All 7 Cruise Ports in Florida 2024 Updates

Table Of Content

• What To Do Near Port Canaveral Cruise Port in Florida
• Benefits of Choosing Florida as Your Cruise Departure Point
• Key West
• Navigating Florida's Cruise Ports
• Ports 5 & 6 – Key West, Jacksonville and West Palm Beach
• What Is the Largest Cruise Ship Port in Florida?
• (NEW) Carnival Cruise Terminal 3 (CT3-Launch Pad)

Port's total economic output was USD 3,9 billion with around jobs supported (USD 1,3 billion in wages) including port workers (USD 0,7294 billion in wages). In FY2017, the cruise port handled 4,52+ million passengers (6,4% increase over FY2016). The number of multi-day passengers (4,234+ million) was 7,1% increase over 2016. Statistics showed that just in March 2017, the number of visiting cruiseship tourists was 469,847. Port's FY2017 total revenues were USD 47,4 million (freight and passengers). It exports fresh citrus and bulk frozen citrus juice is stored in one of the biggest freezer warehouses in the state.

The title of world's busiest cruise port shifts to Port Canaveral - Travel Weekly

The title of world's busiest cruise port shifts to Port Canaveral.

Posted: Thu, 08 Jun 2023 07:00:00 GMT [source]

What To Do Near Port Canaveral Cruise Port in Florida

Having your transportation sorted in advance means less time spent in line, in the heat, and more time enjoying the anticipation of your cruise. This strategy ensures a smoother and more relaxing start to your vacation, especially when traveling with family. For family fun, consider ports like Port Canaveral, near the Kennedy Space Center, that offer entertaining options for kids and adults alike. And if the bustling atmosphere of the world’s busiest cruise port isn’t your scene, perhaps a smaller, cozier port like Jacksonville Port might be your cup of tea. So, whether you’re a cruising aficionado or a newbie just testing the waters, Florida’s ports, particularly its largest, will leave you awestruck. It’s no wonder that Florida’s cruise ports, especially the largest ones like Port Miami, are consistently recognized with awards and accolades.

Benefits of Choosing Florida as Your Cruise Departure Point

Florida’s cruise ports serve as gateways to an array of exotic destinations, each offering unique itineraries for a diverse travel experience. The primary destination for many cruises departing from Florida is the Caribbean, with itineraries that often include stops at idyllic islands known for their sandy beaches and clear waters. Florida’s cruise ports are not only gateways to the Caribbean and Bahamas but also hubs of local culture, entertainment, and relaxation. With an array of beaches, historical sites, shopping centers, and theme parks, every port offers an enriching experience for travelers before or after their cruise adventure. Cultural hubs like Miami’s Little Havana also offer a taste of local flavor. Dubbed the “cruise capital of the world,” Port Miami is the showstopper, the headliner, and the most popular cruise port in Florida.

Key West

'World's largest cruise ship' coming to Port Canaveral - WESH 2 Orlando

'World's largest cruise ship' coming to Port Canaveral.

Posted: Fri, 01 Dec 2023 08:00:00 GMT [source]

From its vibrant downtown area to its beautiful beaches and diverse culinary scene, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Visitors can also take advantage of nearby theme parks and wildlife sanctuaries, adding excitement to their trip. Other popular Florida cruise ports include Tampa, Fort Lauderdale, and Miami. These ports offer a wide range of itineraries to destinations all over the world.

This port is a popular stop for cruises traveling through the Caribbean, allowing passengers to explore the charm and history of Key West. Consider the proximity to airports like Orlando International Airport or Fort Lauderdale Airport. A shorter ferry ride from the airport might mean more time for onboard shuffleboard! So, if you’re planning your next cruise vacation and want to be part of the in-crowd, look no further than Port Miami. It’s not just a port; it’s a celebration, an experience, a love affair with the sea.

