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A sign from he highway welcomes travelers to the Tampa International Airport in Florda
Departure Ports, Hotels, Tampa Bay, United States

Tampa Hotels for Cruisers with Shuttle to the Cruise Port

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Hotels Near Tampa Cruise Port If you’re staying in Tampa the night before a cruise out of Port Tampa Bay, you’ll find many great hotel options, many close to the port and some with shuttle service, although the choice can sometimes feel overwhelming. Florida is home to several cruise ports, including two of the biggest in the world — Port Miami and Port Canaveral — and Port Tampa Bay is very small in comparison. I like this port because it isn’t as bustling as the giant ones, but it’s still well-run with efficient boarding, and the terminal is clean and modern. When it comes to my recommendations for affordable Tampa hotels, which are below, I will include a caveat. During peak times in the area, such as when Tampa’s annual Gasparilla Pirate Festival or other big events are happening, hotel pricing can spike due to high demand. In this case, budget-conscious cruisers might consider properties located in nearby Clearwater, Brandon, or Dundein. Ybor City is Tampa Bay’s historic Latin quarter. Downtown Tampa is a great place to stay, and less than two miles from the port, but it’s a pricier location, so cruisers seeking a hotel that’s affordable will find more budget-friendly options by the Tampa International Airport (TPA), which is only about seven miles from Port Tampa Bay. Hotels adjacent to Port Tampa Bay generally cost more than airport area hotels, but many cruisers still go that route for the convenience of location. book a cruise from Tampa Affordable Tampa Hotels Near Cruise Port Hampton Inn Tampa Downtown Channel District Address: 1155 E Kennedy Blvd, Tampa, FloridaOf all the hotel options in the Port Tampa Bay area, this is one of the closest at a little more than half a mile and is walkable in under 10 minutes. It’s also the rare hotel that provides free shuttle to the cruise port, and the times the shuttle runs varies daily depending on the cruise port schedule. Another benefit to this property for budget savvy cruisers it that it offers free hot breakfast — none of that continental business. Parking is high, though, at $32.25 per day, but cruisers parking for a longer period of time can get $11.99 daily parking through Rightway Parking, a third-party parking provider. BOOK Home2Suites by Hilton Channel District Address: 1155 East Kennedy Boulevard, Tampa, FloridaAnother hotel that’s less than a mile from the Tampa cruise port is Home2Suites, where cruisers can reach their terminal in just about a 12-minute walk, depending on the terminal. Guests staying here enjoy free hot breakfast, buffet-style, from 6-10 am and free shuttle to the port, which is available on a first come, first served basis. Like with Hampton Inn, nightly parking here is high at $30 per day, but the property recommends that cruisers parking there during their cruise book through third-party parking provider Rightway Parking for better pricing at around $11.99 per day. BOOK Tampa Airport Hotel Option Quality Inn Tampa Airport1020 South Dale Mabry Highway, Tampa, Florida Cruisers who prefer a more affordable option, and don’t mind being a bit further from port often choose this property. This is also a great choice for cruisers who fly in on a late flight. Benefits of staying here are that it’s obviously close to the airport for cruisers flying in, and they also offer a free shuttle to the property from the Tampa Airport. In addition, shuttle service is available to the cruise port for $10 per person, set up at check in; although unless you’re a solo cruiser, Uber is likely a more affordable choice at around $13-20 per ride. Parking here is $12 per day, but the cheaper option for those parking during their cruise is the property’s “park and cruise” package, which includes a one-night stay, up to 14 days of parking, and cruise port shuttle service for two. Free hot breakfast is available from 6-9 am. BOOK Getting to Port Tampa Bay from the Airport These are all great hotels in Tampa, which are consistently highly ranked by cruisers sailing from Port Tampa Bay, but I advise folks not to book them (or any property) because of the fact that these hotels offer a shuttle to the cruise port. Instead, consider convenience, hotel ratings, location, and other amenities when deciding. If you opt to stay at a hotel near the Tampa Airport, complimentary shuttle service is generally provided, but this is not typically an amenity offered by hotel properties by Port Tampa Bay. My post here highlights various transfer options to get you from the airport to the cruise port. Get Tampa transfer prices Things to Do in Tampa Before Your Cruise If you have time to kill in Tampa before embarking on a cruise, consider a morning in Ybor City. There are locations in this charming and historic district, which is located less than three miles from port, where you can pay a small fee to securely store your bags and then explore the many nearby stores and restaurants before your cruise. Other popular Tampa attractions include the Busch Gardens theme park, Florida Aquarium, ZooTampa, and Tampa Riverwalk. Book Your Tampa Hotel Now Things to Know About the Tampa Cruise Port

A Carnival cruise ship is seen from a cruise terminal.
Departure Ports, Jacksonville, United States

