cruise ship in port canaveral

How to See the Cruise Ships in Port Canaveral Today

How to See the Cruise Ships in Port Canaveral Today Whether you’re checking up on a loved one’s cruise ship or you’re just a cruise enthusiast, there are plenty of reasons (and ways!) to look up which cruises are in Port Canaveral, Florida today. From free webcams to online port itineraries, we’re going to take you through a few of our favorite ways to see what major cruise lines are visiting our shores! Port Canaveral, Florida, based in Cape Canaveral, is the world’s second-largest cruise port, offering sailings to the Bahamas, Caribbean, Cozumel, and beyond. Visitors can see ships and sail on cruises offered by Carnival Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean International, Disney Cruise Line, Norwegian Cruise Lines, and MSC Cruises. Online Ship Tracking If you spend your days on the water, work at a port, or like getting tons of information and data on local ships, then you’re probably familiar with online ship tracking through the internet or an app. You can visit MarineTraffic, a site designed for ship tracking, to get info on all kinds of vessels in ports across the world, displaying live data about current vessels in port, expected arrivals and departures, and more. You can also look at ports beyond Port Canaveral. Across the USA, and even the world, vessel info is available under the local time and date. In addition, sites list content about the ports themselves and the current weather conditions. Use ship tracking if you’re looking for a lot of day-to-day detail! Canaveral’s Webcam Website The Port Canaveral Webcam located at Fishlips is one of the most popular ways to check in on Port Canaveral, Florida, and see what cruises have arrived. This site, operated by PTZtv, live streams a video of the cruise port all the time! They also have webcams at several other ports across the United States. You won’t be able to see every cruise ship or cruise line in Canaveral, but you’ll be able to watch the docked Royal Caribbean cruise ship as well as enjoy a lovely view of the cruises setting sail. (Plus, it’s an awesome way to check on the Cocoa Beach weather to see if today is a good beach opportunity!) Are you a local? Then don’t bother with a webcam! Pop on out to the waterfront yourself and relax in the sunshine. You can watch a Carnival cruise head out to sea while grabbing a bite at a restaurant or climbing the Exploration Tower! Official Arrival and Departure Dates You can find the official itinerary for all the arrival and departure dates for every cruise line (and visiting ships). Where? Right on the Canaveral Port Authority’s site!  Currently, they are only releasing select months at once, but you can still check out when your favorite cruise ship will be around town by looking at the official calendar for the year. Cruising This Year? Taking a cruise this year? Booking your Port Canaveral parking is the first step to saving while you sail. Begin your cruise the best way by starting your vacation at Port Canaveral Parking, the number one off-site cruise parking lot in the area (if not the state!). We offer the perfect shuttle and parking options for families, friends, and couples cruising this season. Contact us today or go ahead and book online so you won’t miss out on great rates, outstanding customer service, and a 5-star cruise experience!

