Located along Florida’s Space Coast, Port Canaveral Cruise Port welcomes around 7 million passengers annually, with many visitors relying on nearby airports for their journeys.
Of the dozen international airports in the state, there are four that are within driving distance of Port Canaveral: Orlando International Airport (45 miles away), Melbourne Orlando International Airport (27.5 miles away), Orlando Sanford International Airport (60.8 miles away), and Daytona Beach International Airport (73 miles away).
Port Canaveral Cruise Port Location and Address
The Port Canaveral Cruise Port is along Florida’s east coast in Brevard County. It is roughly halfway between Miami and Jacksonville and about 45 miles east of Orlando.
Being along the Atlantic coast, the port is ideally situated to welcome cruise ships headed out for exciting voyages to destinations like the Bahamas and the Eastern and Western Caribbean and even some transatlantic journeys to European countries.
Not only is the location ideal for hosting cruise ships, but Port Canaveral’s proximity to Orlando means it is close to some of the most exciting theme parks and attractions in the United States.
Plus, the port is just minutes away from the Kennedy Space Center and Cocoa Beach, making it an ideal departure point for any vacation. There are plans to build a new high-speed rail network that will provide cruise passengers with direct transit to and from the port from nearby cities.
Port Canaveral Cruise Port Address:
Port Canaveral Cruise Port, 9500 Discovery Road, Cape Canaveral, FL 32920
Airports Nearest to Port Canaveral Cruise Port
While Florida’s status as one of the busiest tourist destinations in the country means it has a network of over 140 airports, including 20 that provide regular passenger services outside the state, four major airports are within realistic driving distance of Port Canaveral.
Each airport offers its own advantages. We will provide an overview of the airports’ distances from Canaveral Cruise Port, basic driving directions, travel options to and from the airports, pricing, and airlines that have regular service to each airport.
Whether you’re looking for the shortest journey to the port or the most budget-friendly options, here are the details that will help you make the right decision.
Orlando International Airport (MCO)
Not only is Orlando International Airport (MCO) one of the busiest and largest airports in the United States, but it is also one of the closest major airports to Port Canaveral. Serving over 50 million airline passengers annually, Orlando International Airport is the go-to option for cruise passengers hoping to take a domestic or international flight to the port.
The major airlines that operate from the airport include Delta Airlines, American Airlines, Southwest, United Airlines, British Airways, Air Canada, and Emirates.
Distance to Port Canaveral
Located approximately 45 miles away in central Florida, a drive from Orlando International Airport will take approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour. Since the airport is connected to the port via the FL-528 Highway (Beachline Expressway), transportation is pretty direct. Just keep in mind that traffic can be an issue during peak tourist season.
Driving Directions from MCO
- Get on FL-528 E from MCO’s Cargo Road
- Continue for 43 miles, then take the exit for George King Blvd in Cape Canaveral
- Continue on George King Blvd and watch for signs for Port Canaveral
- Turn left onto Discovery Road and arrive at your destination
Travel Options to Port Canaveral
If you arrive at MCO, you have plenty of transportation options that will take you directly to Port Canaveral Cruise Port:
While a one-way taxi ride to the port will usually run you about $120, it is convenient, as there is a dedicated taxi line just outside the arrival terminal at MCO. You don’t need to call a cab; instead, you can simply get in the quick-moving line.
Rideshare services, like Uber and Lyft, are also available. Fares are similar, with most ranging between $80 and $120, but you get the flexibility to easily select a larger vehicle if you are traveling with a group.
Some of the bigger cruise lines, like Carnival Cruise Line and Norwegian Cruise Line, offer complimentary shuttle services from Orlando International Airport for cruises that list Port Canaveral as their embarkation point, but you will have to check with your cruise line ahead of time.
Private shuttle providers, like Go Port and Contrans Shuttle Services, can provide transportation to the port. With rates between $25 and $55 per person, they can be an affordable option for individual travelers.
Just keep in mind that some have multiple pickup and drop-off points at Port Canaveral’s cruise terminals, which can add more time to your journey.
Given Orlando’s popularity as a major tourist destination, plenty of rental providers operate directly at the airport. Some major rental companies, like Enterprise and AVIS, allow you to drop your rented vehicle off at offices near the port, making it easy to drive to the port.
Rates vary between rental agencies and depending on the vehicle size, but you can usually secure a daily rate for as low as $45 per day for a basic compact vehicle.
Melbourne Orlando International Airport (MLB)
Although it is a small regional airport, Melbourne International Airport happens to be the closest airport to the cruise port.
Delta and American Airlines also have regular services to MLB from several major U.S. cities, making it a convenient option for those looking to reduce travel time. Allegiant Air runs a daily direct service from Atlanta, making it the most convenient airport to fly into for those traveling from Georgia.
Major airlines that operate from the port include American Airlines, Delta Airlines, United Airlines, Allegiant Air, Alaska Airlines, and Virgin Atlantic.