Exploring the Jacksonville Cruise Port: All You Need to Know

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The Jacksonville cruise port, also known as “JAXPORT,” is one of the smaller ports in Florida. It is basically a hub just for Carnival cruises, but it still sees a steady flow of over 1 million cruise passengers yearly. JAXPORT is tiny compared to the other Florida ports, including two of the biggest in the world — Port Canaveral and Port Miami. Unlike the other cruise ports in Florida, which generally service many of the major cruise lines, the Jacksonville Cruise Port offers cruise service solely from Carnival, where cruises depart from the JAXPORT Cruise Terminal in North Jacksonville year-round, including four-day and five-day cruises to The Bahamas. Carnival ships sailing out of Jacksonville Cruise Port are Ecstasy and Elation. While JAXPORT is presently utilized only by Carnival, Norwegian has announced plans to sail from the Jacksonville cruise port starting in November 2025.  explore cruises from jaxport Until November 2025, Carnival is the only cruise line to offer sailings from JAXPORT. Getting to the Jacksonville Cruise Port The Jacksonville cruise port is about 10 miles from the Jacksonville airport, which is about a 15-25 minute drive, depending on traffic. Since JAXPORT is such a small cruise port, transportation options from the airport to port are more limited than other departure ports. There are no rental car companies located at the JAXPORT Cruise Terminal. Cruise Line Transfer: Most cruise lines offer transfer service from airport to port, but Jaxport is the exception, as Carnival does not provide this service here. Taxi Service: JAXPORT’s franchised taxi service provides taxi and shuttle service between the cruise terminal and Jacksonville Airport. Cruisers can contact the taxi service at 904- 222-2222 and call 904-338-9595, Option 2, for shuttle and special needs transportation. Rideshare: When it comes to getting to port, I typically recommend using Uber, which for this distance runs $20-30, depending on the time of day and other factors. Private Transfer: Cruisers can book their own private transfer service, which is much more convenient than cruise line transfer service or hotel transfer services, which is typically on a bus or shuttle with other cruisers. Get Transfer offers transfer service for up to three people from the airport to Jaxport starting at $37, or cruisers traveling in a larger group can book a van for up to 8 people starting at $56 or a minibus for up to 16 people starting at $110. Public Transportation: There aren’t any easily accessible public transportation options to get to JAXPORT. get private transfer pricing Best Jacksonville Hotels for Cruisers This is a lengthy topic, so I created a separate post detailing the best Jacksonville hotels near the cruise port with shuttle service. compare jacksonville hotel prices Jacksonville Cruise Port Parking The address for the JAXPORT Cruise Terminal parking facility is 9810 August Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32226, and directions are available on the facility’s website. Situated on JAXPORT property, the parking area is well-lighted and securely fenced, and is conveniently located just steps away from the cruise terminal building. Parking is monitored round-the-clock by JAXPORT security personnel, and there are designated disabled parking spaces are provided for those in need. The Jacksonville Cruise Port does not require advance reservations, although advance bookings are available for added convenience on the Jaxport Cruise Terminal Parking website. The cost of parking at the Jacksonville Cruise Port is $17 per day, or $34 per day for oversized vehicles.   Jacksonville Cruise Schedule Cruisemapper provides a real-time ship schedule for JAXPORT.   Things to Do in New Jacksonville Before a Cruise If you’re staying at a Jacksonville hotel the night before your cruise from JAXPORT, or have a morning to kill before your cruise, there are plenty of things to do in the area. The city’s vibrant cultural scene offers attractions such as the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens and the Museum of Contemporary Art Jacksonville. The Jacksonville Zoo and Anheuser Busch Brewery are also big attractions in the area, along with the scenic downtown Riverwalk,

Port NOLA as seen from a cruise ship departing New Orleans, Louisiana
Departure Ports, New Orleans, United States