Your Guide to Cruises Out of Port Canaveral: 2022

Your Guide to Cruises Out of Port Canaveral: 2022 Let’s be honest: Port Canaveral cruises are awesome. We have some of the most popular cruise lines and top cruise destinations in North America. It’s no surprise that the Port of Orlando is the number one cruise port around! But while we talk about the beautiful beaches you can visit and what you can do before you sail (like Kennedy Space Center, the Exploration Tower, and Universal Studios), we haven’t spent much time on the cruises leaving from Port Canaveral this year. With so many options to choose from, we figured it was time for a guide to each cruise line that calls Port Canaveral home! Not sure which cruise line is the right one for you? Our cruise experts have outlined the perks of each cruise line sailing from Port Canaveral Florida in 2022. Cruise Lines Sailing from Orlando & Port Canaveral, Florida in 2022 Disney Cruise Line Royal Caribbean International Norwegian Cruise Line Carnival Cruise Line MSC Cruises Disney Cruise Lines Disney is one of the highest ranked cruise lines at Port Canaveral. In fact, the Fantasy and Dream are in the top five cruises from Port Canaveral. These cruises are perfect for families with kids of all ages, with entertainment and areas for family-focused fun. You don’t have to be a kid to cruise Disney. There are plenty of adult-only areas, and anyone who loves Disney theme parks can find loads to enjoy. Disney is known for it’s meet-and-greets, top-rated dining options, and incredible cabin arrangements. However, if you don’t love Mickey, you might want to set sail with another ship. Disney cruises aren’t for a budget traveler either, with fees, food, cabin arrangements, and attractions all coming at a premium for families. Royal Caribbean International Royal Caribbean cruise line is all about being big. And their big ships are designed to accommodate a wide range of guests. Royal Caribbean cruises from Port Canaveral are great for families with older kids and college students, groups of friends, and even solo vacationers. Every megaresort-style ship in the Royal Caribbean cruise fleet offers a huge variety for entertainment and activities so that you’re never at a loss for what to do. When you’re sailing with RCI, more is better. Looking for a cabin with lots of luxury? Royal’s ships are known for their incredible designs and layouts, from their balcony cabin to their suites. If you want fresh and luxurious rooms, RCI has cabin options you won’t be able to pass up. However, the large-scale theme of these ships isn’t for everyone. If you’re not looking to recreate a theme parks-level of scale on your way to the Bahamas, then you might want to consider a different ship. Plus, things can feel crowded. More rooms means way more passengers on sailings. Norwegian Cruise Line Looking for Las Vegas on the high seas? Norwegian Cruise Line is the Florida cruise line for you. A vacation with NCL offers a casual vibe paired with incredible attractions and late-night activities, from casinos to Broadway shows. Get upscale excitement without strict meal times or dress codes (all at a great price). Just like RCI, Norwegian offers stunning big-ship vacations to the Bahamas when you cruise from Port Canaveral. As a megaresort cruise line, you can expect to see go-karts, gaming stations, comedy shows, waterslides, and more onboard as you travel the seas of the Caribbean. Good news: you’ll never get bored with NCL. And with off-season promotions and short trip discounts, these can be the best deal when sailing from Port Canaveral, FL. However, if you’re not into huge ships then you might want to reconsider an NCL reservation. Carnival Cruise Line Carnival is one of the most popular cruise lines around, whether you’re taking a cruise from Port Canaveral or not. One in five cruisers chooses Carnival when looking for an amazing time at sea, and it’s no wonder why. Most people would describe Carnival as the king of affordable fun. With short cruises that are packed with awesome activities across the Caribbean seas and Bahamas, there is something for every traveler onboard. They offer a flashy, lively adventure at a price that can’t be beat. Don’t worry about missing out while watching your budget. Carnival’s ships are just as big and beautiful as their competitors, with great food and comforts. Just don’t expect anything fancy while you explore the Bahamas and swim in the crystal clear waters of Cozumel. Carnival may not be your scene if you’re looking for a long cruise, fancy food options, and other expensive accommodations. Carnival is definitely affordable and a great option for first-timers. However, keep in mind that discounts come with downgrades when you sail. MSC Cruises MSC Cruise Lines has come to Port Canaveral, Florida, bringing the magic of European-style cruises to Orlando and Cocoa Beach. These new ships bring a glamorous atmosphere to Florida cruising, catering to those looking for a stylish getaway packed with fine dining, lounges, spas, and fancy artwork. In particular, 2022 offers a guarantee for low prices through MSC as they try to draw vacationers to their new cruises from Port Canaveral. With incredible price drops, the availability and affordability of MSC is eye catching. There have been a few hiccups as MSC moves from Europe to America. Catering to a wide variety of nationalities has led to some people complaining about long announcements in multiple languages and customer service that can sometimes feel a little awkward to Americans. Park and Cruise from Port Canaveral in 2022 Planning to cruise from Port Canaveral this year? It’s time to reserve your parking spot! You deserve a perfect start to your cruise no matter who you’re sailing with. Discover the difference of amazing service, fast shuttles, and low prices with Port Canaveral Parking. Park and cruise with ease! Contact us today to reserve your cruise parking spot with the number one facility in Port Canaveral!

port parking port canaveral sign

FAQs: Can You Prepay for Parking at Port Canaveral?

FAQs: Can You Prepay For Parking at Port Canaveral? If you’re looking to enjoy a Port Canaveral cruise soon, then you’re also probably checking out your Port Canaveral cruise parking options while you plan! When planning a vacation, the more things that you can book in advance the better. Not only are you guaranteed spots (at restaurants, on tours, etc.), you can also often save money with careful planning. So, you’re probably wondering if your Port Canaveral parking options also include the ability to reserve ahead or if they require same day reservations. And the answer depends on where you’re looking. The Short Answer: You can’t prepay for parking for the Port Canaveral cruise terminals. You can only get parking once you arrive at the cruise terminal entrance. However, you can prepay and reserve your secure parking option ahead of time at many off-site cruise parking lots, like Port Canaveral Parking. If prepaid options are important to you, don’t look for parking at the cruise port! Port Canaveral Cruise Terminal Parking Lots We’re one of the busiest cruise ports in the world. So, it makes sense that the cruise terminals would have spots that you could pay for ahead of time. However, in November of 2017, the Canaveral Port Authority announced that they would be discontinuing prepaid cruisetime parking. And in 2022, that is still the case. Now, cruise passengers must pay via a number of major credit cards at the terminal entrance welcome booth when they arrive to sail. Each of the Port Canaveral terminals is the same way. So whether you’re heading to the B Terminals or A Terminals, you’ll be paying a daily parking fee of $17.00. Some of the biggest cruise ships are now homeporting here, including megaresort ships from MSC cruises, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian cruise line. You might be wondering if Cape Canaveral, with all of these big cruise lines, has the capacity to park all of their guests. Truthfully? No. The biggest parking facility can hold about 1,700 cars. The smallest parking lot holds less than 1,000. Some days, we have to rely on off-site Port Canaveral cruise parking to make sure everyone has a space. And the worst part? That $17.00 per day price tag is subject to change without notice, according to the Port Canaveral cruise ship website. A reservation system for onsite parking would help people know, for certain, their rate. Free Parking at the Cruise Port When you park Port Canaveral, it isn’t all bad. Free cruise parking is available at all cruise lines for disabled passengers and Florida disabled veterans. Port Canaveral waives the fee for vehicles with the following: Special equipment for use by a disabled person. Florida Toll Exemption Permit. Florida Disabled Veteran (DV) license plate. Getting Prepaid Parking & Covered Parking For those who like to plan ahead for their cruise vacation – don’t worry. There is a cruise parking option that lets you pay in advance, locking in great parking deals without even going to the cruise terminal. Off-site parking almost always gives you the option to pay in advance. Choosing the Best Parking At Port Canaveral Parking, we offer offsite parking that is easy, secure, and close to the cruise port. And our prices are way lower than the terminal. With a free shuttle service to every cruise line: Disney cruise line, RCI, Norwegian, Carnival, and MSC. You can enjoy a short shuttle ride and arrive right at the ship with all of your luggage. We also start and end your vacation with excellent service and super easy parking. And of course, our shuttle buses will be waiting outside the ship to bring you back to the parking lot after you disembark. By letting you reserve ahead of time, you are guaranteed a parking spot even on the busiest days. You can also plan ahead and lock in low rates and special deals. Our parking packages even include covered parking as an option, so you won’t miss out if you prefer covered spaces. READY TO RESERVE? All ready to set sail but have no place to park? Don’t worry – we’ve got the perfect parking spot for you! Use our easy, online booking to reserve your off-site cruise parking spot today at Port Canaveral Parking! Get on-site service at off-site prices, with better rates and service than you’ve ever seen. The best vacations start here – with a company that treats you like family!

