Getting There

Transportation Options to Port Canaveral

One of the qualities which makes Port Canaveral such an attractive cruise destination is the vast array of transportation options available. It sits just east of Interstate 95, the main north-south highway on the east coast, it's less than an hour from the Orlando International Airport, via car, motorcoach or van, and there's another different and exciting option, the Car-Train from Virginia which ends in Sanford, Florida, about 45 minutes from Port Canaveral.

This is a sign that all motorists heading for Port Canaveral on I-95 really look forward to seeing. As you can see, it's Exit 205. That means 205 miles north of Miami and if you're heading south you've driven 177 miles from the Florida/Georgia border. A good rule of thumb, is that from the Florida border, at average highway speed and a little construction, you'll arrive in Port Canaveral in about three hours. FL528 East is not a toll road and it's a very straight shot into the cruise terminal area. As you cross the second high bridge over the Banana River you'll catch the first glimpse of your cruise ship.

That's a very exciting moment, but try to pay attention to the signs that will direct you to your terminal. Most ships depart from Terminal A or B and the signs to those terminals are electronic and will announce which ship is departing on the day you arrive.

For complete driving directions from just about anywhere in North America visit our friends at www.mapquest.com.

Commercial Airlines

The nearest and most accessible airport, and principal gateway to Port  Canaveral is the Orlando International Airport (MCO). With more than 48 scheduled carriers arriving and departing, you can reach Orlando from just about any place on earth.

There are several options when it comes to getting from the airport to the cruise terminal. Most significantly, all cruise lines provide some kind of airport transfers with your cruise tickets. Getting on the right motorcoach is as simple as paying attention. There is generally a representative from the cruise line or ground transportation company waiting for your arrival, they'll be easily recognized by uniform or sign they'll be holding. Just follow their directions. You'll need to collect your luggage and turn it over to the ground transportation company.

If you need to make your own arrangements, there are a number of reputable and experienced companies available to get you to the port on time. Mears has been moving travelers around the Orlando area for years, they're the primary transportation company for Walt Disney World, and they're also available for trips to and from Port Canaveral. At this writing they charge $25 each way for transferring adults or children to the ships. Mears is located on the lower level near baggage claim.

Also please support our advertisers on the upper right side of this page, there are usually some ground transportation companies listed there.

For more details on the Orlando International Airport visit their website at: http://www.orlandoairports.net

The Auto Train

Just bring your car aboard!  Amtrak Auto Train takes you and your car, van, motorcycle, or SUV nonstop from Lorton, Virginia — just south of Washington, DC — to the fun and sunshine of Florida. On board you can spend time together as a family, free from the stress of I-95. Sit back and relax in your roomy coach seat or private sleeper. Put your feet up. Read a book. Let the scenery entertain you.

For more details visit Amtrak's website: http://www.amtrak.com/trains/autotrain.html