New Orleans Cruise Port: What You Need to Know

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The New Orleans cruise port is officially named “Port NOLA,” and the port accommodates hundreds of cruise ship calls annually, welcoming over 1.2 million passengers to the vibrant city of New Orleans. Many cruise lines, including Carnival Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, and some other small specialty lines depart from this port. What makes Port NOLA distinctive, and is my personal favorite part about it, is that it takes cruisers along the Mississippi River. Sailings from this port call to many destinations, and the Western Caribbean is popular for cruises departing from Port NOLA. I sought out a sailing here because 1) I wanted the experience of “rolling on the river” and 2) I aspired to visit some Western Caribbean ports I hadn’t yet visited, including Roatan and Belize. Given that I have to fly to cruise ports, it was nice to also enjoy the day before in the fun and unique city of New Orleans. Port NOLA boasts two bustling cruise terminals. The Erato Street Cruise Terminal is used by Carnival, and its address is 1100 Port of New Orleans Place. The Julia Street Cruise Terminal at 920 Port of New Orleans Place is the one you’ll use if sailing Norwegian or Royal Caribbean. While I enjoyed my experience sailing out of Port NOLA, I found this port to be more chaotic, crowded, and less organized than some of the other bigger ports like Port Canaveral and Port Miami, or even smaller ones like Port Everglades. Port NOLA is conveniently located in downtown New Orleans, making it easy to find a nearby hotel for cruisers who fly in, and allowing them to enjoy the sites and amenities of the city before their cruise vacation. Getting to the New Orleans Cruise Port Port NOLA is less than 20 miles from Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY), which is approximately a 20-30 minute drive, depending on traffic. Here are the best options to get from MSY airport to Port NOLA: Best New Orleans Hotels for Cruisers This is an involved topic, so I created a separate post detailing the best New Orleans hotels near the cruise port with a shuttle. Port NOLA Parking Port NOLA offers convenient parking options for cruise passengers, with secure parking facilities at the Erato Street Cruise Terminal and the Julia Street Cruise Terminal. The Erato Terminal offers more than 1,000 parking spots within the terminal, while the Julia Street Terminal, right next door to Erato, offers secured parking adjacent to the terminal. Passengers can choose between covered and uncovered parking spaces, with rates typically varying based on the duration of the cruise, starting at $25 per day. Eligible disabled veterans may qualify for free parking, for up to 7 days. Parking is available at both terminals on a first-come, first-served basis; however, according to the Port NOLA website, reservations are unnecessary since cruise passengers are guaranteed parking in one of the Port’s facilities. Cruisers are advised to not access cruise terminals from the entrances to Port of New Orleans Place at Julia St. or Poydras St. Specific driving directions are available on the Port NOLA website. Port NOLA Schedule The cruise ship schedule can be found directly on the PORT NOLA website. Things to Do in New Orleans Before a Cruise If you have time to kill in New Orleans before embarking on a cruise, there are plenty of things to do that are free and low cost, and fairly easy to access by foot, assuming you’re staying at hotel near the cruise port. My top recommendations include exploring the French Quarter and enjoying the famous beignets at Cafe Du Monde. If you don’t mind loud music and crowds, the vibe at Bourbon Street is something to check out. Families might want to check out the Audubon Aquarium, which is very close to the cruise port, and gamblers may enjoy another destination close to Port NOLA, which is Harrah’s Casino. Another option is to book an excursion, like one of those listed below.

Tampa buildings as seen from the Port Tampa cruise port
Departure Ports, Tampa Bay, United States

Everything You Need to Know About Tampa Cruise Port: Parking and Terminal

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The Tampa cruise port is officially named “Port Tampa Bay.” Of the many ports in Florida, it’s one of the smallest, serving just over 1 million cruise passengers annually. With Margaritaville at Sea announcing that they will start sailing from Tampa in summer 2024, that number will continue to rise. Presently, Royal Caribbean International, Holland America Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Carnival Cruise Line depart from this port. Despite its smaller size, I’ve found it to run just as smoothly and efficiently as two of its comparatively giant sister ports, Port Miami and Port Canaveral. Port Tampa Bay accommodates a variety of watercraft but only has three terminals for cruise ships: Terminals #2, #3, and #6, making it quite easy to navigate. Cruisers can determine their departure terminal by consulting the cruise documents provided by the cruise line. Still, upon arrival at the port, signage will indicate where each cruise ship is docked. Port Tampa Bay is small but well-run.   The address of the Tampa cruise port is, in general, located on Channelside Drive, but the specific addresses per terminal are as follows: Terminal #2 is 651 Channelside Drive and its corresponding parking garage address is 810 Channelside Drive and Terminal #3 is 815 Channelside Drive and its parking garage is shared with Terminal #2 with the same address (810 Channelside Drive). The Terminal #6 address is the same as the address for its corresponding parking lot, which is 1331 McKay Street. Book a cruise from port Tampa Bay Getting to Port Port Tampa Bay is about 15 miles from TPA (Tampa International Airport), which is approximately a 20-30 minute drive, depending upon traffic. Cruisers flying to Tampa may also consider searching for flights to St. Petersburg (PIE) (14.6 miles), Sarasota/Bradenton (SRQ) (39.4 miles), Orlando (MCO) (78.1 miles), given their relatively close proximity to Port Tampa Bay and the fact that there sometimes can be a substantial difference in airfare pricing between airports. Best Options to Get from Tampa Airport to Port Tampa Bay Cruise Line Transfer: Most cruise lines offer transfer service, and Carnival’s service from TPA to Port Tampa Bay, as one example, is $24.99 per person. This is booked directly through your cruise line. Hotel Shuttle: Some Tampa hotels offer an optional (shared) shuttle service for guests, but this usually is not provided as a free amenity, and the cost can end up being more than the other transfer options. Rideshare: When it comes to getting to port, I typically recommend using Uber, which for this distance runs $38-55, depending on the time of day and other factors, but that is for up to four passengers. Private Transfer: Cruisers can book their own private transfer service, which is much more convenient than cruise line transfer service or hotel transfer services, which are typically on a bus or shuttle with other cruisers. Get Transfer offers transfer service for up to three people from Tampa Airport to Port Tampa Bay starting at $40, or cruisers traveling in a larger group can book a van for up to 8 people starting at $61 or a minibus for up to 16 people starting at $119. Public Transportation: The TECO Line Streetcar is free to ride and runs a route that takes travelers to a stop at Channelside Drive, which is the location of the three Tampa terminals. The TPA website has a great comprehensive summary of up-to-date transportation options, including pricing. Book a transfer Best Tampa Hotels for Cruisers This is an involved topic, so I created a separate post detailing the best Tampa hotels near the cruise port with a shuttle. Port Tampa Parking Best tampa cruiser hotels The Port Tampa Bay parking garage is located across the street from the central cruise terminal at 815 Channelside Drive, Tampa, Florida 33602, and signs on-site direct cruise passengers to the garage. Rates are $15.75 per day for self-parking, and cruisers can pony up a $20 one-time additional fee to enjoy the convenience of valet service.  With valet service, cruisers can pull right into the terminal area, and a valet will park your car for you, and then have it waiting for you when you later disembark the ship.   Parking can be purchased in advance directly from the Port Tampa Bay website, although no reservation is required. If you plan to park an oversized vehicle over 7’2″, which costs $36.50 per day, however, booking in advance is advisable, as these spaces are very limited and can sell out far in advance. Port Schedule The Port Tampa Bay cruise schedule can be found directly on the port’s website. Things to Do in Tampa Before a Cruise If you have time to kill in Tampa before embarking on a cruise, consider a morning in Ybor City. There are locations in this charming and historic district, which is located less than three miles from port, where you can pay a small fee to securely store your bags and then explore the many nearby stores and restaurants before your cruise. Other popular Tampa attractions include the Busch Gardens theme park, Florida Aquarium, ZooTampa, and Tampa Riverwalk. Things to Know About the Tampa Cruise Port