Guide to Port Canaveral Cruise Terminal Parking

The Traveler’s Guide to Port Canaveral Cruise terminal parking Port Canaveral is a popular spot. Cape Canaveral is home to the Kennedy Space Center and beautiful beaches, and it takes second place in the list of busiest cruise ports.  Did you know? After the Port of Miami, we see more cruise passengers than anywhere else in the whole world (over 4 million every year)! But being one of the busiest ports also means that we need some place to put all of those traveling cars throughout the year.  That’s where our local Port Canaveral cruise parking facilities come in. At Port Canaveral Parking, we offer the best in off-site parking for parties hoping to save while they sail. With secure parking and complimentary shuttles for your cruise vacation, it’s easy to save money while getting the best off-site cruise parking. But what about on-site options? Today we’re going to be going over the pros and cons of parking at the cruise ship terminal in our guide to on-site parking at Port Canaveral. Navigating Port Canaveral Cruise Terminals Our six cruise terminals are 1, 3, 5, 6, 8, and 10. Cruise Terminal A is home to terminals 5, 6, 8, and 10, while 1 and 3 are located in Cruise Terminal B. The split can be a little confusing for travelers, especially if you can’t remember where the cruise lines are docking at. Cruise Terminal B is where you can also go for a bite to eat, to see the port at the Exploration Tower, or check out CT-3, our brand-new multi-million dollar spot for the largest ships. Terminal A is less exciting, but it hosts more ships as well as the cargo piers. Official Port Canaveral Parking Every cruise terminal has it’s own official parking facility (although some terminals share parking spots). The port runs these locations, which include covered garage parking as well as uncovered parking lots located near the terminal entrance. The parking spots are first-come, first-served, meaning there’s no reservations and no pre-pay. You can also splurge and pay a little extra for “preferred parking”, which some terminals offer for those who want to park even closer to the ship. While convenient, we do have some bad news: it’s $17.00 per day for the basic parking at the port. That means that for a four-night cruise, you’ll be paying $85 in parking fees alone. Here’s a short breakdown of the pros and cons of on-site port parking. Pros of parking at the ship Spots are right at the ship. It’s true, you wouldn’t be able to park closer to the ship unless they let you bring your car on the boat. Many say it’s more convenient. When you embark and disembark, you never have to worry about getting to your car. It’s pretty easy. Unlike other parking facilities, you only get one option. You won’t have to choose between locations. At the port, you get what you get. The port terminals offer free cruise parking for vehicles that need parking options for disabled passengers with special equipment, for those with a Florida Toll Exemption Permit, and for those who have a Florida Disabled Veteran license plate. However, this is the only free parking option from the Canaveral Port Authority.  Cons of Parking at the Cruise Port Being next to the cruise ships is great – but the covered parking lot is not just a short walk from the ship. There’s no free shuttle service, so you’ll be toting your stuff from the luggage drop-off on debarkation day. There are no reservations. If the cruise parking lots are full for your cruise line, you’ll have to find other arrangements. Prices are subject to change, according to the website for the Port Canaveral terminals. While the base price is $17 per day, you may end up paying even more for your cruise parking. Traffic can be terrible, congested, and complicated for visitors. If you’re driving yourself, be prepared for wrong turns and sitting in Port Canaveral traffic. Alternate Port Canaveral Parking options When it comes to finding places to park, Port Canaveral has other parking deals for your cruise adventure. We always recommend that parties park off-site. Not only do you get access to free shuttles that drop you off right at the cruise port, many places (like Port Canaveral Parking) offer security and top-notch customer service that doesn’t come with a sky-high price tag. All of our cruise packages for parking involve no transportation fees (your shuttle ride is complimentary!) and parking rates that are nearly half of the terminal parking. We go to all Port Canaveral cruise lines, including Disney, Royal Caribbean International, MSC Cruises, Norwegian, and Carnival. Make same-day reservations or plan months ahead to guarantee your Port Canaveral parking spot! Port Canaveral Hotel Cruise PArking If you’re staying in Cocoa Beach, there are some locations that offer Port Canaveral cruise parking. The Holiday Inn Express, Country Inn, Radisson Resort, and other hotels will let you leave your vehicle during your vacation. However, these packages are often much more expensive than leaving your car at a cruisetime parking facility. If you’re cruising on a budget or want to save up for some souvenirs, hotel parking is NOT the way to go.