They’re more than just docking spots; they’re trendsetters, industry leaders, and the heart and soul of the cruising world. Florida’s ports aren’t just titans in size; they’re giants in importance and recognition too. The state’s ports play a crucial role in shaping the cruising industry, fostering innovation, and setting trends that ripple across the globe. From eco-friendly cruise terminals to top-notch passenger experience, Florida’s ports are a beacon of excellence.

As a port of call, it provides cruise passengers with the opportunity to explore this enchanting destination. While the Port of Palm Beach may have fewer cruise lines and itineraries compared to larger ports, the focus on personalized service and a more exclusive experience sets it apart. Passengers can expect top-notch amenities, attentive staff, and a serene atmosphere, ensuring a truly memorable vacation.

Traveling from Miami International Airport to PortMiami takes up to around 20 minutes, depending on the traffic (especially in downtown Miami), and the distance is just over 8 miles. Nestled in the southernmost point of the continental U.S., Key West offers a Caribbean flair without ever leaving the states. Setting sail from the Port of Palm Beach offers not just the promise of a delightful cruise, but also an introduction to the lavish and leisurely lifestyle that the Palm Beaches so effortlessly encapsulate. With its ideal location, passengers are privy to a mix of both the serene beaches and upscale amenities that the region is renowned for. Primarily, Carnival Cruise Line serves as the major cruise operator from JAXPORT, with itineraries frequently geared towards the Bahamas and other short, tropical getaways.

Hotels Near Port Canaveral Cruise Port with Shuttles & Parking

Key West also offers a range of cultural experiences, including art galleries, street performers, and lively festivals. During your time in Miami, you can take advantage of the vibrant city’s diverse attractions and amenities. From exploring the iconic Art Deco district of South Beach to indulging in world-class dining and shopping, there’s no shortage of things to see and do.

This small but mighty port is a popular embarkation point for cruises to the Bahamas and is also a favorite port of call for many cruise lines. PortMiami, also known as the “Cruise Capital of the World,” is home to the world’s largest cruise ships and is responsible for more cruise passenger traffic than any other port in the world. Each year, PortMiami welcomes over five million cruise passengers and is responsible for over $3 billion in economic impact. One of the best benefits of setting sail from a smaller Florida cruise port is access to local attractions. At Port Tampa Bay, two of the city’s popular places are within walking distance of all three terminals – The Florida Aquarium and Sparkman Wharf. Like other cruise ports in Florida, Port Canaveral embraces the need for stewardship of the fragile ecosystems where ships travel.

Head over to Duval Street for a vibrant nightlife scene complete with live music and tasty tropical drinks. Spend time in nature at Fort Zachary Taylor State Park, the Butterfly and Nature Conservatory, Key West Aquarium and stroll the beaches. This Florida cruise port is home to mainly one mainstream cruise line created from a partnership between the former Bahamas Paradise Cruise Line and Margaritaville at Sea.

In April 2023 was proposed the construction of a new cruise terminal on the Port's southern side. Port Canaveral is the nearest Disney World city, situated about one hour east of Orlando by car. In August 2023 was allocated US$68,16 million for two new cruise parking garages (an 8-level near Terminals 5 and 6, and a 6-level near Terminal 10. In April 2023, Port Canaveral officials proposed the construction of a new cruise terminal. The US$175 million facility could be built on the Port's southern side, and completed and opened in 2026-Q4. In December 2017, Port Canaveral completed the 6-month long West Turning Basin deepening project, now allowing max draft of 45 ft (13,7 m).

If you're looking for somewhere to eat, you'll find a plethora of options here, including Greek, Peruvian, French, Italian, Mexican, Asian, Kosher and more. There are some good beaches not too far from the port, along with the popular Manatee Lagoon attraction, but it’s not as tourist-y a place as Miami or Fort Lauderdale if you were flying in the day before. The nearest airport to the port is Palm Beach International Airport, which is around 11 miles away by car. While it is an international airport, it is normally served by internal US flights. The main cruise line that used the port was American Queen Voyages, whose smaller ships explored some of the lesser-known destinations around the US coastline. It’s around a minute drive on average from the port to the nearest airport, which is Tampa International Airport, around 10 miles from the port.