If you've booked a cruise from Port Canaveral cruise port, chances are you're flying into Orlando Airport (MCO). The cruise port is about 45 miles east of the airport. The cheapest and most convenient way to get to the Port Canaveral cruise terminal is to rent a car from Orlando Airport.
If you're extending your cruise by staying in Port Canaveral before or after your cruise, you'll definitely need a rental car to get around. There are so manyThings to see and do in Port Canaveral, along with visiting the beautiful Cocoa Beach and visiting the theme parks in Orlando.
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A few hotels near Orlando Airport offer cruise, parking, and overnight options. You'll need a rental car, as this option typically requires you to drive yourself between your hotel and the designated Port Canaveral cruise parking lot. Check out the details here before you decide -What you need to know about Port Canaveral cruise ship parking
Our up-to-date Port Canaveral car hire information will help you save time and money by helping you find the best car hire deals. We compare prices, show distances from the cruise terminal, offer money-saving tips (e.g. use one-way cars) and suggest different types of vehicle rentals including vans, convertibles and sedans.
Please note that car rental prices vary widely depending on vehicle size, duration and demand for the dates selected. Prices shown are for comparison purposes only and are based on one economy vehicle per day in early March (peak season).
Car Rentals in Port Canaveral
Choose to rent a car near the Port Canaveral cruise terminal. This means you only have a short transfer time to and from the cruise ship. Some Port Canaveral car rental companies are within walking distance if you don't have too much luggage.
Most Port Canaveral car rental companies offer shuttle bus service to and from the port during check-in/disembarkation hours (usually 10:00am to 4:00pm).
The Port Canaveral car rental locations closest to the cruise terminals are located in the Enterprise National Alamo building. If you don't want to wait in line for the shuttle bus, it's a 10-minute walk from Terminal 1.
Enterprise, National and Alamo - 0.5 miles from Port Canaveral Cruise Terminal 1
These three major car rental companies have a joint office near the cruise terminal. They have the largest parking lot and offer quick pickup and drop-off. Take the provided shuttle bus or walk to the office.
Enterprise Port Canaveral Car Rentalfrom $61.99 per day. Vehicles include economy, compact and full-size, SUVs, convertibles, pickups, hybrids and minivans for 7 to 15 passengers. The company offers free shuttle buses to and from the cruise terminals. They also offer one-way rentals if you want to leave your vehicle at the airport. They also accept returns outside of business hours by prior arrangement.
NationalIAlamoPort Canaveral car rentals are located in the same building as Enterprise on Mullett Road and offer vehicles from $63.99 per day. Both have a full range of vehicles to suit your needs, with the same services as Enterprise Port Canaveral.
Hertz - 1 mile from Port Canaveral Cruise Terminal 1
Located on Astronaut Boulevard in Cape Canaveral.Hercoffers complimentary shuttle service to and from Port Canaveral Cruise Terminals daily from 7:30am to 3:30pm. Rental car prices start at $51.48 per day.
They offer a range of mid-size, full-size and premium vehicles, SUVs, Ford Mustang convertibles and minivans for 7 to 12 passengers. Pickup and drop-off service is available within 15 minutes and also available outside of business hours.
Dollar and Thrifty - 2.6 miles from Port Canaveral Cruise Terminal 1
Dollar car rentalis located at 6799 North Atlantic Ave in Cape Canaveral. Prices start at $41.34 for a Manager Special (you choose a car) or choose from Economy, Compact, Midsize, Full Size, Premium, Luxury, SUVs, Convertibles or Minivans.
Optional perks include child seats, Sirius XM satellite radio, PlatePass tolls, and in-car WiFi. The office is also at homeCheap car rentalwhich offers a similar range of rides starting at $43.99 for a wildcard (choose a Compact vehicle or larger). These companies offer free shuttle bus service to and from the cruise terminal.