Distance to Port Canaveral
Located about 27.5 miles south of the cruise port, you can drive from MLB to Port Canaveral in as little as 30 to 40 minutes.
Driving Directions from MLB
- Exit Air Terminal Pkwy onto FL-508 E
- Continue for 0.5 miles, then take the exit for Florida A1A North to George King Blvd
- After 26 miles, take exit 54B and continue onto Glen Cheek Drive
- Turn left onto Discovery Road and arrive at your destination
Travel Options to Port Canaveral
Given the proximity to Cape Canaveral, there are plenty of transportation options that will take you from MLB to the cruise port.
For smaller groups, taxis and rideshare vehicles are your best bet. With fares between $90 and $100, depending on the time of day and traffic, they offer an affordable, stress-free option for direct transportation to the port.
Several shuttle services connect Melbourne International Airport to the cruise port, including the Cocoa Beach Shuttle, which charges between $30 and $40 per person for a direct drop-off at your exact cruise terminal.
A wide range of private limo services also operate out of the airport, offering visiting cruise passengers private and direct transportation to the cruise port. Just keep in mind that they are more expensive than cabs, so you should expect to pay between $100 and $150.
Budget Car Rental and Enterprise agencies are located directly at the airport. For both, the rental counter is within the arrival terminal itself. The two rental providers also allow customers to drop their vehicles off at the cruise port.
Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB)
Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB) is another regional airport that serves Cape Canaveral and other cities in central Florida. Like Melbourne Orlando International Airport, SFB offers regular services from out of state.
While it is further away from the port than MLB and MCO, Orlando Sanford Airport is regularly visited by numerous low-cost airlines, making it a practical option for those hoping to reduce travel costs.
Major airlines that operate from SFB include Allegiant Airlines, Sun Country Airlines, Interjet, and Miami Air.
Distance to Port Canaveral
Sanford International Airport is roughly 60.8 miles northwest of Port Canaveral Cruise Port, so travel between the two usually takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Driving Directions from SFB
- From the airport, get on the I-95 South and continue for 29.5 miles
- Take the exit for the FL-528 East
- After 30.8 miles, take the exit for George King Blvd
- Drive to Glen Cheek Drive, then take the left for Discovery Road
Travel Options to Port Canaveral
Since it is a smaller airport, direct transportation options to the port are limited, but they are still fairly easy to secure. The following are generally considered to be the best options available at SFB:
Since fewer taxis are available at SFB than at larger international airports, drivers tend to charge higher rates. Expect to pay around $150 for a direct drop-off at your cruise terminal. You also have the option to order an Uber or Lyft but keep in mind that they may reject the fare, so you could be waiting for quite a while.
While shuttle services are available from SFB to the port, they are far less frequent. To make sure a shuttle bus or private van can drive you to the port, you will want to pre-book your travel. The Port Canaveral Quick Shuttle is one of the most popular options, with rates of $40 for a one-way trip to any of the cruise terminals and an $80 rate for a pre-booked round-trip.
Seven different on-site rental companies offer vehicles directly at SFB. The larger providers, like Enterprise and Hertz, both offer the option to drop your vehicle at the cruise port for a nominal fee, which can be a great option for those who would prefer to drive themselves.
Daytona Beach International Airport (DAB)
DAB may be another relatively small regional airport, but it is visited by several major airlines due to Daytona Beach’s popularity with tourists.
Although DAB is the furthest airport from the port out of the four, it is relatively quiet and much less crowded, making for a comfortable experience for visiting passengers. It is also an excellent option for those hoping to explore Daytona Beach or visit the Daytona International Speedway before or after their cruise. It is also a good option for those who want to secure an affordable flight.
Major airlines that fly out of the airport include Delta Airlines, American Airlines, WestJet, and Avelo Airlines.
Distance to Port Canaveral
Located 73 miles north of the cruise port, it usually takes most cruise passengers about an hour and a half to travel between DAB and Port Canaveral Cruise Port.
Driving Directions from DAB
- Exit Airport Drive and merge onto Catalina Drive towards the I-95 South
- Take the I-95 South for 67 miles, then merge onto the FL-528 East
- Continue along the FL-528 E until you reach George King Blvd
- After 0.5 miles, exit onto Glen Cheek Drive
- Turn left onto Discovery Road and continue to your terminal
Travel Options to Port Canaveral
Transportation options are limited, but it is still reasonably easy to secure direct travel to the port from DAB.
Given the distance between Daytona Beach and Cape Canaveral, taxi rates can be quite expensive. Expect to pay between $150 and $170 for a cab. Uber and Lyft can be more affordable if you arrive during the off-season, but you should still anticipate paying over $100.
Regular shuttle services tend to be reserved for transportation from Daytona Beach to the major theme parks, but you can still book ahead of time to secure travel to the cruise port. Several options are available, but it is highly recommended that you book well in advance.