A woman and her daughter pose on a Carnival cruise ship docked in Galveston, Texas, with the Galveston skyline visible behind them.
Cruise Tips, Departure Ports, Galveston, Hotels, United States

Best Affordable Hotels in Galveston with Shuttle to Cruise Port

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Looking for hotels in Galveston before your cruise? Port of Galveston in Texas is a popular departure port for Western Caribbean itineraries, but it can present a tricky dilemma for cruisers who come in the day before their cruise and need an affordable place to stay. Most who come to Port of Galveston by plane fly into George Bush Intercontinental/Houston Airport (IAH) or William P. Hobby Airport (HOU), neither of which are close to the cruise port. While it may seem tempting to select a hotel near the airport and transport to Port of Galveston on embarkation day, I advise against this for three reasons. First, the Houston-area hotels aren’t exactly in the best locations, especially Hobby. Second, the distance between the airports and port is 41 miles (Hobby) and 70 miles (IAH), and the traffic and construction on Interstate 45 are both notoriously bad, meaning that the time from the airport to cruise port can exceed an hour and a half. Finally, there isn’t much to do in the immediate vicinity of Houston airports, unlike in Galveston. I advise cruisers to stay at a hotel in Galveston, although properties near the cruise port during peak times can spike in price. If that occurs, budget-conscious cruisers might consider finding a hotel halfway down I-45 between Houston and Galveston to put them much closer to port, but not pay as much for a hotel stay. As for hotels in Galveston proper, my top recommendations for affordable options are below. Hotels near Port of Galveston Holiday Inn Resort Galveston on the BeachAddress: 5002 Seawall Blvd, Galveston Island, TX Port of Galveston is on Galveston Island, and this hotel is on that island and in close proximity, at just 3.5 miles. The property features ocean view and balcony rooms, along with free Wi-Fi and a heated outdoor pool. It’s oceanside, meaning that it’s just a short walk across the street to the beach, where loungers and umbrellas are available for rent. There are a ton of restaurants within walking distance, including Rainforest Cafe. Parking is available for $70 for the week, for up to 8 days, and there is a “Park, Stay and Go” rate that includes shuttle to port, parking, and one night’s stay. The shuttle to port is $15 per person, compared to an Uber which runs $15-30 for up to four people. The Tremont House Hotel GalvestonAddress: 2300 Ship Mechanic Row St, Galveston, TX The Tremont House brings character and charm as Galveston’s only downtown historic hotel in The Strand, and it’s consistently one of the top-rated properties in the area. The Strand is Galveston’s historic district, lined with ornate late 1800s buildings and filled with restaurants, art galleries, museums, shops, and more. It’s one of the few hotels that’s feasibly walkable to port, just two blocks, although they offer shuttle service for $15 per person (an Uber in comparison is $8-15 for up to four people). Guests receive complimentary Wi-Fi and continental breakfast, and parking is available at $100 for a week (up to 7 days). Harbor House at Pier 21 Address: 28 Pier 21, Galveston, TX 77550 Another property located less than a mile from port (0.9 mi.) is Harbor House, which is technically walkable to port, depending on the terminal from which you’re sailing. They do offer shuttle service, at $15 for two people, along with free Wi-Fi and continental breakfast. An Uber runs around $9-15 for up to four people. For cruisers driving in, parking is $15 per night. There are some restaurants around the hotel, but the best bet is to walk the three blocks to The Strand. Transportation to Port of Galveston Given that Galveston is quite a distance from Houston and its airports, hotels do not generally offer shuttle service, even for a fee. Here are the three best options to get from Houston to Port of Galveston: Things to do Near Galveston If you’re staying at a Galveston hotel the night before your cruise from the Port of Galveston, or have a morning to kill before your cruise, there are a number of great activities nearby. All of these sites are close to the recommended hotels; many of them walkable. The Strand is a great place to explore and is Galveston’s historic district, lined with ornate late 1800s buildings filled with restaurants, art galleries, museums, shops, and more, and it’s just blocks away from all of these recommended properties. Rainforest Cafe is another nearby option that is great for families, although this one isn’t walkable at about 4 miles in distance. Another family-friendly site is the Galveston Railroad Museum, which provides interactive exhibits at a location that’s less than a mile from these hotels. The museum has forty pieces of rolling stock, a substantial collection of dining car china, and two incredible model railroad layouts, and runs weekly caboose rides on Saturdays. Book Your Galveston Hotel Now!