orlando international airport mco at sunset

Flying In? Find an Airport Near Port Canaveral

Flying in for your cruise:Every Airport near Port Canaveral If you don’t live in Florida, you can either take a very long road trip to get to your Port Canaveral cruise, or you can hop on a plane to start your vacation. Catching a flight to your cruise can be a big time-saver for families and friends, so it’s no wonder that some people choose to fly instead of drive. As the local cruising experts of Port Canaveral, we know a thing or two about flying into the area. That’s why this month we want to share a little bit about every airport near Port Canaveral, designed to help out travelers who aren’t as familiar with the area. Let’s take a look at the three biggest airports nearby, the perks of each, and which one could be the best for your next trip to Port Canaveral. Driving to your cruise? Whether you’re renting a car or driving from home, you can get great deals and even better service with off-site Port Canaveral cruise parking with us! Only ten minutes from the cruise terminals, we have free air-conditioned shuttles, low prices, and close parking for anyone looking for off-site parking that can’t be beat. orlando international airport (MCO) Orlando International Airport (MCO) is the go-to choice for many flying in and out of Orlando. And it’s pretty easy to see why. Not only is it the airport with the most flights, airline options, and destinations, but Orlando International Airport also has some of the best airport amenities. There are a ton of dining and retail options available throughout the airport. If you’re cruising out of Port Canaveral, you can expect the drive to take approximately 45 minutes on the highway directly from MCO. It’s the shortest drive out of any of the airports. We recommend Orlando International for any groups who want to sightsee in Orlando or spend time at Disney World or Universal Studios Location: Orlando, FL Distance from Cruises: 45 miles Travel Time: 40-45 minutes Annual Passengers: Over 50 million Pros: Sightseeing opportunities, close to major local attractions, easiest trip, access to a variety of airlines and destinations Cons: Can be busy and crowded, potentially expensive flights, long lines at baggage and security Major Airlines: Southwest Airlines, JetBlue, Spirit Airlines, Silver Airways, and more Destinations: 135 Domestic & International MCO is one of the most popular destinations for Florida flights. Sanford International airport (SFB) Sanford International Airport (SFB) is further from the port and major Orlando attractions, but it is still a popular airport for those visiting central Florida. For cruise passengers, SFB airport is a tempting choice due to its cheap flights. Though it serves fewer cities across the country, it still caters to over 3 million passengers every year, and they also have international flights. However, watch out for transportation costs. A rental car costs the same as it would at Orlando, but one-way or round-trip taxis and shuttles will be significantly more due to the distance from the cruise ships. Photo Courtesy of FlySFB.com Location: Sanford, FL Distance from Cruises: 59 miles Travel Time: 60-65 minutes Annual Passengers: Over 3 million Pros: Great rates for flights, fewer crowds, nice accommodations and amenities Cons: Far from Orlando attractions, furthest from the cruise terminals, expensive transportation costs Major Airlines: Allegiant Airlines, Flair Airlines, Surinam Airways, and Swoop Destinations: Over 80 Domestic & International Melbourne Orlando International Airport (MLB) Despite being the closest to Port Canaveral’s cruise terminals, Melbourne Orlando International Airport (MLB) is a slightly longer travel time than Orlando MCO. However, those traveling from MLB will appreciate the beautiful coastal views along the scenic route to their ship. In addition, Melbourne’s airport is the smallest of the three options, meaning that it is definitely faster and less crowded than MCO or SFB. If you have a little extra time and want to save a bit of money and hassle, Melbourne International might be the way to go for local travelers! Location: Melbourne, FL Distance from Cruises: 27 miles Travel Time: 45-50 minutes Annual Passengers: Over 400,000 Pros: Good for charter flights, beautiful coastal route to Port Canaveral, least busy airport Cons: Fewer destinations, more local traffic, limited airline options for passengers Major Airlines: Allegiant Airlines, American Airlines, Elite Airways, Delta, and TUI Destinations: Over 15 Domestic & International