Avis - 4.2 km from Port Canaveral Cruise Terminal 1
Conveniently located near the Port Canaveral cruise terminal,Avisis located at 6650 North Atlantic Ave in Port Canaveral. It operates daily from 7:30pm to 4:00pm with transfers to the cruise port. The journey takes about 8 minutes. Avis Port Canaveral car rental prices start at $44.99 for an economy car and range from $204 for a select Jaguar F-Pace or similar car.
*Cheap car rental in Port Canaveral*
Budget – 1.6 miles from Port Canaveral Cruise Terminal 1
Book online to get the best ratesBudget von Port CanaveralRental cars from $43.99 for an economy vehicle. They have an extensive range of sedans, SUVs, pickups, convertibles and minivans to suit groups of all sizes. The transfer to the cruise port is located on Astronaut Boulevard in Cape Canaveral and takes approximately 6 minutes. Budget does not process returns after hours, but is open daily from 8am to 4pm and until 6pm on weekends.
One-way car rental tips to and from Port Canaveral
You do not have to pay any parking fees for your rental car during the cruise. Simply opt for a one-way rental car from the airport to Port Canaveral. There's usually an extra charge for another drop-off point, but it's still cheaper than renting a car for a week and then paying for cruise parking.
On your return, disembarkation is usually early, giving you plenty of time to pick up your next pre-booked car in Port Canaveral and drive to Orlando Airport for your afternoon/evening flight. Having a vehicle also gives you the option to securely store your luggage while you shop, sightsee, or grab a bite to eat.
Car Rental from Orlando Airport to Port Canaveral Cruise Terminal
Most car rental companies have an office at Orlando Airport in the ground transportation area. After completing the formalities, follow the signs and take the escalator down to the underground car park.
For faster airport service, join a Hertz, Avis, Budget or National loyalty program and choose express pickup service. This saves you queuing at the cash register.
After picking up your rental car at Orlando Airport, the drive to Port Canaveral takes approximately 45 minutes. Make sure you tick the box for onward transportation back in Port Canaveral and see if the office offers complimentary transportation to the Port Canaveral cruise terminal.
Avis Orlando Airport
Avis Orlando Airportoffers vehicles from $31.76 per day for pre-booked online and pre-paid car rentals. If you go straight to the airport counter without pre-booking a vehicle, prices start at $47 per day.
Booking ahead online means big savings on your Port Canaveral car rental! They have a comprehensive selection of vehicles of all sizes and models, from the economical Ford Fiesta to the Mercedes GLS450 or similar. Indulge yourself and arrive at the Port Canaveral cruise port in style!
Budget
Budgetis the only car rental company at Orlando Airport that offers off-site car rental. Therefore you need to take a free curbside bus to get to the office/pickup point. However, the off-site location offers the lowest budget car rental prices.
Economy car rentals start at $29.70 for a day rental with prepaid reservation. Upgrade a mid-size, full-size, SUV, pickup, coupe, premium or luxury car for a little something extra and enjoy a comfortable ride.
Budget also offers fun compact recreational vehicles like the Jeep Wrangler - the perfect vehicle for exploring the area before or after your cruise.
Dollar
Pick up your rental car in Port CanaveralDollars at Orlando AirportPrices start at $31.32 for a compact vehicle like the Nissan Versa. It's worth checking the City Special for special rates for larger vehicles, where available. Medium and large jeeps and vans are also available.
Pursue
Opt for cheap car hire to Port Canaveral with pickupEnterprise Orlando Airport. Prices start at $37.99 per day for an economy vehicle and go up to $73.19 for the Sporty Dodge Challenger, $199 for the Performance Sports Car and $78-139 for the MPV.
Herc
Hertz Orlando Airportoffers great customer service and self-rent a car to Port Canaveral from $51.08 for a compact Ford Focus or similar. Their fleet includes mid-size, premium, SUVs, vans and luxury muscle cars like the Mustang GT starting at $86.20 per day. This is a great way to get to the Port Canaveral Cruise Terminal in style!