A Carnival cruise ship docks at one of its private islands in the Bahamas.
Cruise Tips, Departure Ports, Hotels, Jacksonville, United States

Affordable Hotels Near the Jacksonville Cruise Port with Shuttle

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It can be difficult to find advice about affordable hotels with a shuttle near the Jacksonville cruise port (JAXPORT) as this is a tiny port compared to the other Florida giants: Port Canaveral, Port Miami, and Port Everglades. Selecting a hotel near the Jacksonville port is also challenging, as there aren’t many options right at the port. Carnival is the only cruise line that uses this port, and its current ships that sail out of Jaxport are Ecstacy and Elation. Below are four great Jacksonville hotel options for cruisers: one right at port, one with oceanfront access for an extra beach day, a downtown option on the Riverwalk, and a hotel close to the airport. Hotels near Jaxport Holiday Inn Express, Jacksonville – Blount IslandAddress: 10148 New Berlin Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32226 Carnival is the only cruise line that sails from Jaxport. (Outfit: Floral two-piece set) This property is one of the few choices located at the port, just 1.5 miles which is a short 5-minute drive. There are numerous locations within a 15-minute drive, including the Jacksonville Zoo and Anheuser Busch Brewery. The hotel partners with a local driver who is available to transport guests to the cruise port for $5 per person, and all guests receive free Wi-Fi and hot breakfast. Parking is free for guests during their stay, but Holiday Inn Express does not provide an extended parking option for cruisers, even at an additional cost. Book Crowne Plaza Jacksonville Airport/I-95NAddress: 14670 Duval Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32218-9429Airport hotels aren’t generally the sexiest properties, but the Crowne Plaza rates as one of the top Jacksonville hotel choices because it hits all the marks: reasonably priced, great location, and recently renovated. It also provides a free airport shuttle to guests and free Wi-Fi, as well as an outdoor heated pool. On-site breakfast is available, although it is not free. For cruisers driving in, parking is a great value; free the night of your stay and then $5 for each additional night. The property is less than 3 miles from the Jacksonville airport, close to many of the major Jacksonville attractions, and is just 15 minutes to Jaxport. Book Hampton Inn Jacksonville Beach OceanfrontAddress: 10573 Brightman Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32246-7502 Given the lack of options at Jaxport, cruisers may opt to explore Jacksonville and stay at a hotel a little further out, and this property is a great choice, as it provides an extra beach day at Jacksonville Beach before the start of your cruise vacation. Located about 30 minutes from the port, it’s close enough not to add much time to transportation to Jaxport on embarkation day. Most rooms offer private balconies with oceanfront views, and guests receive free Wi-Fi and a hot breakfast. Unlike many Florida beachfront hotels, this property does not charge a resort fee, and loungers and umbrellas are available to rent at the beach. Book Hyatt Regency Jacksonville RiverfrontAddress: 225 E Coastline Dr, Jacksonville, FL 32202-5458This property puts guests not just in downtown Jacksonville but right on the scenic Riverwalk, which is at the heart of the city’s business, entertainment, and sports districts, offering dining, entertainment, and proximity to various activities. There is no airport or port shuttle, and no free breakfast, so the perk of this property is its location and river views. Free Wi-Fi is available to all guests, and it’s located about 20 minutes from Jaxport. Book Getting to Jaxport Given that Jaxport isn’t as bustling a port as the others in Florida, shuttle service isn’t as readily available. Jaxport is about 10 miles from the Jacksonville airport, which is about a 15-25 minute drive, depending on traffic. Cruise Line Transfer: Most cruise lines offer transfer service from airport to port, but Jaxport is the exception, as Carnival does not provide this service here. Taxi Service: JAXPORT’s franchised taxi service provides taxi and shuttle service between the cruise terminal and Jacksonville Airport. Cruisers can contact the taxi service at 904- 222-2222, and call for shuttle & special needs transportation 904-338-9595, Option 2. Rideshare: When it comes to getting to port, I typically recommend using Uber, which runs $20-30 from the airport, depending on the time of day and other factors. Private Transfer: Cruisers can book their own private transfer service, which is much more convenient than cruise line transfer service or hotel transfer services, which are typically on a bus or shuttle with other cruisers. Get Transfer offers transfer service for up to three people from the airport to Jaxport starting at $37, or cruisers traveling in a larger group can book a van for up to 8 people starting at $56 or a minibus for up to 16 people starting at $110. Public Transportation: There aren’t any easily accessible public transportation options to get to JAXPORT. book transfer service Things to do Near Jacksonville