parking lot with cars in spaces

Why Your Next Cruise Should Start with Off-Site Port Parking | Port Canaveral

Why Your Next Cruise Should Start withOff-Site Port Parking: Port Canaveral Port Canaveral is one of the busiest cruise ports, (we rank 2nd in the world!) and we’re still growing. After recently adding MSC to our homeported fleet, we host five famous cruise lines as they sail to and from the Caribbean. Our destination options and state-of-the-art facilities draw millions of cruisers all year long. With holiday cruising around the corner (and thousands of visitors every week), we thought it was time to make our very own guide to port parking, Port Canaveral, and how off-site parking can save you time and money on your next trip. Whether you’re new to our beautiful port or you’re an old pro, this blog is bound to help you make the most of your next cruise from Port Canaveral! Setting sail from Port Canaveral soon? Book your Port Canaveral cruise parking and take advantage of our great rates, close parking, and easy transportation! Our 5-star Port Canaveral parking and free shuttle service goes to every single cruise line, and it’s only ten minutes from the cruise terminals. Parking at the Port Canaveral Cruise Terminals The on-site Port Canaveral cruise parking facility is located right next to the ship. Many vacationers choose to use the cruise parking that is directly at the cruise ships because of the convenience and the location. While Cape Canaveral parking is supposed to be easier, it is also very expensive. Cruise terminal parking rates start at $17/day, including your day of arrival and departure. (Note: While this is the rate posted on the Port Canaveral website, they also note that they can raise or lower the price of parking without notice.) There are also a select number of “preferred” parking spots available to passengers at cruise parking lots at certain Port Canaveral terminals. These spots are located directly next to the ships – and are offered at a premium! The Port Canaveral cruise terminal parking lot certainly has its downsides, however. There is no free shuttle service to help with luggage or getting to the terminal. If you have a lot of luggage, you’ll have to stop by the cruise ship to unload before grabbing your spot. Port cruise parking is also first-come, first-served. This means that if you want a covered spot or a close spot, arriving early is the key. If you’re unlucky, you’ll have to park far away from the terminal entrance – which means a long walk! The Problem with the Busiest Cruise Port: Parking Port Canaveral has discovered an issue as the destinations get more impressive, more visitors arrive for week-long cruise vacation trips, and the ships homeporting here get bigger. We’re running out of cruise parking spots. Yep, just like parking garages on big college campuses! Everyone setting sail has to park somewhere and sometimes the only spots available are at a separate location! With tens of thousands of cruise passengers sailing every week, there aren’t enough parking lot spaces to park Port Canaveral cruisers. That’s where we come in. Too many cars that the Cocoa Beach port? We’re here to help! Why Use Off-Site Cruise Parking Remote parking is easy and convenient for a number of reasons: It’s Safer Did you know that parking somewhere besides the terminal can actually be safer? Security is tight at port parking lots, but Port Canaveral is open all the time. The security is stretched thin between the cars, the ships, the grounds, the restaurants, and the shipping terminals. When You Book with Port Canaveral Parking: Our location has fully-fenced, danger-free parking spots with stadium lighting, complete video surveillance, and gates for after-hours. From the time that you check in to the time you leave, your car, van, or truck will be entirely safe. It’s EASIER Let’s be honest – traffic at a big place like Port Canaveral can be a heck of bad time. The nice thing about parking apart from the port is getting to enjoy your ride (and avoid bumper-to-bumper traffic, finding a parking place, and making sure you’re at the right terminal).  When You Ride with Us: Your cruise adventure should get off to an easy, smooth start, and the best way to do that is by popping your luggage on one of our free shuttles and enjoying the best shuttle ride in town. We take you from our covered parking waiting area straight to your ship (and we’ll pick you up when you get back!) It’s only a ten minute ride from Merritt Island, over the bridge from Cape Canaveral, and it will save you time and money. Every shuttle leaves promptly at a designated time, so you won’t have to worry about waiting for our complimentary shuttles. It’s Cheaper Parking at a remote parking lot is MUCH cheaper than parking at the port! You can save over 50% of what you would be spending at the on-site location. There are no better parking deals that what you get with offsite cruise parking, even when you consider transportation fees, adding an additional person, or upcharges for same day reservations (something that you can sometimes see in parking packages). Plus, you can’t even reserve your spot ahead of time! Save Money at Our Facility: We’re not just extremely convenient. Our prices are also out of this world! No matter which cruise line you’re sailing with, we have uncovered and covered parking that can’t be beat. It’s time to save for souvenirs, not spend your last dime on expensive parking (and we know that)! While you’ll never find a place that will offer free cruise parking for your trip, you can get pretty close with Port Canaveral Parking. We also have special deals going on all the time, and a loyalty program for return customers. Planning a Cruise? So, what are you waiting for? When you’re planning where to park, Port Canaveral Parking has the best spots on the block, the friendliest staff, and the greatest rates around. Give us a call or book online – you’ll be glad …

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family at the beach during winter

Get the Most Out of Cruising the Caribbean This Winter

Get the Most Out of Cruising the Caribbean this Winter The Caribbean is the perfect place to enjoy your winter break! Cruises are a great way to experience new cultures, eat delicious food, and take in the natural beauty of the Bahamas. The winter may be the “slow season” for cruising, but that doesn’t mean you can’t take advantage of seasonal savings (and smaller crowds) this winter when planning your dream vacation. However, sailing in winter means putting a few extra items on your vacation prep list. To help you out, we’ve put together our top three tips to for cruising the Caribbean this winter. Setting sail from Port Canaveral? Don’t forget to reserve your Port Canaveral cruise parking ahead of time! While you’re taking advantage of seasonal savings with the cruise lines, get the best rates in town with Port Canaveral Parking. No matter when you’re cruising, we’re always here to bring you top-quality service, great discounts, and security that can’t be beat. Book today to save tomorrow! bring a homeport outfit In the summer, the weather is absolutely gorgeous in Florida. But in winter, our beautiful weather doesn’t quite match the Caribbean. When you’re living it up in the Bahamas, it will be warm and sunny (obviously!), but at both ends of your trip there might be some chilly weather. If you’re setting sail from Port Canaveral, remember that our moderate winter temperatures can still get as low as 50 degrees – meaning you’ll want to pack a warmer outfit for the start and end of your vacation! What to Pack for Your Homeport As professional Floridians, we always have a cold-weather outfit on hand for this time of year. Some items that you might want to include in your homeport suitcase are: Light Jacket or Coat Warm Socks Scarf Long Pants Boots Dress for comfort on day one, and be sure to bring items that you can pair with outfits on your trip. A light jacket might be a lifesaver on a chilly evening in Nassau! Packing for your cruise? Remember your passport! doublecheck your beach weather Before you pack your bags for your long-awaited cruise, make sure that you pop open your favorite Weather app. While the Bahamas are beautiful all year long, northern cold fronts can pop temperatures down into the 70s, especially at night.  This is the perfect time to pack your favorite sweater, pants, and boots in case of a little chill. Did you know? The coldest month of the year in the Bahamas is January – with an average temperature of 72 degrees. If you’re considering fleeing those mid-winter freezes, January in the Bahamas could be the answer! no holiday trips Looking for a relaxing, calm, and laidback winter vacation? Then we’ve got one big tip for you – don’t cruise during Christmas, Thanksgiving, or New Years.  The Caribbean is one of the most popular places to celebrate Christmas, which means you should expect higher prices for your cabin and more people on board. Big family trips are super popular when kids are out of school, and plenty of folks take advantage of celebrating during the two weeks that their little ones are out of school.  But don’t worry – there are plenty of other weeks of winter where you won’t have to worry about crowds. A great part of cruising during the off-season is the deals and discounts that cruise lines offer to entice people back to the boat. If you don’t mind taking a light jacket to paradise, then this is the perfect time for you to set sail! Planning a Cruise? Cruising in the winter can be a real treat, especially if you do it right.  There’s nothing better than cruising the Caribbean – and yes, you can do it all year long! With the right jacket, a little planning, and some quick tips, you can be a Caribbean cruise expert (even in winter). Celebrate the holidays, get away from the northern cold fronts, or just take advantage of the seasonal discounts this year by sailing from Port Canaveral this winter!