National
Domestic Car RentalOrlando Airport offers 24-hour services for those who need a rental car to the Port Canaveral cruise port. Prices start at $47.55 per day. There is a small additional charge for transport to Port Canaveral, but this saves you from expensive parking on the cruise ship while you are away. National has an impressive fleet of vehicles to suit every budget and size.
*Cheapest car rental from Orlando Airport to Port Canaveral*
EZ car rental
Cheap car rentalNOoffers affordable Orlando International Airport car rentals starting at $24.94 per day. Get a quote on a compact, full-size, mid-size, SUV or mini van when you need more space for passengers or luggage.
Getting to Port Canaveral from Orlando Airport
Driving your rental car from Orlando International Airport to Port Canaveral is very simple and straightforward. The journey takes about 45 minutes.
Follow signs to Route 528 (toll road) east for 43 miles. Then exit at Dave Nisbet Dr and follow signs to Port Canaveral Cruise Port. If you have opted for a one-way rental, make sure you know the pick-up location of your chosen car rental company. Most Port Canaveral car rental companies offer free shuttle bus service to and from the cruise terminal for passengers and their luggage.
Car Rental in Port Canaveral at Sanford Airport
You can save money by flying into Sanford Orlando Airport (SFB) and opting for a cheap rental car to Port Canaveral.
The following car rental companies have offices at Sanford Airport. The drive to Port Canaveral is approximately 60 miles and takes about an hour via I-95 and 528 (toll road) east.
Opt for a one-way car rental to Port Canaveral and find the best stop near the cruise port with the complimentary shuttle bus service.
Alamo
Alamo car rentalto Port Canaveral start at $47 per day for a VW Up or similar economy vehicle. The offices are open daily from 8:30 am to 11:00 pm to accommodate arrival and departure times.
Dollar
Pick up yoursDollar Car Rental Port Canaveralfrom Sanford Airport and only pay $26.39 for a day rental. Additional transportation fees apply elsewhere (e.g., at the Port Canaveral cruise port), but these are cheaper than paying to park your cruise car while on a cruise.
Pursue
Enterprise Sanford International Airport offers car rentals starting at $37.99 for a cheap Mitsubishi Mirage or similar.
Herc
BoxHertz Sanford Airportfor renting a car in Port Canaveral. Prices start at $37.82 per day for a Mazda C-Class or similar. Full Size, SUV, Premium, Luxury and Minivans are also available with advance booking.
*Cheapest car rental in Port Canaveral from Sanford Airport*
Budget
Car rental in SanfordThe price for an economy vehicle at the airport starts at $22.62. Larger sedans, full-size sedans, convertibles, pickups, and vans also accommodate up to 15 passengers traveling to the Port Canaveral cruise terminal.
Also read:What you need to know about renting a car in Miami Cruise Port
Now you have all the information at your fingertips to make an informed decision when booking your Port Canaveral car hire. We hope our information has helped you save time and money. Have a good trip!
FAQs
Port Canaveral Car Rental Guide? ›
An Enterprise rental location is conveniently located at Port Canaveral and provides complimentary shuttle service to and from the cruise terminals. Hours vary based on ship schedule.
Which car rental has shuttle to Port Canaveral? ›An Enterprise rental location is conveniently located at Port Canaveral and provides complimentary shuttle service to and from the cruise terminals. Hours vary based on ship schedule.
Do you need a car in Cape Canaveral? ›If you are extending your cruise by staying in Port Canaveral before or after your cruise, you will definitely need a car rental to get around. There are so many things to see and do in Port Canaveral, along with exploring beautiful Cocoa Beach and visiting the Orlando theme parks.
How early should you get to Port Canaveral? ›Port/Terminal Arrival Time
You should plan to arrive at Port Canaveral no earlier than 11:00am. This will help you avoid a long wait in the terminal prior to boarding. All passengers must be on board the ship no later than 90 minutes prior to sailing (be on board by 2:30 pm). No Exceptions!