A woman and her daughter pose on a Carnival crise ship docked at Port Canaveral in Florida
Departure Ports, Hotels, Port Canaveral, United States

Port Canaveral Hotels in the Cocoa Beach Area: Shuttles & More

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Cocoa Beach Hotels Port Canaveral is a popular cruise port in Cape Canaveral, Florida, located about 45 minutes (approximately 47 miles) from the Orlando International Airport (MCO). Given its close proximity to the theme park capital of the world, some travelers choose to drive or fly in 1-2 days before their cruise to stay at a hotel in Orlando and enjoy the area’s many attractions, but others prefer a property that is close to Port Canaveral, like these hotels, many of which offer shuttle service to port. If you choose to stay near the port, you can opt for an affordable hotel just minutes from port and with shuttle service, and I detail my top picks here. If you’re a “sand and sun” type who wants to add on an extra beach day before your cruise, I recommend a beachfront hotel in nearby Cocoa Beach, just about 15 minutes from Port Canaveral and 20 minute from Kennedy Space Center. Below are my top recommendations. Beachfront Hotels in Cocoa Beach Hampton Inn Cocoa Beach/Cape CanaveralAddress: 3425 N Atlantic Ave, Cocoa Beach, FL, 32931The Hampton Inn is “beachside”, meaning it’s a short walk to Cocoa Beach, and also in close proximity to restaurants and shops such as Ron Jon Surf Shop. Vendors at the beach rent umbrellas, chairs, and boogie boards to travelers, and guests can use towels from the pool area to take and use at the beach. The property offers free Wi-Fi and complimentary breakfast, and shuttle service to and from Port Canaveral is available at a cost of $10 per person or $16 per person round trip (scheduled in advance or at check-in). An Uber, however, may be a more affordable and convenient option. Parking is $12 for guests overnight for their stay, and additional parking beyond the stay is $15 per night. Hampton Inn does offer “Park and Cruise For Two” bundled option, which includes shuttle service for two and parking for up to 7 nights built into the room rate, but this is likely only cost-effective for longer 6-7 night cruises. Best Western Cocoa BeachAddress: 5600 N Atlantic Ave, Cocoa Beach, FL, 32931This property is well regarded by cruisers for its value, cleanliness, and proximity to Cocoa Beach (just a short four-minute walk), although beach towels are not provided. Guests enjoy free Wi-Fi and hot breakfast, and shuttle service to port is available for $10 per person each way. Shuttles run 10:30 am, 11:30 am, and 12:30 pm, and guests schedule this upon check-in. Again, I urge cruisers to check Uber rates, which may be more affordable and convenient. Parking is available for $12 per night. Parking is $10 per night and Best Western offers a “Stay and Cruise” rate. Like some other hotels near cruise ports, this rate offers cruisers a bundled option, including the overnight stay, along with round trip shuttle to port for two, and parking. The distinction here is that there is no limitation to the number of nights, making this an attractive option for travelers embarking on a lengthy cruise. Beachside Hotel & SuitesAddress: 3901 N Atlantic Ave, Cocoa Beach, FL, 32931The standout feature of Beachside Hotel is its close proximity to Cocoa Beach, located just 315 feet behind the hotel, and its impressive pool area, which features a lazy river. Guests enjoy free Wi-Fi and hot breakfast and complimentary use of beach chairs, umbrellas, bikes, and surfboards, although these are limited in supply each day and are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Guests may also use the hotel’s pool towels at the beach. As for shuttle service, Beachside offers a “Fly, Snooze & Cruise” transportation package, which can be purchased individually at $80 per person and includes for two people the following: transportation from MCO to the hotel, shuttle to the port and at disembarkation return transportation back to MCO from the cruise port. Parking is free on the first night for cruisers traveling by car, and then $10 per additional night. The shuttle each way to Port Canaveral is $10 per person. Getting to Port Canaveral from the Airport There are over 30 Cocoa Beach hotels, but these consistently rank among the top choices for travelers cruising out of Port Canaveral. When it comes to getting to these properties from the MCO airport, there are four main options. To view these options, and see the pricing for each of them, is check out my post here. Things to Do Near Cocoa Beach Book Your Cocoa Beach Hotel Now Best Port Canaveral Hotels for Cruisers