Cruising for the First Time? These 5 Tips are a Must!

5 Tips for your first cruise: get ready to sail! The best part about cruising is that you get to relax in style, without having to lift a finger. With all the hard work done for you, it’s easy to find yourself getting into vacation mode before even leaving home. But what if you haven’t sailed before? Your first cruise should be unforgettable, and we want to help make sure that you love every minute of it. To get ready for your voyage, take a look at these five tips that will help you sail smoothly from start to finish. From saving money to boarding faster, we cover a little bit of everything to help you feel like an old pro when you take your first Port Canaveral cruise! Setting sail soon? We have a ton of great tips and tricks for making the most out of your vacation, including ship guides and parking secrets. Check out our other blogs for more awesome Port Canaveral cruise articles! the best things to know for your first cruise When you’re setting sail for the first time from Port Canaveral (or any other cruise port), it’s good to know a few things before you set out on your adventure. Cruises are tons of fun, but you can have some not-so-fun times if you don’t do a little bit of reading beforehand. The right tip can save you hundreds of dollars or make sure that you have everything you need to keep from getting stranded at port (yes, that’s a real thing).  Take a look at these five tips we’ve put together from the experts! Do You Have All Your Boarding Documents? Make sure you have all your documents together before departing for the cruise terminal. Depending on the cruise line and destination, you’ll need to bring certain documents with you to board. Every cruise, someone won’t be able to board because they didn’t bring a birth certificate, passport, or visa. Make sure that you have every piece of paperwork you need to sail! Check out the list of travel documents from each of Port Canaveral’s cruise lines: Carnival Cruise Line Disney Cruise Line Norwegian Cruise Line Royal Caribbean International MSC Cruises Make sure you bring your passport and other travel documents! Take Advantage of the “Bring Your Own Beverage” Policies While you’ll have access to drink packages, onboard restaurants, and shoreside bars, you can also save during your cruise when it comes to non-alcoholic drinks. Passengers can bring their own beverages onto their cruise to save money. Different cruise lines have different “Bring Your Own Beverages” policies, but the guidelines are typically the same. Cruisers can bring a pack of sodas, sparkling water, energy drinks, milk, and other non-alcoholic drinks as long as they are in cans or cartons (no glass or plastic bottles!). Typically, cruise lines require that beverages be included in carry-on luggage, and guests who are of drinking age can bring an unopened bottle of wine onboard. If you want to bring beer or liquor with you, you’re out of luck – those drinks have to be purchased after boarding for most cruises! Bonus Tip: Watch Out for Prohibited Items -Before you get to the cruise terminal, make sure that nothing illegal is in your luggage. This includes weapons (like knives and firearms), drugs, candles, hot plates, and perishable foods. You can check with your cruise line ahead of time about what exactly they don’t allow onboard their ships so you’re well prepared before getting there! board later to board faster If you’re not in a hurry to get onto the ship, we suggest boarding later to avoid the crowds and the big lines. Because most people are rushing to get onto the ship as early as possible, the rush dies down during later boarding times. An afternoon boarding time can actually save you the hassle and stress of a busy embarkation! Take Advantage of different cruise lengths Did you know that long and short cruise lengths have distinct atmospheres? Cruise lines offer different styles of on-board activities, but different lengths also bring something new to guests! If you’re interested in a cruise that has plenty of younger crowds and high-energy moments, then a short cruise is better for you. Why? Less expensive, short cruises attract a rowdier crowd (especially during vacation months). For those looking for a laidback, relaxed experience, you’re looking to spend a week or longer on a NCL or Royal Caribbean ship.  SPend Less with Off-site cruise parking If you don’t already know, you’ll find out when you get to your cruise parking garage: On-site parking is expensive. While parking at the port can be convenient (sometimes), it’s never affordable. At Port Canaveral, parking directly at the cruise ship terminal means paying at least $17 per day. So, what’s the alternative? Save those extra dollars for souvenirs and park at an off-site cruise parking lot like Port Canaveral Parking. Not only is off-site parking easier (no more port traffic!), it is nearly half the price and offers a more personal experience with friendly staff and easy drop-off. Plus, it’s even more secure!  Planning a Cruise? We hope that these five tips will make your first cruise a breeze, with easy sailing and easier savings. From parking to boarding to beverages, we’ve covered a little bit of everything in this blog. Stay tuned for more great tips from Port Canaveral’s cruising experts – or check out our other blogs to read more cruise news and guides right now!

