tampa, Fort Lauderdale, and Miami.

Your Ultimate Guide to Florida Ports For Cruises

DeSantis Faces Critical Decision on Cruise Ships in Key West - The New York Times

DeSantis Faces Critical Decision on Cruise Ships in Key West.

Posted: Sat, 25 Nov 2023 08:00:00 GMT [source]

For more information about other cruise ports, check out our comprehensive cruise ports guide. 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. Though, other Caribbean, Bahamas, and Panama Canal itineraries originate in the city as well. Cruise lines that sail from Tampa include Royal Caribbean, Carnival, Norwegian, and Celebrity. The embarkation process in Florida’s cruise ports is designed with precision to handle the influx of passengers efficiently. Upon arrival, passengers typically engage in a check-in procedure, which involves verifying travel documents and receiving boarding information.

A Cruiser’s Warning: The 18 Worst Ports on the High Seas

While its port operations began with cargo and trade, the allure of the Caribbean and the Bahamas made it a prime spot for shorter luxury cruise getaways. While rockets soared overhead, the port began catering to fishing vessels and cargo ships in the 1950s. With Florida’s tourism boom, it wasn’t long before cruise liners became a familiar sight, taking advantage of the port’s prime location along Florida’s east coast. Fall, winter and spring are hands-down the best seasons to visit Florida and the nearby Caribbean islands weather-wise. During these cooler months, temperatures hover in the 80s while the sun is out and dip into the 70s at night.

Carnival Glory starts Transatlantic crossing following 21-day drydock refurbishment

It serves as a homeport for several cruise lines, including Royal Caribbean International. Cruises departing from Port Canaveral offer itineraries to the Bahamas, the Caribbean, Mexico, and other popular destinations. The port is strategically located near popular tourist attractions, including the Kennedy Space Center and Cocoa Beach. Its location is convenient, being close to downtown Miami and providing easy access to major highways and Miami International Airport.

A more affordable option is Comfort Inn and Suites but the amenities are much different. 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. Port Canaveral is conveniently located near Orlando International Airport (MCO), which is just a one-hour drive away.

Unique Theme Nights You Shouldn’t Miss When on a Cruise Ship

While most cruises head out of Miami, Fort Lauderdale, or Port Canaveral… there are a few lesser known ports that cruise ships either depart from or visit. Starting May 2019, Harmony OTS offers 7-night Eastern and Western Caribbean roundtrip itineraries. Also in 2019, Mariner OTS (max capacity 4200 passengers plus 1180 crew) was homeported here for 3-4-night roundtrips to The Bahamas.

What are the Florida cruise ports?

Statistics showed that just in March 2017, the number of visiting cruiseship tourists was 469,847. Port's FY2017 total revenues were USD 47,4 million (freight and passengers). Following President Donald Trump's executive order on immigration, in late-January 2017 were officially issued reports about cruise passengers being detained by US Customs and Border Protection. All detainees had to provide background info about them, their families and also their past life in their native countries. Trump's executive order was signed on January 27th and includes a 90-day ban on travel to the USA by citizens of Iraq, Syria, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Somalia, Yemen. It exports fresh citrus and bulk frozen citrus juice is stored in one of the biggest freezer warehouses in the state.

Florida's ports see record highs in cargo and cruise traffic - South Florida Sun Sentinel

Florida's ports see record highs in cargo and cruise traffic.

Posted: Wed, 31 Jan 2024 08:00:00 GMT [source]

Alternatively, if you’re flying into Florida, look into transportation services that can take you directly from the airport to the port. From luxury ships to family-friendly options, there’s something for everyone at this vibrant and dynamic cruise port. Port Canaveral, situated near Orlando and Cocoa Beach, has a unique connection to the space industry.

Best Relaxing Beaches in Florida

This strategy ensures a smoother and more relaxing start to your vacation, especially when traveling with family. For family fun, consider ports like Port Canaveral, near the Kennedy Space Center, that offer entertaining options for kids and adults alike. And if the bustling atmosphere of the world’s busiest cruise port isn’t your scene, perhaps a smaller, cozier port like Jacksonville Port might be your cup of tea. From sipping cocktails on the beach to dancing the night away in the city’s vibrant clubs, Port Miami is the ultimate prelude to your cruise vacation.

From seafood spots offering the freshest catch to Cuban restaurants serving authentic dishes, there’s something to satisfy every palate. Once at the port, there are several parking options available for those who choose to drive. The port provides ample signage and assistance for visitors, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience. Additionally, the world-renowned Miami Beach, known for its stunning coastline and vibrant nightlife, is within easy reach. For history buffs, the nearby Vizcaya Museum and Gardens offers a glimpse into Miami’s past with its preserved mansion and beautiful gardens.

Not only will the cruise lines differ, some ports may specialize in certain types of cruises, such as shorter Caribbean itineraries or longer voyages to South America. The ship features a variety of amenities, including multiple restaurants and bars, a casino, a spa, and a water park. It also offers a range of activities for passengers of all ages, from live music and comedy shows to watersports and outdoor games. This popularity has earned Port Canaveral the title of “busiest cruise port in the world”.