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.
Is it easy to Uber to Port Canaveral? ›Uber/Lyft (Recommended)
The rideshare services do offer service to Port Canaveral from the Orlando airport and other points in the area, but it can get pricey. Expect the ride to be about $60-$70 per car (not per person), each way or ~$140 round trip. That means with two people it can be about the cost of a shuttle.
Yes, Uber will pick up at the Port Canaveral cruise terminals. However, it is important to note Cape Canaveral is a smaller city with a limited amount of drivers available. There is a high chance you will be met with a hefty surge price or get stuck waiting for a ride.
Can you walk around Port Canaveral? ›GETTING AROUND PORT CANAVERAL
If you're in terminal 1 or 3 then you'll be able to walk to some activities like Jetty Park, the Cove, and Exploration Tower. To head out to Cocoa Beach you can also catch the local beach bus (for schedule and routes click here).
Go Port offers the most convenient and affordable way to get to and from your cruise. Shared shuttles from the Orlando Airport to Port Canaveral run regularly between 10:00 AM - 12:30 PM and will drop you off right at your ship with plenty of time to board.
Do you need a passport to go on a cruise from Port Canaveral? ›DOS recommends that everyone taking a cruise from the United States have a passport book in case of emergency, such as an unexpected medical air evacuation or the ship docking at an alternate port. Note: Baptismal papers and hospital certificates of birth are not acceptable.
What is the difference between Port Canaveral and Cape Canaveral? ›
It was "Port Canaveral" from 1954 to 1962, and then the City of Cape Canaveral from 1962 to 1963, when a larger post office was built. In 1963, President Lyndon Johnson issued an executive order renaming the area "Cape Kennedy", after President John F. Kennedy, who had set the goal of landing on the Moon.
How long does it take to get off a cruise ship after docking? ›Once a ship docks, it needs to clear customs before the passengers are allowed off. This process is usually pretty quick so you should be able to be off the ship within 15 to 30 minutes of the scheduled arrival time.
What time do cruise ships return to Port Canaveral? ›Cruise ships return to port early in the morning (6-7 a.m.), and then it can take 2-3 hours for everyone to get off the ship. That means you can get off the ship and on your way anywhere between 8- 10 a.m. Of course, you then have a 45 minute ride to the port, followed by security screening.
How much does it cost to park your car at Port Canaveral? ›There are parking lots serving each cruise terminal. How much is parking at the Port Canaveral cruise terminal? Port Canaveral cruise parking starts at $8 per day with Cruisetime Parking. Onsite parking at the port costs $17 per day.
Is a credit card payment accepted for parking fees at Port Canaveral? ›Port Canaveral Parking
Parking rates are flat fees and can only be paid by credit card. No cash is accepted onsite. Each terminal has dedicated accessibility parking.
The cruise lines let you go as soon as the ship is docked, secured, and the local authorities have given the go-ahead. All you need to do is scan your keycard as you exit the ship.
How far is Port Canaveral cruise port from Orlando Airport? ›Port Canaveral, in the center of Florida's east coast, is situated about 42 miles from Orlando International Airport. Other than cruise passengers, Port Canaveral is also home to beaches, boating, restaurants, and fishing and camping areas.
How long is the shuttle from MCO to Port Canaveral? ›Normally takes less than 45 minutes, that's 45.6 mile, to ride our shuttles from MCO to the terminals at Port Canaveral to board your cruise ship. Our transportation service provides a clean, air conditioned and professionally driven sedans, van, SUV's, limousines, mini-buses and coach buses.
Is Port Canaveral a busy port? ›BREVARD COUNTY, Fla. — Port Canaveral is now the world's busiest cruise port, with 4,072,396 multi-day passengers setting sail in 2022, according to the Florida Ports Council.