Carnival Elation docked at Port Canaveral in Florida
Departure Ports, Hotels, Port Canaveral, United States

Affordable Hotels Near Port Canaveral with Shuttles, Parking & More

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Hotels Near Port Canaveral This is one of the busiest cruise ports in the world, so many cruisers seek out Port Canaveral hotels, which is about 47 miles from the Orlando International Airport (MCO) in Florida, a 45-minute to one-hour drive. Some cruisers opt to come into the area a day or two early and stay in Orlando to enjoy the many theme parks and attractions there, but others prefer a hotel option that is close to Port Canaveral, in the city of Cape Canaveral, and that offers shuttle service to port (although this may come at a cost). My recommendations on transfer options are at the bottom of this post. Cruisers typically seek out affordable hotels in Cape Canaveral, but this is a bustling area — especially during peak cruise season — which can drive up prices, making “affordable” a relative term. Not only are these hotels near Port Canaveral, but they’re also just about 15 minutes from Cocoa Beach and 20 minutes from Kennedy Space Center. If you prefer a beachfront hotel, check out this post. But if you’re searching for an affordable hotel near Cape Canaveral with a shuttle to the port, read on. Affordable Port Canaveral Hotels Country Inn & Suites at Port CanaveralAddress: 9009 Astronaut Blvd., Cape Canaveral, FL 32920This property is one of the top-rated hotels by cruisers because it’s the closest to port, just half a mile, and provides a “Park and Stay” bundled package, including room, parking, and shuttle to port for cruisers who drive in and need parking during their cruise. Country Inn offers guests free Wi-Fi and hot breakfast, and the shuttle to Port Canaveral for guests staying on a non-“Park and Stay” rate is $5 per person. An Uber from Country Inn to Port Canaveral cruise port in comparison, however, is only around $9, so that may be a better, more convenient option. Radisson Resort at PortAddress: 8701 Astronaut Blvd., Cape Canaveral, FL 32920This property is less than two miles, a five-minute drive, from Port Canaveral and receives high marks from cruisers due to its location to port. This is a popular choice among families because of its pool area, including a designated kiddie pool, and it offers free Wi-Fi, although breakfast is not included. Radisson offers a shuttle to Port Canaveral at the cost of $6 per person, which is reserved at check-in, and shuttle service to and from MCO airport is $28 per person each way and must be reserved 48 hours in advance. However, an Uber is likely a more affordable and convenient option. Parking is available for $12 per night. Hampton Inn & Suites Cape CanaveralAddress: 9004 Astronaut Blvd., Cape Canaveral, FL 32920Just one mile from the port is Hampton Inn, which is highly regarded by cruisers for its proximity to the port, cleanliness, and value. Guests here enjoy free Wi-Fi and hot breakfast, and the shuttle to the port is reserved at check-in, running 10:30 and 11:45 am daily at a cost of $10 per person. At just around a $9 fare from hotel to port, however, Uber is likely a better option. Hampton Inn offers parking, but at a high cost of $25 per day, parking at the port is a much more affordable and convenient option. Titusville Hotel Option Casa Coquina del Mar in TitusvilleAddress: 4010 Coquina Avenue, Titusville, FL, 32780If you’re looking for more of an “experience”, than just a place to lay your head pre-cruise, you might want to consider Casa Coquina del Mar in Titusville. This charming bed and breakfast is a five-minute drive to Enchanted Forest Sanctuary and the United States Astronaut Hall of Fame, and 15 minutes from port and the Kennedy Space Center. Getting to Port Canaveral from the Airport These are all great hotels in Cape Canaveral, which are consistently highly ranked by cruisers sailing from Port Canaveral, but I advise folks not to book them (or any property) because of the fact that these hotels offer a shuttle to the cruise port. Instead, consider convenience, hotel ratings, location, and other amenities when deciding. There are four main options for cruisers to get to Port Canaveral from MCO airport, and all of these choices – and their pricing – is detailed in my post here. When you compare pricing, you may find that the hotel shuttle service is not the best option. Things to Do Near Port Canaveral Book Your Port Canaveral Hotel Now Best Port Canaveral Hotels for Cruisers

Boats docked at Port Miami in Florida, with skyscrapers seen in the background, as photographed from a cruise ship at port.
Departure Ports, Miami, United States

What You Need to Know about the Miami Cruise Port: Parking, Hotels, Schedule & More