carnival mardi gras in port canaveral fl

Cruise Ship Spotlight on Carnival’s Mardi Gras

Cruise Ship Spotlight: Carnival Mardi Gras The maiden voyage of Carnival’s Excel-class Mardi Gras was a big way to step back into cruising after the pandemic, and so far the reviews are stellar. From it’s rollercoaster-ringed top to the limitless food options, Mardi Gras is just the thing we need after being cooped up inside through 2020! Need something to look forward to this fall? Don’t worry. The Mardi Gras is making waves in Port Canaveral with Zones, environmentally-friendly LNG power, and resort-style stateroom.  Join us as we cover the magic of the Mardi Gras in our Cruise Ship Spotlight! Or, if you’re already sold on this awesome cruise vacation, go ahead and check out the current cruise destinations. (And don’t forget your Port Canaveral parking!) Getting to Know the Mardi Gras Everything about the Mardi Gras says “BIG fun“. In fact, to accommodate the Mardi Gras‘s 19 decks, 6,500 passengers, and 181,000 tons, Port Canaveral totally revamped Cruise Terminal 3 in 2018. Now, we’re proud to be the homeport for this awesome ship! The Mardi Gras has been making waves in cruising. Not only is it the largest ship in Carnival’s fleet, but it is also the first cruise ship in North America that is fueled by Liquified Natural Gas (LNG)! Though the Mardi Gras was supposed to debut in 2020, it’s first sailing in 2021 marked Carnival’s return to cruising at Port Canaveral after COVID. But what exactly can passengers expect from their Caribbean cruises on the Mardi Gras? Let’s take a peek! Enjoy a Celebration at Sea with Zones With the Mardi Gras, Carnival has introduced a brand-new way to enjoy their ships. Now there are six different Zones to explore – each with it’s own theme, food, and fun-filled adventures!  Grand Central boasts an incredible atrium with an ocean view – alongside shows, bars, and great food! Keep the New Orleans-style show going with the French Quarter, where hot jazz, cool bars, and voodoo vibes go hand-in-hand. If soft serve, BBQ, and poolside lounging is more your style, then Summer Landing is your spot! Discover the music and magic of Italy with pizza, espresso, and paninis in La Piazza! Lido is a fan-favorite for Carnival cruisers – and it’s no surprise! Time to kick back with your favorite food selections, poolside. The Ultimate Playground certainly lives up to its name, with the first rollercoaster at sea, a ropes course, mini golf, and three water slides! Every Zone has dining, drinking, and endless fun. Carnival has brought back some long-standing favorites as well as several brand-new experiences. Try it all on your next cruise! Taking Staterooms to Another Level At launch, Carnival hyped the Mardi Gras’s staterooms and suites – and now we totally see why. Turns out, luxury comes in all shapes, sizes, and décor. The launch of the Mardi Gras marked the introduction of better comfort, storage, and lighting in their rooms. Snooze with Exclusive Benefits – step it up a notch when you reserve your resort-style stay on the Mardi Gras. The Havana, Cloud 9 Spa, and Family Harbor staterooms and suites offer exclusive amenities, unique designs, and quick access to amazing discounts and locations like the (Havana Pool & Bar). Interior Staterooms – Love the affordability that inside cabins bring? The Interior Staterooms don’t cut corners on comfort, even while saving you money! Ocean View & Balcony Staterooms – Get a little more space and a way better view with these rooms. You’ll love the breathing room after a big day of fun in the sun. Suites – Ready to feel like a VIP? Then you’ll definitely want a suite on the Mardi Gras. Not only are these rooms the best on board, they also come packed with perks. Oh, the Places You’ll Cruise When you cruise from Port Canaveral, you know that you’re going to be soaking up sunshine in the Caribbean. And the Mardi Gras offers all of the best places to go. Currently on the schedule are 6-day, 7-day, and 8-day cruises to the Eastern, Western, and Southern Caribbean. You can plan to enjoy the beautiful island beaches and serene sights at Nassau, San Juan, Grand Turk, Amber Cove, Cozumel, Aruba, and even more popular locales! Is the Mardi Gras travelling to your favorite Caribbean destinations?  Cruise with Carnival at Port Canaveral Getting back to cruising? Then it’s time to check the Mardi Gras off your bucket list.  Whether you’re a Carnival Cruise Line aficionado or taking your first cruise, the Mardi Gras has something for everyone – and we’re not even counting the off-ship excursions. Cruising is one of the most fun, relaxing, and enjoyable ways to vacation, and the latest addition to the Carnival fleet really shows us why. Bring fabulous food, fantastic entertainment, and around-the-clock fun to your next cruise trip with the Mardi Gras! CRUISING soon? While you’re scoping out your next cruise vacation, don’t forget to plan ahead and reserve your Port Canaveral cruise parking! Whether you’re sailing on the Mardi Gras or another fantastic cruise ship, parking is the last thing you want to worry about at the start of vacation. With just a few clicks, you can get all set up with Port Canaveral Parking, the best off-site cruise parking on the block! We offer free shuttles, great rates, friendly service, and top-level security for you and your family. So, what are you waiting for? Reserve your Port Canaveral cruise parking with us today!

when will cruises resume at port canaveral in florida

When Will Cruises Resume at Port Canaveral?