How early can you board a cruise ship? ›The earliest that guests can board a cruise is between 4-5 hours before the ship is scheduled to sail away. Guests may be able to check in earlier but will usually not be able to embark until this time.
Are taxis available at Port Canaveral? ›
You can also utilize our Port Canaveral taxi service by calling Mears Taxi at 407-422-2222. Please note: luxury and taxi chauffeurs will only pick up at Port Canaveral if you pre-arrange your ride in advance with your driver during your drop-off.
Is UberX different than Uber? ›What is the difference between Uber and UberX, you might wonder? Actually, there is no difference between UberX and Uber – UberX is simply a basic level of service that Uber offers. Uber offers a variety of service level options. They range from cheaper, economy rides to pricier luxury rides.
Can you visit Cape Canaveral for free? ›No access pass is required for a visit. Historic information and exhibits for each launch complex at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station are on display. Treetop Trek, guided kayak tours, feed Giraffes and Lorikeets.
How far is Port Canaveral from the beach? ›Cocoa Beach and the Cocoa Beach Pier (401 Meade Ave, Cocoa Beach) are one of the biggest highlights in the area, and if you're staying in Port Canaveral area, it's a short 15 minute drive to the beach and the lively pier area.
Are masks required at Port Canaveral? ›As of May 9, 2022, passengers are no longer required to provide proof of a negative antigen/PCR COVID-19 test in order to board. Masks and Physical Distancing Requirements: Masks are optional.
How far is the Amtrak station from Port Canaveral cruise terminal? ›Amtrak to/from Port Canaveral
Orlando Amtrak Station ORL is 54 miles from Port Canaveral – It is at least a 1-hour drive. Kissimmee Amtrak Station is another option but it is still at least a 1-hour drive to the Port.
The average price of a shuttle ride from MCO to Port Canaveral Cruise Terminal is $28.00 per person.
How long does it take to cruise from Port Canaveral to Bahamas? ›You Should Know
It would take around 1 hour! Harbor Island is a part of the Bahamas that is most well-known for its unique pink sand beaches.
Though most foreign travel requires that you have a valid passport to come back home, cruising makes it easier to enjoy your vacation without worrying about this paperwork. If you are a US citizen, you can take a “closed-loop cruise” (one that begins and ends at the same port) to The Bahamas without a passport.
Do you need a real ID to go on a Carnival cruise? ›A non-expired government-issued photo I.D. is required of all guests 16 years of age and older. The following are acceptable: Driver's License (a temporary Driver's License with photo is acceptable)
Do you take your passport on shore excursions? ›
Should you take your passport with you on shore excursions? No, you shouldn't bring your passport, unless your tour requires it. We recommend bringing your driver's license as a form of ID instead.
Is Port Canaveral the same as Kennedy Space Center? ›Cape Canaveral is composed of two items, the Kennedy Space Center, run by NASA, and the Cape Canaveral Air Force Base, run by the Air Force.
What is the best airport to get to Port Canaveral? ›Orlando International Airport (MCO), which is situated about 45 miles west of Port Canaveral, Florida, is the closest airport and one of the busiest in the area.
Why is it no longer called Cape Kennedy? ›From 1963 to 1973 it was called Cape Kennedy. President John F. Kennedy was an enthusiastic backer of the space program, and after his assassination in 1963, his widow Jacqueline Kennedy suggested to President Lyndon Johnson that renaming the Cape Canaveral facility would be an appropriate memorial.
Can you get breakfast on last day of cruise? ›Yes, breakfast is served on cruise disembarkation day. You can visit the buffet or sit in the main dining room for one last breakfast. Some cruise lines allow you to order room service.
What time do you leave the ship after a cruise? ›On voyage-conclusion days, also called turnaround days, passengers are asked to vacate their cabins between 8 and 8:30 a.m. so stewards can begin cleaning them for the next round of cruisers. Everyone from the cruise that's ending must be off the ship between 9 and 10 a.m. in most cases.