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About Port Miami The Miami cruise port is officially named “Port Miami” and its one of the world’s largest. Some refer to it as the “Cruise Capital of the World”. Because of its size, 518 acres in total, thousands of cruisers navigate through this port daily, and it contains multiple terminals, each designated with a letter. It can get confusing, though, because some letters are missing. The port has terminals A-G, then J and K, and V. Cruisers can determine their departure terminal by consulting their cruise documents provided by the cruise line. Still, upon arrival at the port, signage will indicate where each cruise ship is docked. The address of the Miami cruise port is 1015 North America Way, Miami, FL, 33132. Getting to Port Port Miami is only about 8 miles from MIA (Miami International Airport), which is approximately a 20-30 minute drive, depending upon Miami traffic, which is notoriously congested. Cruisers flying to Port Miami should also search for flights to Fort Lauderdale, as the Miami cruise port to FLL distance is only about 26 miles, or a 45-60 minute drive, depending upon traffic. There sometimes can be a substantial difference in airfare pricing between FLL and MIA, and either airport puts cruisers close to Port Everglades. Here are the best options to get from Miami airport to Port Miami. Best Miami Hotels for Cruisers This is an involved topic, so I created a separate post detailing the best Miami hotels near the cruise port with a shuttle, and a dedicated post highlighting top Miami hotels with beachfront access. Port Miami Parking Port Miami has ample parking for cruisers, with multi-level garage and surface parking lots on the port’s north side available for cruisers departing from all terminals, except for J & K. Cruisers departing from terminals J & K are advised to park on the south side. Consult the Miami cruise port map to see exactly where each is located. Miami cruise port parking is around $22 per day (overnight) and rates and other details can be found on the Port Miami website. Some nearby Miami hotels offer “park and stay” packages, including transportation from hotel to cruise port. While you can park your car at Port Miami, budget-conscious cruisers may seek out an offsite parking option that shuttles cruisers from their parking location to the cruise port. Airport Parking Reservations provides this service for Port Miami cruisers at a lower cost of approximately $10-18 per day. Port Schedule For a Miami cruise port schedule, visit Cruisemapper. Clothes featured in photo: Women’s 3-Piece Floral Set

A colorful lifeguard stand at Las Olas Beach in Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Departure Ports, Hotels, Port Everglades, United States

Best Fort Lauderdale Beach Hotels for a Pre-Cruise Stay

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When cruising out of Port Miami and Port Everglades, some cruisers may opt to fly into Fort Lauderdale (FLL) airport, which can provide the opportunity to add an additional beach day before the start of a cruise. With so many options in Fort Lauderdale, the choice can be overwhelming. For those seeking an affordable pre-cruise option in the area, here are my suggestions, but for beachfront “splurge” options, keep reading. But first, like my recommendations for Miami area beachfront hotels, I do not recommend staying at a beach hotel in March and April, as this is “spring break season” and the beaches are filled to the brim with rowdy students. Also, like Miami, the Fort Lauderdale area is generally more expensive than other cities with ports of call, and with beachside or beachfront hotels, you may also have to pay resort fees. Best Fort Lauderdale Beach Hotels Before a Cruise W Fort Lauderdale401 North Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, FL, 33304This Marriott property is a luxury hotel with beachside access, meaning guests must cross the street to access the beach. This is a small inconvenience, though, because once there, guests have access to complimentary loungers, umbrellas, and towels, and there are numerous restaurants – some with live music – in close proximity to the hotel. It’s only about 13-15 minutes from the port, so getting there via Uber is quick and affordable. The resort fee is $45 per night and includes other amenities such as use of bicycles and yoga classes. Lago Mar Beach Club & Resort Address: 1700 South Ocean Lane, Fort Lauderdale, FL, 33316This property is less than five miles from the port and is consistently rated as one of the best hotels in Fort Lauderdale, although its luxury and high quality come at a price, as Lago Mar is also one of the pricier hotel options in the area. Cruisers willing to splurge, however, will likely find an amazing experience here, with top-notch service and unparalleled cleanliness. Noted for its family-friendly and quiet vibe, this hotel offers easy access to 500 feet of private beach, along with complimentary towels and beach chairs (although umbrellas come at a cost), and no additional resort fees. Hotel Maren Fort Lauderdale BeachAddress: 525 S. Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316This property has the look and feel of a boutique hotel, but it’s part of the Hilton Curio Collection. This Fort Lauderdale hotel is highly rated, and moderately priced compared to other beachfront hotel options. Located directly across the street from Las Olas Beach, Hotel Maren is a short walk from several bars and restaurants. The daily resort fee of $45 covers guest access to beach chairs, towels, yoga class, Wi-Fi access, and daily signature drink, although umbrellas are an additional rental cost. This hotel is located about six miles from the port. Getting to Port Everglades There are many great Fort Lauderdale beach hotel options, but these are my top three recommendations based on consideration of cost, location, and guest ratings, and proximity to the beach. When it comes to getting to the port area (where these properties are generally located) from the Fort Lauderdale airport, there are four main options. To view these options, and see the pricing for each of them, check out my Port Everglades post. To get from these hotels to Port Everglades, private transfer service through Get Transfer starts at $31 for up to three people, $56 for a van that fits up to 8 people, and $64 for a minivan that accommodates up to 16 passengers. Comparatively, an Uber for up to four people costs around $10-15, plus tip. Things to do Near Fort Lauderdale Book Your Fort Lauderdale Hotel Now Best Port Everglades Hotels for Cruisers

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