All Aboard: When will cruises resume at Port Canaveral? Ever since the spring of 2020, Port Canaveral (and the rest of the world) has been waiting with baited breath for the answer to a very big question: when will cruises resume?  Well, good news, everyone – we’re back in business! For the past several months, major cruise lines have been putting new protocols into place to prepare for the grand restart of cruising. After nearly 500 days of suspended sailing, we’re all excited to get back to our favorite vacation spots! On June 26, 2021, Royal Caribbean’s Celebrity Edge led the pack with the first ship to sail with regular passengers since the shutdown in 2020. The seven-day cruise from Fort Lauderdale was a success, and more cruise lines are following suit! While only a fraction of cruise ships back on the water, beloved cruise lines like Carnival, Disney, and Royal Caribbean are setting sail in late July and early August from U.S. ports. But what does that mean for Port Canaveral, the world’s 2nd busiest cruise port?  SETTING SAIL IN PORT CANAVERAL: 2021 Port Canaveral is one of the last Florida ports to get back on board with cruising – but it’s well worth the wait. Let’s take a look at what’s in store for our favorite port. Carnival Cruise Line Carnival, one of the world’s most famous cruise line, has already begun cruises out of Galveston, Miami, and Seattle. They’re continuing their trend into Port Canaveral.  The first ship to begin sailing from Port Canaveral is their new LNG cruise ship, the Mardi Gras, which will be heading into the Caribbean on July 31, 2021. Family and friends are guaranteed to love Carnival Cruise Line’s big return – rumor has it that Mardi Gras is powered by LNG and fun! The ship’s maiden voyage will give us an idea of cruising this summer (and how cool it is to have a rollercoaster on the ship!). Royal Caribbean Royal Caribbean started cruising again on July 2, and Tuesday marked the start of a two-day simulated cruise on the Allure of the Seas. The simulated cruise is a big step towards their planned return to the seas in August. If you’ve been missing the Independence, Mariner, Harmony, and Allure of the Seas, don’t worry. There are plenty of upcoming cruises to Coco Cay and the Bahamas planned starting in August. You can check them out here.  Norwegian Cruise Line After the announcement of the cruise line’s new Prima class of ships (homeporting locally in 2022), we’re all excited for Norwegian to get back on the water. Miami-based company Norwegian (NCL) has flagged August for its return to Port Canaveral, with the plan that its ships will sail with a 100% vaccinated guestlist. Due to state restrictions on requiring vaccination proof, this may or may not lead NCL to further postpone their cruises.  However, provided that everything goes smoothly, their first U.S. cruise vacation will set sail from Miami on August 15. It is expected that Port Canaveral’s ships will not be far behind. Disney Cruise Line Despite postponing their initial plans for June test cruises, Disney Cruise Line plans to resume their beloved Caribbean family cruises in August. Kids, teenagers, parents, and adults are all stoked for Disney’s high-seas magic to be back! The first Disney cruise ship to sail from a U.S. port is expected to be the Dream, which will leave from Port Canaveral on August 9th. These 3 and 4-night cruises will mark the return of families to Castaway Cay, the cruise line’s own private island. MSC Cruises (The New Guy in Town) It was only a matter of time before the world’s fastest growing cruise line joined our ranks. In 2020, MSC Cruises announced that the MSC Seaside and MSC Divina would begin offering cruises from Port Canaveral. Now, in 2021, that dream is finally coming true. The MSC website lists multiple upcoming cruises from Port Canaveral – the first of which appears to be sailing on September 16, 2021. Even more Caribbean cruises are planned through September, October, and November!  CRUISING AFTER COVID During and after 2020’s COVID-19 outbreak, things changed on land – and now, to bring back safe cruising in 2021, we’re bringing those protocols to the sea.  From check-in to on-board procedures to mask policies, cruise lines around the world are going above and beyond to keep passengers safe. Every major cruise line has implemented enhanced cleaning, new medical services, and totally-redone air filtration as well. And to promote social distancing, we’re not loading up cruises to full capacity either. While the new policies and procedures for our favorite vacation option may seem a little overwhelming, it’s worth it. Unforgettable fun and world-class adventures on the high seas are no longer just a dream for families in 2021. Just make sure that you know your cruise line’s new health and safety measures before you set sail this summer. Catch up on your favorite cruise line’s new procedures before your next trip: Royal Caribbean Norwegian Cruise Line Disney Cruise Line Carnival Cruise Line  MSC Cruises  CRUISING soon? If you’re asking yourself when will cruises resume this summer, then you’re also probably pulling up your parking options, too. And one thing certainly hasn’t changed since the last time you went on a cruise: on-site parking is still a pain.  But just like before, there are still some amazing alternatives to make sure the start of your cruise goes smoothly. If you’re planning your big return to Caribbean cruising, then it’s time to scope out the best parking in town. At Port Canaveral Parking, you can get on-site service at off-site prices. We offer free shuttles, great staff, and even better rates with all the security in the world for your vehicle. And even better – we’re one of the only places with off-site covered Port Canaveral cruise parking!  If you’re cruising soon, don’t wait to reserve your spot. Cruising is back and better than ever – and so is Port Canaveral Parking!