Do you go through customs after a cruise? ›When your cruise ship arrives at its disembarkation port, local immigration officials need to clear the ship before anyone can disembark. Ships that terminate in U.S. ports may require passengers to fill out Customs forms and show their passports to border control in the cruise terminal.
What to do after cruise before flight Port Canaveral? ›- Port Canaveral Cruise Terminal.
- Beach entrance by Downtown Cocoa Beach.
- Cocoa Beach by Cocoa Beach Pier.
- Inside Ron Jon Surf Shop.
- Rising Tide.
- Coconuts on the Beach.
The vast majority of passengers simply sail their normal cruise itinerary. But can you just get off the ship and return home on your own terms? The answer is yes, but there are some major complications (and laws) that should be considered.
What time is your room ready on a cruise? ›Staterooms are typically ready around 1:30 p.m. on the day of your voyage. Luggage may not arrive for a few hours afterward, so I recommend that you bring a swimsuit and coverup in a carry-on bag if you'd like to enjoy the pools onboard shortly after boarding.
Is there a shuttle from Port Canaveral to airport? ›
Port Canaveral Connection is Orlando's leading shuttle service provider from Port Canaveral to Orlando airport and vice versa.
What port does Royal Caribbean use at Port Canaveral? ›All told, Port Canaveral has five terminals that serve cruise ships, with another one on the way. Located on the south bank of the port and to the east of most of the other terminals, CT1 is home to Royal Caribbean.
What is the closest airport to Port Canaveral Carnival Cruise Terminal? ›Orlando International Airport (MCO), which is situated about 45 miles west of Port Canaveral, Florida, is the closest airport and one of the busiest in the area.
How far is it from Orlando Airport to Port Canaveral cruise dock? ›Per Google Maps distance between Orlando Airport to Port Canaveral is 45.6 miles, but of course there can be some traffic time to time so actual drive time is between 50 to 55 min.
How much does it cost to shuttle from MCO to Port Canaveral? ›The average price of a shuttle ride from MCO to Port Canaveral Cruise Terminal is $28.00 per person.
Is Uber available in Cape Canaveral? ›When you ride with Uber on your next trip from MCO to Cape Canaveral FL, you've got choices. Whether you're traveling alone or with others, find a ride option that fits your needs and budget. If you like to plan ahead, consider scheduling a ride to Cape Canaveral FL in advance.
How much is an Uber from Port Canaveral to Disney? ›Trip prices can vary a bit depending on a number of factors. The average trip price to get from Orlando FL to Cape Canaveral FL is $69.00 - $138.00.
Do I need a passport to cruise from Port Canaveral to The Bahamas? ›Though most foreign travel requires that you have a valid passport to come back home, cruising makes it easier to enjoy your vacation without worrying about this paperwork. If you are a US citizen, you can take a “closed-loop cruise” (one that begins and ends at the same port) to The Bahamas without a passport.
What airport to fly into for cruise out of Port Canaveral? ›For cruising out of Port Canaveral, most people fly into Orlando International Airport (MCO), which is about 45 minutes by car from the cruise terminal. It's the closest airport to the terminal with the most flights from gateways across America.
What airport do you fly into for Cape Canaveral? ›What airports are near Cape Canaveral? The closest airport is Melbourne (MLB) (20.06 mi). Other nearby airports are Orlando (MCO) (42.63 mi), Orlando All airports (ORL) (45.33 mi), Orlando Sanford Intl (SFB) (46.92 mi) or Daytona Beach (DAB) (61.26 mi).
Do I need a passport to go on a cruise? ›
Do I need a passport? We recommend that everyone taking a cruise from the United States have a passport book. Though some “closed-loop” cruises may not require a U.S. passport, we recommend bringing yours in case of an emergency, such as an unexpected medical air evacuation or the ship docking at an alternate port.