The iconic seven-story Exploration Tower overlooking Port Canaveral is a beacon of welcome for more than 6 million visitors annually. TONY BALZANTO
Even the locals love Port Canavera
Port Canaveral was voted by Cruise Hive as the Best Home Cruise Port for the 5th time. It’s proximity to attractions such as theme parks and Kennedy Space Center, along with high passenger satisfaction, keep the port at the top of cruise lists. FRED MAYS
The Space Coast is home to miles of beautiful beaches for soaking up the sun, wildlife trails for hiking and exploring, and riverways for water sports and fishing — there’s much to do and see here. Sometimes, though, we just need to get away from it all. Just a short drive away is the portal to the perfect getaway: Port Canaveral.
It’s been named the second busiest cruise port, globally, and was voted the best home cruise port for the fifth time by Cruise Hive. With seven designated cruise ports and 13 deep water cargo ship berths, Port Canaveral is a daily operation that welcomes more than 6,000,000 visitors every year and brings in revenue of more than $190 million — the majority of which comes from cruise operations. Additionally, visitors and residents appreciate the port’s amenities, such as restaurants, a marina, a casino boat and shops, optimal for meals, cruise send-offs, wildlife watching or even a chance to spot a SpaceX booster and drone ship arriving back from its perfect ocean landing.
This award-winning hub is currently home to 21 cruise ships, though the exact number changes with the seasons as ships are repositioned to take advantage of weather and sailing conditions. One recent addition is Royal Caribbean’s Utopia of the Seas, billed as “the world’s biggest weekend.” It offers three- and four-night cruises designed for everything from high-adrenaline adventure to low-key relaxation on one ship. Multiple pools, water slides, rock climbing, ice skating and laser tag keep adults entertained and kids busy — perfect for family fun. There are also multiple bars, a lively casino, live music, theater and comedy shows. However, quiet moments can be found while strolling in Central Park, napping in a private cabana or sneaking off to one of the ship’s lounge chairs to gaze out at the blue ocean water.
Waving goodbye from shore and ship have become a time-honored tradition at Port Canaveral. Jetty Park, located within the port, offers unparalleled views of the ships as they sail past. It’s also a great spot for RV camping, fishing at the pier and water activities. FRED MAYS
Central Park at night has a magical atmosphere — glowing lights, live music setting the mood, and specialty restaurants offering delicious food. It’s the perfect spot to unwind. STEVEN HICKS
Audrey and Jeremy Stewart of Viera often cruise out of Port Canaveral in their downtime. Audrey is the busy co-owner of Harbor Auto Restoration, a family-run business in Rockledge for nearly 40 years; Jeremy is a respected and successful Realtor in the Melbourne area. Audrey sums up cruising out of Port Canaveral perfectly: “As a business owner, time is everything. Thanks to the convenience of Port Canaveral and the variety of cruise options, my family and I can leave for a weekend getaway on a Friday morning and be back to work refreshed by Monday. With the newest ships sailing from our home port, we have world-class vacation experiences just minutes away. And when we want a full week of adventure, nothing beats the ease of sailing from home and returning without the hassle of long travel days. It’s the perfect balance of work and relaxation!”
Disney Cruise Line introduced Disney Treasure to Port Canaveral in 2024. This family-friendly ship has an action-packed, seven-day itinerary to either the Eastern or Western Caribbean, with focus on Disney characters, Broadway-style shows, elevated dining experiences and water thrill-rides. While the kids are busy with activities, parents can check out one of the fun adults-only clubs such as the Haunted Mansion-themed lounge or Periscope Pub. Disney brings its excellence to the spa as well, offering a mix of pampering packages and services for much needed relaxation.
A diverse line of cruise ships calls Port Canaveral home, with multiple ships from Royal Caribbean, Disney, MSC, Carnival, Celebrity, Norwegian, and Princess Cruise Lines utilizing the expanded port. The port has its very own Love Boat, offering 6- to 14-night cruises with a multitude of stops and itineraries. Additionally, Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Aqua is set to sail from Port Canaveral in 2025, offering unique features such as a hybrid rollercoaster and waterslide, with 7-day itineraries.
Port Canaveral offers countless opportunities to see new sights, as well as to reconnect with family, friends and, most importantly, yourself.
See the original article in print publication