Contact information for DoShuttle, Tropical Transportation, and Groome Transportation can be found on the Daytona Beach International Airport transportation page. Expect to pay between $50 and $75 per person.
Alamo, AVIS, Hertz, and National Car Rental all operate directly inside the main terminal on the airport’s first floor. Rates vary between $50 and $80 per day, depending on the time of year and vehicle, but most will allow you to drop your vehicle off at the cruise port.
Which Is the Best Airport Near Port Canaveral?
Now that you know how to get to Port Canaveral Cruise Port from the four closest international airports, it is time to decide which is the best option to fly into for your specific cruise vacation.
Worth Reading: Port Canaveral Cruise Parking – What You Need to Know
To help you decide, here is a breakdown of the advantages and disadvantages of each, as well as a quick rundown of flight availability and pricing:
Orlando International Airport (MCO)
For most travelers, MCO is the best option. Not only is it just 45 miles away from the port, but Orlando International Airport handles over 850 flights per day. These daily flights include regular service to over 130 domestic and international destinations, so securing a direct flight to MCO from your closest airport is incredibly easy.
As we covered, transportation between this major airport and the cruise port is also affordable and easy to find, and in some cases, cruise lines will run complimentary shuttle services between the two.
Pros:
- Largest selection of flights to and from the widest variety of destinations
- Easy access to affordable shuttles and taxis
- Serves the highest number of airlines
- Incredible range of airport amenities, including dining, shopping, and hotels
- Close to Universal Studios, Walt Disney World, and more
Cons:
- Can be crowded, especially during Orlando’s peak tourism season (March to August)
Best For:
MCO is the best for both international and domestic travelers looking for a direct flight from a distant city. If you are flying from out of state or another country, you should be able to secure a flight to MCO that matches your travel dates and budget.
Melbourne Orlando Airport (MLB)
Melbourne’s airport might be much smaller than MCO, but it is also just 27 miles away from the port. It also offers a far more relaxed atmosphere than Florida’s larger airports. Despite its relatively small size, MLB also serves some of the nation’s largest airlines, including American Airlines and Delta, which both offer direct flights to MLB from major travel hubs like Atlanta and Charlotte.
With affordable flights and budget-friendly transportation available to the port, it is a good option for those looking to cut travel costs.
Pros:
- Close proximity to the cruise port
- Much less crowded than larger airports
- Serves major airlines that fly direct from other regional travel hubs
Cons:
- Limited options for cross-country and international flights
- Fairly limited airport amenities
Best For:
It is a great way to cut your vacation costs if you can secure a flight to MLB from your point of origin. Although the airport mostly serves those flying from southeastern cities, it is still a practical option for those traveling to Port Canaveral.
Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB)
SFB is probably the best budget-friendly airport to fly into. Mostly serving connecting flights from out of state and direct flights from other cities in Florida, the airport has plenty of low-cost flights and airlines arriving at it each day.
Pros:
- Numerous low-cost airlines and flights arrive daily
- Just over 60 miles from the cruise port
Cons:
- Serves very few airlines
- Finding direct shuttles to the port can be difficult
- Somewhat far from major tourist attractions
Best For:
If you are traveling on a budget, looking into a flight that arrives at SFB could be a good option. Several low-cost airlines offer flights to SFB daily, which can help you cut down on airfare before and after your cruise.
Daytona Beach International Airport (DAB)
Although it is the furthest airport from the port, DAB serves some major airlines and is great for those looking to enjoy a quiet travel experience. Adding a few days in Daytona Beach can be a way to extend your cruise without dealing with the high hotel costs and enormous crowds of Orlando.
Pros:
- Quiet airport with decent amenities
- Ideal for regional travelers or those with connecting flights on American Airlines or Delta
- Option to explore Daytona Beach before boarding
Cons:
- Limited direct flights from other states
- Direct International flights and international connecting flights are limited
- Far from the cruise port with expensive travel options
Best For:
If you want a quiet, stress-free airport experience and an airport near you offers flights to DAB, it can be a great option.
Can I Drive to Port Canaveral Instead?
Yes, many budget-conscious travelers will choose to drive to Port Canaveral rather than fly there. The port is closely connected to major highways, like I-95 and FL-528, making it relatively easy to drive to from out-of-state and other parts of Florida.
Read Also: Florida Cruise Ports – Your Full Overview and Guide
With so many attractions in Florida, it is no wonder that taking a road trip to the Sunshine State is such a common family vacation. Not only can you drive your own vehicle to the port to save money, but having your own mode of transportation will allow you to explore other Florida attractions before and after your cruise easily.
Parking at the Cruise Port
Overnight passenger parking is also available directly at the cruise port, with an official lot outside each port’s terminals. The parking rate at the official lots is $17 per day, with an additional $10 surcharge for oversized vehicles and RVs.
If you cannot secure parking at one of the official lots, you can also park your vehicle at a nearby private lot called Park N Cruise Port Canaveral. This lot costs $10.95 per day and offers a complimentary shuttle service to your terminal.
